A beachside toilet block that went on the market last month has now sold for much more than its initial guide price. In April, Landwood Property Auctions put the old public convenience on the market with a price tag of £7,500.
Despite its not-so-luxurious use, 183 keen buyers saw potential in the property and forced the price up at the auction - and it eventually for a surprising £65,000. The toilet block is said to boast 'some of the best views in Britain' with its location set in the village of Allonby on the northwest coast of Cumbria.
The coastal spot looks out onto the Solway Estuary with views of the Scotland's Southern Uplands stretching beyond. Spanning 33 square metres, the facility sits in a popular tourist hotspot which boasts three caravan and camping parks as well as numerous holiday cottages.
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The property is situated on a public car park that lies adjacent to a long, sandy beach in a designated 'Area of Outstanding Beauty'. As it is currently boarded up, internal viewings were not possible and any purchaser had to factor in the need to strip the entire place out if required.
The property auctioneer, who sold the toilet block on behalf of Allerdale Borough Council, listed the building as great opportunity with the potential to enjoy 'a number of new uses' in the future.
Subject to obtaining the necessary planning permission, the block can now be made into whatever the owner sees fit - such as an ice cream parlour or café - and the auctioneer says they are looking forward to seeing what the buyer does with their new property.
James Ashworth, director at Landwood Property Auctions, said: "After 183 bids, Allonby's beachside toilet block was purchased at our online auction for £65,000 - £57,500 above the opening bid of £7,500.
"This is a great result, but not overly surprising, as when you sell a lot via an online auction you can reach a huge audience of potential bidders. Plus, our team of experts at Landwood Property Auctions can work to increase competition and achieve better sales rates at higher prices for our clients."
"The Allonby toilet block is also a very attractive investment, as its setting on the coast of Cumbria in a designated Area of Oustanding Beauty makes it prime location real estate, and the popular tourist destination gives it endless possibilities for potential uses - such as an ice cream parlour or a café," James added.
"We look forward to seeing what the buyer does with their new property."
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