A PLOT of land in Saltford has been sold at public auction for nearly £165,000 over its guide price.
The site at The Shallows had previously been on the market with a guide price of £60,000 to £80,000. The lot was described as an irregularly shaped parcel of land next to the river Avon. In total, it extends to 1.67 acres, with about 125 metres of river frontage and riparian right.
City & Rural Property Auctions, which sold the land, said the site had become largely overgrown but offered potential for a variety of different uses. The river frontage could be ideal for moorings, with potential for four to five boats, subject to the necessary consents. There is a footpath by prescription that connects to the Bristol Bath Railway Path.
Stephen Morris, auctioneer for City & Rural, said: “With the amount of interest shown prior to the auction, we were confident of exceeding the guide price, but no one had foreseen the eventual hammer price.
“With an immediate opening bid of £80,000, a number of bidders took part until we were left with only two competitive bidders hoping to secure the land. Auction is a transparent and inclusive method of sale, and we thank all those that took part on the day.”
When asked about the winning bidder, the auctioneer was unable to confirm details but said: “We wish them well with their purchase for the future.”
City & Rural said that, while popular TV shows like Homes Under the Hammer have placed a spotlight on buying houses at auction, it looks as if land is becoming more of a rarity, underlining its importance and desirability to a local community such as Saltford.
City & Rural are due to host their next auction on April 4 and can be contacted on 01179 464949 for entries.
Saltford riverside plot sparks bidding battle
