A grand period house in Reading, reduced to a shell by devastating storms and a subsequent fire, has been sold for a staggering £600,000 despite its ruined state.
A Shell of Its Former Self
The large property, located on West End Road in Mortimer Common, was left barely standing. The majority of its roof and the entire top floor were completely obliterated, leaving piles of debris and splintered timbers scattered across the site.
With the interior now largely exposed to the elements, the existing home on the 0.29-acre plot has been deemed to require a complete rebuild. The plot boasts a desirable position, backing onto a historic church.
Prime Location and Development Potential
The listing, managed by David Cliff, emphasised the location's fantastic potential. It highlighted easy access to local shops, schools, and Mortimer Station, offering a blend of village charm with everyday convenience.
The site was marketed as a rare opportunity for developers or individuals to secure a plot in an established and desirable area. The generous land size presents a chance for a bespoke replacement dwelling or a small residential scheme, subject to obtaining the necessary planning permission.
Strict Viewing Conditions
Due to significant safety concerns arising from the extensive damage, potential buyers were advised that site visits were strictly by appointment only. Crucially, no internal access to the unstable structure was permitted under any circumstances.
The sale underscores the immense value placed on land in prime locations within the UK, where the cost of the plot can far exceed the value of any damaged structure upon it.