Birmingham City Council generated nearly £500,000 from a series of property sales at a Bond Wolfe auction, though two sites failed to sell and a third was withdrawn. The most lucrative sale was a building occupied by a Chinese takeaway at 9 Harborne Park Road, which fetched £316,000, well above its £250,000 guide price. Another retail property at 11 Harborne Park Road sold for £170,000, exceeding its £150,000 asking price.
Harborne Properties Attract Strong Bids
The two-storey building at 9 Harborne Park Road, which includes a residential flat on the first floor and a forecourt, currently generates a gross income of £12,250 per annum. The single-storey retail unit at 11 Harborne Park Road, extending to approximately 42 square metres (452 square feet), brings in £3,500 per year in rent.
However, a third Harborne property at 13 Harborne Park Road, a former pet shop, failed to reach its £150,000 guide price and remained unsold. The single-storey retail unit stands flush to the pavement on the busy road.
Skilts School Fails to Find Buyer
One of the most high-profile lots was Skilts School on Gorcott Hill in Beoley, near Redditch, which was listed for more than £1.4 million. The former special school, operated by Birmingham City Council, provided education and accommodation for primary-aged children with emotional, social and behavioural difficulties. The site includes a manager's house, two residential blocks, and a gym block, offering potential for redevelopment subject to planning permission. Despite its size and potential, the property did not sell and may reappear at a future auction.
Sparkhill Industrial Unit Withdrawn
An industrial unit at 8-11 Alfred Road in Sparkhill was withdrawn from the auction. The two-storey freehold property, currently used for mixed manufacturing and office space, is let on a full repairing and insuring basis for 20 years from July 18, 2025, at an annual rent of £19,750, with rent reviews every five years. The site extends to approximately 749 square metres (8,062 square feet).
The council's sales generated a total of £486,000 from the two successful lots, providing a boost to its finances. No further details were provided on future auction dates for the unsold properties.
