A County Durham hall has gone up for sale after the council who currently own it agreed to sell the site earlier this month.
Grade II listed Shotton Hall in Peterlee is currently on the sale market with Pattinsons Commercial in Wallsend following the decision from Peterlee Town Council to part with the valuable asset.
According to a review of the viability of the council retaining ownership carried out in 2023, it concluded that this would "not be possible without major investment, which the council couldn’t afford".
Shotton Hall, which dates back to 1760, is currently used as a historical site to visit and also holds meetings for Peterlee Town Council.
Over the past 12 months the council has been working with the Plunkett Foundation, specialists in developing and supporting community businesses, to consult and engage with residents to try to identify alternative community uses that would retain public ownership of the building.
However, the council has said that this has not come to a "suitable and sustainable conclusion".
Alongside the review, the council has said that the historic building has reached a point where significant repairs are required, which the council can't sustain without compromising other services and obligations it has.
The listing on Pattinsons Commercial said: "A rare opportunity to acquire a distinguished mid-18th Century country house, beautifully situated in a prime location with stunning surroundings.
"Shotton Hall offering a development opportunity, combining historic charm with significant development potential.
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"Located in East Durham, with excellent access to major cities, the Grade II Protected Building is set within 17.5 acres of landscaped gardens and picturesque grounds.
"Its proximity to a new busy retail complex and stunning grounds, ideal for events and photography, make it a prime prospect for investors seeking refurbishment or redevelopment opportunities."
The sale of the building is been carried out by tender, with Pattinsons adding: "Align Chartered Surveyors and Pattinsons are inviting offers by way of “informal sealed tenders” with submissions due by 1pm on Tuesday, October 15, 2024."
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