Luxury homes to rise from Victorian reservoir PDF Print
A redundant Victorian underground reservoir owned by Wessex Water is being released on to the market with planning permission for conversion into six dwellings.

Underground reservoir

Planning permission has already been granted for the conversion of the reservoir at Wembdon, near Bridgwater, Somerset, into six substantial two-storey dwellings using the original brick structure below ground. To maximise light, the houses will be built around a large open courtyard, cut out of the existing structure. The reservoir is contained within a raised mound and enjoys an elevated position, with the first floor offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Bristol Channel. Large first floor balconies look out onto the private courtyard.

The reservoir and associated pump house is located on an area of land which extends to 0.56 hectares (1.38 acres). The planned six dwellings cover a total area of 1,492 sq m (16,060 sq ft). Four of the houses are larger in size and comprise four bedrooms, two of which are en-suite, with a dining area, lounge, kitchen, bathroom, utility room, study and cloakroom. Two smaller dwellings are of similar layout but with three en-suite bathrooms. Planning permission has also been granted for the construction of new driveways, parking areas and garages for the houses.

Scott Winnard, partner at property consultancy Bruton Knowles in Gloucester, which is marketing the property on behalf of Wessex Water, comments, “This sale is incredibly rare and offers a excellent opportunity to buy a unique and unusual development in an attractive rural location. We are anticipating enquiries from a diverse range of parties who can see the potential in developing and creating this one-off residential scheme.”

“Situated on the edge of Wembdon, the site enjoys a very rural outlook, yet is only one mile from Bridgwater and 13 miles from Taunton. Its proximity to Bristol is also a real advantage.”

Wembdon is close to junction 23 and 24 of the M5 which provide easy access to Bristol (35 miles) and Taunton (12 miles). Taunton station has direct rail links to London Paddington.  The site is accessed via the B3339, Sandford Hill, leading to Wembdon Village.

Sale is by informal tender and offers should be sent to Bruton Knowles by 21 December 2005. Viewing will take place on three days: Wednesday 23 November (10am-12.30pm), Wednesday 30 November (10am-12.30pm), Wednesday 7 December (10am-12.30pm).

An information pack incorporating details on planning, design, survey date, services and legal documentation is available on request from Bruton Knowles or click here to view further details about the property.

Further details can be obtained by contacting Scott Winnard or Robert Anthony at Bruton Knowles on 0845 200 6489 or email
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