First batch of land plots go to auction on July 9
The Calthorpe Estate, a major landowner in Birmingham, has announced it will sell off parcels of residential land in Edgbaston over the next couple of years. The first seven plots will go under the hammer at 8.30am on July 9, with guide prices ranging from £1,000 to £75,000.
Local concerns over future of the area
Local councillors Deidre Alden and Matt Bennett expressed worries for residents' future. They said the sale would include freeholds on flats retained by the estate and communal land including roads. The move follows a major review by the estate, which has historically controlled much of the Edgbaston area.
Details of the seven plots
The auction, handled by agents Bond and Wolfe, includes the following properties:
- Hampshire Drive – guide price £75,000 (already bought by residents). The site extends to approximately 5.193 acres and is described as a substantial strategic freehold parcel with development potential, subject to consents.
- Anstruther Road – guide price £69,000. A rectangular freehold parcel of land fronting Greville Drive, considered suitable for a variety of uses subject to planning consent.
- Barlows Road and Somerset Road – guide price £1,000. A parcel of land fronting the roundabout at the junction of these roads in a sought-after residential location.
- Plot 1 Greville Drive – guide price £2,000. A rectangular shaped parcel fronting Greville Drive, suitable for a variety of uses subject to consent.
- Plot J Greville Drive – guide price £5,000. An irregular shaped corner parcel on Greville Drive, suitable for a variety of uses subject to consent.
- Wellington Road – guide price £5,000. A rectangular plot fronting Wellington Road, suitable for a variety of uses subject to consent.
- Sir Harry's Road – guide price £5,000. A vacant corner plot at the junction of Sir Harry's Road and Wellington Road, suitable for a variety of uses subject to consent.
Impact on the community
The sale has raised concerns among locals about the potential loss of communal spaces and increased development in the area. Councillors Alden and Bennett have urged residents to stay informed and participate in any planning consultations that may arise from the sales. The Calthorpe Estate has not commented on the long-term plans for the remaining land.
