Former independent prep school goes to auction
EDDISONS has been appointed to handle the disposal of the former Malsis School and all its tangible assets.
The prep-school in Cross Hills, near Skipton, closed its doors for the final time at the end of last year after the failure of a proposed merger with Giggleswick School.
The main school building is a Grade II Listed former country estate which was converted into a school in 1920. It boasts among its former pupils The Full Monty and Slumdog Millionaire screenplay writer Simon Beaufoy and England cricket’s current chairman of selectors James Whitaker.
The school occupies a campus of around 32 acres including playing fields, a small golf course and a lake, as well as various out buildings.
John Padgett, head of agency at chartered surveyors Eddisons says the firm is fully committed to finding an appropriate buyer for the site. “This is a wonderful property within extensive grounds,” he said. “We will be working as hard as we can to find a buyer who will be sympathetic to its history and respectful of the wishes of the local community. A number of interests have already been registered.
“Any future alternative uses will be subject to planning and will need to be sensitive to the property’s setting. It will be important however to secure a viable and economic use to protect the health of these important buildings.”
Eddisons is also handling the disposal of all tangible assets through its online auction platform.
A total of 1400 lots have been catalogued including antiques, trophies and two grand pianos. There is also a range of ground maintenance and commercial catering equipment, stage props, costumes and assorted items of school memorabilia.
Jason Pinder, director of machinery and business assets at Eddisons said: “Whilst it is very sad to see the closure of such a well-respected school, the history and variety of lots should produce a strong realisation for the creditors.”
