Lancashire landmark up for grabs in online property auction

An historic former Lancashire council building is going under the hammer next month, with bids invited from September 20, by property auction house Pugh.

Gothic House, in Accrington, has been Lancashire County Council’s education offices, and a tourist information centre.

In its early days the building was also the residence of local flamboyant character, solicitor Charles ‘Torney’ Hall.

In 2010, the 19th century landmark was considered to be one of the district’s most iconic landmarks in a vote by Accrington Observer readers to choose a building to feature in the paper’s masthead and represent the borough.

Pugh managing director, Paul Thompson, said: “Due to its historic past, Gothic House is a very well known iconic building in the district and we’re expecting a great deal of interest in it.

“It’s well placed for Accrington’s amenities and offers exciting opportunities for potential future development, subject to any buyer gaining the necessary planning consents.”

The 2,300 sq ft detached period office building would be suitable for continuing office use or alternative uses or redevelopment.

Gothic House is located at the junction of St James Street and Cannon Street, opposite St James’s Church and a short distance from Accrington Town Hall and town centre. Accrington Station is nearby, and the M65 motorway is within easy reach.

There is parking to the side and rear of the property for approximately eight vehicles, together with a grassed area.

Bidding for lots in Pugh’s online auction opens on Tuesday, September 20, and closes the following day.