They offer the chance to ‘build something special’ for a ‘modest’ price
One of the barns on the eco development(Image: Hollis Morgan)
Three barns in a well-known eco community in Bristol are set to go under the hammer at auction. The barns sit on the grounds of Bridge Farm, a community-led housing project just off the M32, described as a “haven” for those who love the environment.
Planning permission has been approved to convert the barns in Stapleton into two one-bedroom houses and a one-bedroom house.
The two larger barns have a starting guide price of £25,000, while the smallest of the three starts at £20,000. Andrew Morgan MBE, director of auctioneer Hollis Morgan, said the barns are a great opportunity for anyone looking for something a little different.
“Stone barns, cobbles and a location on the edge of a 3.5-acre site for eco dwellings in Stapleton,” he said. “An opportunity to create country-style living in an urban village on the outskirts of Bristol.”
Housing plans were submitted in March 2023 for Bridge Farm, led by Bridge Farm owners Ashley Vale Action Group (AVAG), a group of residents. Last year a dilapidated farmhouse on the site was also put up for sale to help fund their vision for the eco-community.
The community at Bridge Farm say the barns are part of their overall vision of restoring old buildings to create affordable places to live. “Old buildings are being restored for habitation and new buildings are being envisioned for truly affordable self-build housing,” their website states.
The M32 looking towards the existing Bridge Farm Community(Image: Google Maps)
“The earth is being slowly and sensitively worked, with trees, flowers, vegetables, fruit and animals working alongside wildlife corridors.”
Bridge Farm came into community ownership in 2018, and the barns are part of the wider proposed development. Mr Morgan said the “modest” prices for the three barns mean they are perfect for people who wante to build their own home without spending a fortune.
“Everybody loves a barn and with planning permission for two one-bedroom houses and one two- bedroom house, these three modestly-priced lots will give purchasers with a modest budget the chance to build something special,” he said. “Exciting opportunities.”
The barns are available to buy as a leasehold, with the not-for-profit community organisation holding the freehold. Their ownership is described on the property listings as being “integral to the wellbeing of the Bridge Farm Community as a whole”.
The live online auction for the barns is at 5.30pm on Wednesday, September 17. The registration deadline for any interested bidders is 4pm on the Monday before.