The one-bed property in Pimlico, central London, measures a mere nine square metres and is narrower than a tube carriageExterior of the flatThe Central London flat is beautiful on the outside(Image: Jam Press/Auction House London)

A London flat which went on the market for £70,000 has been sold at auction for just £52,000, despite being situated in a highly sought-after area on Cumberland Street in Pimlico. The studio flat is set in a classic white building – but there’s a snag.

At just nine square metres, the interior offers rather tight living quarters. Indeed, floor plan measurements of 2.06m x 3.25m reveal it’s actually smaller than the Tube carriages at Pimlico underground station, which is just a short walk away.

Just two photographs were included in the property listing, showing a main living area filled by a cushioned seating section, storage cupboards and a wall-mounted television. A few steps lead up to a compact kitchen space featuring a sink and cabinets, though it’s uncertain whether there’s an oven or hob, reports the Mirror.

 Inside the flatThe listing shows the tight living space(Image: Jam Press/Auction House London)

One bed and a fitted shower are also referenced but not displayed in images. The ‘apartment’ sits on the ground floor of a five-storey mid-terrace building, according to Luxury Property News.

The property description, handled by Auction House London, states: “The property is situated in the highly sought out area of Westminster. The open spaces of Warwick Square are within easy reach. Transport links are provided by Pimlico underground station (Victoria line) and Victoria rail station.”

People sitting outside of coffee shop at Wilton Road, Pimlico The lucky owner would live in stylish Pimlico (Image: Alla Tsyganova via Getty Images)

The listing was later updated to confirm that the property sold for £52,000 at auction. However, there’s another complication. It turns out that the property lacks planning permission for residential use.

As a result, potential buyers might be restricted in making significant alterations to the property. The listing further states: “We understand that the property does not currently have planning permission for residential use.

“Please refer to the legal pack for further information. Buyers should rely on their own enquiries.”