Little Stratford House in Watford could sell at auction for £1m

Little Stratford House in Langley Road is set to go under the hammer at Network Auctions on March 18 with a guide price of £950,000 to £1m.

A couple of years ago, plans were submitted to partly demolish the home, refurbish it, and then extend it to create a building of five flats.

But a planning officer at Watford Borough Council refused the scheme for a number of reasons, including because it would have involved the loss of an historic garage.

The green garage was built by urban planner Max Lock in the 1930s and is believed to be one of the few remaining examples of his work.

Read more: Plans to convert and extend 'historic' home refused

This green garage would have been demolished has plans in 2019 been passed. Credit: Network Auctions

Since then, planning permission has been secured to extend the property, with the house - in desperate need of renovation - now listed for sale with Network Auctions.

Auctioneer, Tony Limbrick, said: "This is an enviable opportunity to create a unique family home of style and character in this sought after location.

"We understand the house is locally listed as a property of architectural and historical interest. The plans for the property, granted by Watford Borough Council, allow a new owner to create a two storey rear extension to allow for two more additional reception rooms and a five bedroom, three-bathroom layout to the first floor.

"Planning is also pending for an additional 450 sq. ft. ground floor annex to the rear and a carriage driveway."

Inside Little Stratford House. Credit: Network Auctions

The house is in need of modernising. Credit: Network Auctions

The house is being sold at a guide price of up to £1m. Credit: Network Auctions

Mr Limbrick added: "This property is brimming with potential and will be a stunning home which continues to contribute to the character of the location.

"The distinctive crescent shaped double garage will be retained for future generations to enjoy."

The garden of Little Stratford House has become overgrown. Credit: Network Auctions

Little Stratford House. Credit: Network Auctions

Nascot councillor Mark Hofman campaigned to save the green garage at Little Stratford House and he has welcomed the news that the garage will be retained.

He said: "Residents, councillors, and people interested in preserving Max Lock's connection to the town will be pleased with the new proposals.

"I hope that if Little Stratford House does sell at auction, the new owners will see through with the plans and restore the property to its former glory.

"With the right investment I'm sure it will once again be a real asset to the Nascot village conservation area."

Cllr Hofman outside Little Stratford House in 2019