**137-foot Chimney from World Heritage Site Listed for Sale at £5K**
An extraordinary opportunity has arisen with the listing of a 137-foot chimney from an industrial site in Milford, Derbyshire. Situated within the prestigious Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, the chimney, standing at just under 42 metres tall and 13 feet wide, is being offered for sale at a mere £5,000. The sellers, SDL Auctions, have labeled it as a unique chance to own a piece of history dating back to the 18th-century Industrial Revolution. The chimney is suggested to have potential as a distinctive home, office, or studio, with possibilities for generating rental income through advertisements or telecom networks.
However, the listing has stirred up a mix of reactions among viewers and potential buyers due to the absence of floorplans or interior images of the structure. Some concerns have been raised about the potential maintenance costs associated with the historical building, while others question the feasibility of obtaining planning permission given its Grade II listed status. Despite these uncertainties, there is excitement surrounding the chimney, with suggestions for it to be a one-of-a-kind Grand Designs project or a lucrative investment as a 5G or mobile phone mast.
Andrew Parker, an auctioneer and partner at SDL Property Auctions, expressed enthusiasm about this unusual property, stating that it has already captured the interest of industrial history enthusiasts eager to own a piece of heritage. The chimney, now surplus to requirements following the redevelopment of surrounding mill buildings, will be auctioned to the highest bidder on January 30, with remote bidding options available. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their due diligence, including exploring any planning considerations, before participating in the auction process.
This Grade II-listed structure, located near the A6, is part of the world’s earliest mechanized industrial cotton factories established along the River Derwent, contributing to the area’s designation as a World Heritage Site. The listing of this iconic chimney has prompted diverse opinions, with some viewing it as a unique investment opportunity with substantial potential for future returns, while others are wary of the associated liabilities and challenges.
Participants in online discussions have debated the practicalities and risks of acquiring and utilising the chimney, with contrasting views on its suitability for conversion and commercial purposes. Despite the uncertainties, there is a sense of intrigue and curiosity surrounding the fate of this historical landmark post-auction. Whether purchased for preservation, renovation, or innovative repurposing, the 137-foot chimney represents a rare chance to own a tangible piece of the region’s industrial legacy.
In conclusion, the upcoming auction of the 137-foot chimney in Milford offers a captivating glimpse into the intersection of history, architecture, and modern-day innovation. As potential buyers weigh the possibilities and challenges associated with this unique property, the unfolding narrative of its sale and future use serves as a testament to the enduring allure of heritage structures in contemporary real estate markets.