Bath’s £10m Terrace For Sale

Somerset Place, a complete crescent of Georgian houses in Bath?s prime residential area is up for sale, following current owner Bath Spa University's decision to sell. The Grade 1 listed property is believed to be the largest crescent of Georgian terraced houses in single ownership in Europe and is expected to fetch in excess of £10 million. Situated on Landsdown Hill to the north of the city centre, Somerset Place consists of 16 three and four storey houses and enjoys spectacular views over the city to the hills beyond. A large garden to the front of the crescent is also included in the sale.

The property was designed by respected architect John Eveleigh and built in 1790 and retains many original features. Unfortunately Eveleigh?s project coincided with the end of Bath?s development boom and funds ran out before it was completed. The crescent was eventually finished in 1820 but without houses 1-4 thus the first house in Somerset Place is number 5. Nearby are John Wood I?s masterpiece The Circus and his son John Wood II?s famous Royal Crescent. For many years Somerset Place has been used to house university faculties and accommodate students but Bath Spa University feels it is no longer suitable for a modern university. Proceeds from the sale will be used towards the development of a new campus. ?These buildings, although beautiful in themselves, are really not suitable for the University?s future needs and are very expensive to maintain? explained Professor Frank Morgan, Vice Chancellor of Bath Spa University.

Although Jane Austen once complained about the glare from Bath?s buildings giving her a headache, Somerset Place is a dream project for property developers. Selling agents Savills dubs the sale a ?unique residential development opportunity? and expects it to generate considerable interest locally and internationally. The freehold site is being offered for sale by informal tender and unconditional offers are invited by the 15 th November 2005. The University intends to remain in occupation until at least 30th September 2007.