Plymouth’s historic Pounds House, located in Central Park, is set to become the latest property to be sold by the city council as part of its ongoing effort to raise funds. The 200-year-old Grade II listed mansion will be auctioned in the coming months.

The Plymouth City Council, which owns the building, announced that the property requires significant investment and has struggled to find a suitable use for it despite investing nearly £500,000 in the property since 2020. The council now hopes to find a ‘sympathetic new owner’ who can restore and revive the building.

Cllr Chris Penberthy, the council’s cabinet member responsible for assets, stated: “We have not identified a council use for the building that would warrant large-scale investment and need to focus our efforts elsewhere. It is unfortunate, but we need to be pragmatic and offer this as an opportunity for others to seize. We hope this building will be loved for the long term.”

The sale of Pounds House follows several other recent sales by the council as it seeks to raise funds for urban projects, including over £8 million for the Armada Way regeneration project. Last year, the council sold the register office on the Hoe for £827,000 and in January, it listed the 16th-century Merchant’s House for sale. The council is also selling the Midland House office block and has vacated the Windsor House office development to make room for NHS services.

In addition to raising funds, the council is also looking to acquire properties that meet the city’s needs. Last September, it purchased the Royal Building for £5 million, which will be converted into temporary housing for homeless families.

The sale of Pounds House marks the end of a long history with the property. Originally built as a country house for William Hodge in 1825, it was later sold and became a public library until a fire in 1991. The house has also served as a cafe, wedding venue, and office space. Since 2017, the mansion has been empty and is now in need of substantial external repairs.

The council’s review of its properties and assets is part of its ongoing efforts to meet the needs of the city’s residents, ensuring that properties provide value and support the economy. While some assets are sold off, the council continues to make strategic acquisitions to support long-term goals.

Plymouth residents and potential buyers are encouraged to keep an eye on upcoming auction details for this historic building.