In Lowestoft, a coastal town steeped in history, a cherished property at 90 and 90A High Street has failed to find a new owner at a recent auction. The mixed-use building, dating back to the 1880s, holds a significant place in the town’s commercial landscape, having housed various businesses, including a lighting shop, travel agency, and most recently, the Bright Ideas shop.
A Rich Legacy Unsold
The property, spanning over four floors and approximately 139 square meters, comprises a vacant shop and a self-contained flat above. Offering sea views and off-road parking, the building presents a unique opportunity for investors. However, despite its rich legacy and potential, the highest bid at the auction was £131,000, falling short of the reserve price.
The property’s history is as intricate as the town itself. It has been in the same family since the 1960s, a testament to the enduring bond between the owners and their beloved Lowestoft. Located within a conservation area, the building is not just a piece of real estate; it’s a slice of the town’s heritage.
A Rare Opportunity Missed
“It’s a rare opportunity to acquire such a property,” said Bryan Baxter, the auctioneer at Auction House East Anglia. “The building has been a part of Lowestoft’s High Street for over a century, witnessing the town’s transformation and contributing to its vibrant character.”
Despite the property’s need for refurbishment, its unique features and potential were expected to attract significant interest. The guide price for the property was set between £130,000 and £150,000, reflecting its historical value and potential for development.
Searching for a New Steward
The sale was conducted under the instruction of a power of attorney, signifying a change in the property’s guardianship. As the gavel fell without a successful sale, the search for a new steward to carry on the property’s legacy continues.
The unsold property stands as a symbol of Lowestoft’s resilient spirit, a testament to the town’s enduring charm. As the waves continue to crash against the shore, the property at 90 and 90A High Street awaits a new chapter in its storied history.
In the ever-evolving landscape of Lowestoft, the unsold property serves as a reminder of the town’s past and a beacon of potential for its future. Its journey from a bustling lighting shop to a vacant space holds stories of ambition, resilience, and the inevitable passage of time.