Furzehill: Council begins sale of disused offices and land

Dorset Council has instructed agents to market the buildings and surrounding land

Dorset Council has begun the process of selling a disused office building in the east of the county.

Furzehill near Wimborne was once home to East Dorset District Council but ownership was transferred when six authorities became one in 2019.

The authority has instructed agents to market the buildings and 2.73 hectares (6.76 acres) earmarked for housing.

Woodleaze Copse, an ancient woodland on the east of the site, was not suitable for development, the council said.

According to the council, the site includes several buildings, including the main 19th Century house known as Woodleaze, a former 19th Century stable building converted into office space, and two semi-detached houses.

There is also garage space and several prefab buildings previously used as offices.

The site is for sale via informal tender.

Assets and property councillor Andrew Parry said: "At a time when council budgets are stretched, it is vitally important that we explore all options for our property portfolio and sell what we do not need, to get the best value for money for our residents.

"I hope people can see that we're working hard to dispose of these old unused assets and help reduce further financial burden on Dorset's taxpayers."

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