RESIDENTS with dreams of creating their own Grand Designs building can dip their toe in the water by bidding for a redundant reservoir tank.

The Ruardean Hill site being sold in an online auction is covered by an earth mound, and sellers Severn Trent Water claim it could be the dream location for anyone with Grand Design ambitions.

Bidders could “secure a slice of rural heaven” by securing the “quirky” site for their own self-build conversion project, add estate agents Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH).

They have issued a £20,000 guide price for the 0.5-acre lot, which will be auctioned from next Monday to Tuesday (October 4 to October 5).

The reservoir, which is close to the junction with Baptist Road, is one of four being sold in Gloucestershire by the utility company.

LSH spokesman Oliver Childs said: “The property comprises an earth-covered, above-ground redundant reservoir constructed of reinforced concrete that would offer strong potential for innovative conversion to alternative uses, including Grand Design-style conversion to residential or holiday accommodation use.

“There is recognition within national planning guidance of the growing demand from the self-build sector for improved access to opportunities to undertake self-build projects, which will include conversion of existing buildings and structures, often exhibiting innovative and ground-breaking design solutions. 

“Over recent years a growing number of examples from across the UK of high quality conversions have captured the public imagination and inspired more and more people to become involved in realising their own Grand Design ambitions.”

He added that all planning permissions sought for similar reservoirs auctioned off last year had been granted, including for a riding stables, and two- and one-storey homes.  

The online auction begins at 9am next Monday and ends at 2pm the next day. Potential bidders need to register an interest beforehand at https://onlineauction.lsh.co.uk/search/index