The former Crown and Sceptre pub in Acol has been sold at auction – again.
The property has planning permission to be converted into two homes; one with two bedrooms and the other with four.
It was among 124 lots listed for sale by Clive Emson, the land and property auctioneers, at its latest sale.
The former hostelry lies between Birchington and Minster and had a freehold guide price of £165-175,000 but sold for £215,000.
Kevin Gilbert, auctioneer, said: “This was a fine opportunity for a builder to create new, in-demand residential properties.
“It is a large building in a good location and therefore we anticipated a great deal of interest, which we received.”
The former pub last sold at auction in October 2018 for £152,000.
In October 2017 an application submitted to demolish the pub and build two homes in its place was refused.
The former Shepherd and Neame pub shut in May 2012. It was then put on the market for £240,000 but only one offer was received and that was later withdrawn.
In April 2013 it was sold for a sum below the original asking price but deemed unsuitable to open as a pub again.
The planning application from Toran Construction was vehemently opposed by many residents in the village.
Margate Civic Society objected to the “complete annihilation of the historic building.”
In January Thanet council served notice on the owner ordering them to carry out replacement and repair works to the roof and structure.
The building was in a poor state with the roof gone and weather damage inside.
Part of the premises dates back to the 17th century.