Arresting development is priced to ‘cell’

Following the Petworth local constabulary’s relocation to a new police station, Smiths Gore can’t wait to ‘cell’ the former police station, representing a rare opportunity to acquire a substantial Victorian building of character in the heart of the town.

A late 19th Century dwelling, formerly known as Bellevue, the property was constructed using the bricks from the old Petworth House of Correction which had occupied the site since the beginning of the 1800s. It was built as the residence for the Chief Constable of West Sussex though it seems unlikely that he ever lived there although it is probable John Kemmish, the Superintendent of Police at Petworth and Deputy Chief Constable for the county used it for a short time.

By the turn of the twentieth century the property had lost any connection with the police and was home to John Pitfield, the prominent Petworth solicitor who developed the gardens into the finest in the district. It reverted back to the West Sussex Constabulary during the middle of the last century.

The property, also known for a time as Westways, has undergone modifications and alterations most notably during the late Victorian and Edwardian eras. The two storey building occupies a floor area of approximately 5300 square feet and is built of brick elevations under a pitched slate roof with an adjoining single storey garage/workshop facility (some 2700 square feet). As one would expect of a property of this era, the majority of the rooms are large and square with high ceilings.

Enquiries made of the district council indicate the property is not listed as being of architectural significance however some features remain such as picture rails and fireplaces. The grounds are mature lying to the west and south of the building and are bounded by brick walling.

Daniel Clay, selling agent at Smiths Gore’s Petworth Office says:

"The sale of the former Police Station represents a wonderful yet rare redevelopment opportunity in the heart of the town. With its vivid history and tremendous potential I am sure there will be no shortage of parties wishing to accompany us to the station.”

Offers are invited for the former Police Station.

For further information, visit Daniel.clay@smithsgore.co.uk.