A WONDERFUL development opportunity has arisen in Russell’s Water, writes Jacky Hayler.

A plot has come to the market consisting of a single-storey, semi-detached property, built about 65 years ago.Subsequently modernised over the years it currently offers three bedrooms, one with an en-suite shower room, a family bathroom and two reception rooms together with a kitchen/breakfast room.

But the plot has planning permission to replace the existing dwelling with a new detached residence and garage. The replacement dwelling would comprise three bedrooms, one with en-suite bathroom and a family bathroom. The ground floor comprises a sitting room, study, dining room/bedroom 4, kitchen with breakfast area, utility room and cloakroom with shower.

Current owners Graham Benbridge and Susan Roose had hoped to build the home of their dreams on the plot, and had full plans drawn up — but a change in circumstances means they are now looking to move closer to Henley.

Mr Benbridge said: “We bought it five years ago and have been living in the cottage we intended to knock down ever since. We used planning consultants as South Oxfordshire is quite strict but eventually got plans approved after a year. The property is our vision, while still in keeping with the area. We really have done all the hard work so someone can come along, tweak the plans to put their own stamp on it and just get going.”


Mr Benbridge said the current cottage was “past its sell-by date” and the plot would benefit from someone starting from scratch.

“We bought the property literally over a weekend as we fell in love with the area. It is disappointing not to be able to follow through with our plans but for someone else it would make the perfect family home.”

Ms Roose added: “There are great schools in both Nettlebed and Watlington and a lovely local pub. The plot overlooks the green and the property would sit in the centre of the plot with a fantastic outlook.

“It really was to be our dream home but now hopefully it can become someone else’s dream.”

The plot with the existing property is available through Hamptons for a guide price of £575,000. For more details, call (01491) 572215.

Published 10/12/12