New BaR Entry January 2020: Ely House, 158 Lynn Road, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire

3rd March 2020

This handsome, grade II listed (LEN:1331636) Georgian Farmhouse has certainly fallen on hard times of late. Built in warm-toned local brick with a pantile roof, its symmetrical front with central pedimented door makes for an extremely pleasing appearance.

After some long-term maintenance issues, the property fell vacant and was then occupied by squatters. Significant damage was caused, including the removal of several fireplaces and damage to glazing. There were two fires, destroying the 20^th century garage and an historic service block.

Ely House has now been repossessed by the bank who sold it at auction in December 2019. In November 2019, the council served an Urgent Works Notice for them to clear rainwater goods, fix the roof and cut back an overgrown tree which was causing damage to the brick gables. This work has been done and the council are monitoring regularly. Prior to the house's sale, the Council were working with the bank to avoid further damage to the building.

It is hoped that the new owners will restore the house.

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