Sale listing of 'heritage asset' was human error

The sale of a 230-year-old Grade II* listed building has been described as "human error" by a council.

The Bury in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, was listed for sale by agents Brasier Freeth.

Dacorum Borough Council, which owns the vacant building, has firmly denied it is being sold and confirmed that no "decision has been taken to sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of" it.

It said its instruction to the agent was to seek expressions of interest regarding the future use of the "significant heritage asset".

Brasier Freeth has been contacted for comment.

The council said the description of the property as "for sale" did not reflect its instructions.

As soon as it became aware of the issue on Monday, the authority "took immediate steps to remove all references to the incorrect information".

It has discontinued the current commission with Brasier Freeth and said it would take the time to reconsider its approach and would update it in due course.

The council said it appreciated "the strength of feeling that exists within the heart of Hemel Hempstead regarding its future".

The building, on Queensway, was built as a private residence in 1790 and was most recently used as council offices.

In July, the Dacorum Heritage Trust, a preservation charity, said it was hoping to transform The Bury into a heritage centre.

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