An historic Grade II listed building – which is a landmark feature of Saffron Walden – has been put up for sale with the possibility for residential development.

Saffron Walden Water Tower, at 55 Debden Road, was constructed in 1913 for the Borough of Saffron Walden Water Works but has remained largely vacant for many years, with only telecommunications leases making use of its impressive height. The red brick Edwardian feature, designed by architect AH Forbes and constructed by local builder J Custerson, was added to English Heritage’s books as a Grade II listed building on October 31, 1994.

Approximately 28 metres-high, the tower is now for sale by informal tender through Bidwells of Chelmsford. There is no guide price.

The particulars of the sale suggest that “an opportunity exists to convert the existing structure to a residential, or other, use subject to obtaining the necessary consents and permissions from the Planning Authority and complying with the provisions of the telecoms leases.”

The brochure for the tower describes the interior of the tower highlighting its four internal floors, two mezzanine areas, iron spiral staircase and timber stairs.

Marketing for the property commenced on Tuesday (May 26) and viewing mornings will be held on Tuesday, June 2 and Tuesday, June 16. The tower is being offered for sale to all interested parties across the country. A spokesperson for the agents said: “We have recommended to the client that we advertise the property locally as well as nationally; an advertisement appears in this week’s Estates Gazette.”

Telecoms plant and masts are present on both the fourth floor and roof of the tower and agents confirm that will remain the case, with the property being sold subject to the existing leases and any rights enjoyed by EE and Telefonica.