A piece of Victorian history is up for grabs as the former Grosvenor hotel and pub in Splott, Cardiff, heads to auction with a guide price of £1 million. The majestic building, standing at the corner of South Park Road and Moorland Road, boasts a rich history dating back to its construction in 1893. Once a bustling spot for local steelworkers and dockyard laborers, the Grosvenor is set to embark on a new journey as it seeks a new owner.
The landmark building, with its Victorian curved façade, served as a welcoming haven for weary steelworkers returning from the East Moors Steelworks and dockyard workers from the vibrant Cardiff Docks. Its strategic location at the crossroads not only catered to the local workforce but also provided convenient access to Cardiff city centre, making it an integral part of the community.
Despite its historical significance, the Grosvenor faced closure in 2008 when its then-owners, Brains, deemed it commercially unviable. The pub stood vacant for years, facing an uncertain future until 2010 when a planning application proposed its demolition. Efforts to secure a listing status from Cadw, the historic environment service of the Welsh Government, proved futile, but the Grosvenor persevered.
The 2010 proposal sought to replace the Victorian structure with 22 flats spanning three to four storeys, accompanied by 21 parking spaces. However, the Grosvenor House prevailed, and in 2011, planning permission was granted for the conversion of the former pub and hotel into 24 apartments, complete with second-floor dormers and extensions to the rear. The decision was officially approved in 2013, marking a pivotal moment in the building’s journey.
Now known as Grosvenor House, the imposing structure stands poised for its next chapter as it heads to auction with Auction House Wales on Wednesday, December 13, starting at 12 pm. The company reveals that the building has undergone further transformation, now comprising 26 residential units. However, interested parties are urged to exercise due diligence, as the company has not received specific accommodation breakdown or income details.
Prospective buyers are advised to review the legal pack and conduct external inspections, with a company spokesperson highlighting the special conditions of sale within the legal pack. These conditions outline potential additional charges beyond the purchase price, including search fees, reimbursement of sellers’ costs and legal fees, transfer fees, and other associated costs.
