A central part of an important nineteenth century ironworks set in an idyllic post industrial south Wales country park has gone up for auction.

Steeped in Industrial revolution history the Grade II listed Engine House building, in the heart of Parc Tondu country park, near Bridgend, dates back to 1838.

The Victorian property, which at one time housed steam-powered blowing engines which supplied air to blast furnaces on the site, is being sold by Newport-based Paul Fosh Auctions with a guide price of £320,000 plus.

Sean Roper, who is handling the sale on behalf of Paul Fosh Auctions, says he believes the former iron works building is overflowing with potential and that this substantial property could prove a real blast for a new owner with imagination. There is currently planning for a single dwelling on the site.

“The Engine House was the subject of a comprehensive renovation 20 years ago, supervised by the Welsh heritage body Cadw and funded through the Millennium Commission. The eye-catching building has been used as offices in the preceding years.

“This versatile and historic building would be ideal for a number of uses including its current configuration as offices or perhaps as conversion to residential such as a number of flats or one large dwelling. The property would also be ideal for tourism based use, such as small hotel, B&B or outdoor pursuits type centre, all subject to necessary planning consents.

“The village of Tondu lies just two miles from the M4 motorway with easy access to both Cardiff and Swansea. The renovated building currently provides office accommodation over four floors. Externally there is an attractive parkland setting and the property is approached by a driveway and has its own private parking area.”

Parc Tondu, where the property is sited, is billed as the most complete Victorian iron works in Britain.

The next Paul Fosh Auctions sale is on Thursday, February 6, at The Cardiff North Hotel, Llanedryn, Cardiff, starting at 5pm.