IT has to be one of the most unusual and poshest council houses in Swansea.
Singleton Park Lodge in Brynmill was built in the mid 19th century by London architect Henry Woodyer for acclaimed Swansea industrialist John Henry Vivian.
It used to be a park keeper's tied home but is no longer needed.
So rather than just leave it empty and allow it to fall into disrepair, its council owners have instead decided to put the historic gem up for sale.
The Gothic-style tower at the entrance to Singleton Park is so unique it has proved difficult to set an asking price so offers are now being invited by agents Dawsons.
The grade two listed building is a landmark in the city.
The council says it hopes the sell-off will allow the three-storey, three-bedroomed property to flourish for generations to come.
The lodge is included in Cadw's list of buildings of special architectural or historic interest.
The architect who created it is known for gothic revival architecture. His other works locally include St John the Baptist Church, Hafod, for Henry Hussey Vivian and St Paul's Church, Sketty, for John Henry Vivian.
Henry Woodyer is also know for the New Schools at Eton College built in 1861-63 and the famous Cranleigh School in Surrey.
As the lodge is set within the boundaries of Singleton Park it is also included in the Register of historic Park and landscapes.
Gothic
It consists of a square three-storey tower with one room on each floor with an additional two-storey block at the rear.
All the windows and doors have dressed stone surrounds and pointed arched heads on the Gothic Early English form and there are many architectural trimming styles.
Inside is a kitchen, two reception rooms with beamed ceilings and leaded windows.
It has gas central heating and a bathroom. Two of the three bedrooms have sea views.
There is also an enclosed level courtyard. The arch attached to it will remain in Swansea Council ownership but will be accessible to the new owner.
Councillor Stuart Rice, Swansea Council's Cabinet member for finance, said: "We hope this local landmark will make someone's perfect home.
"By taking up the opportunity to own a slice of architectural history the new owner will also be helping ensure it stands for generations to come.
"Given that the building is listed, listed building consent will be required for any works to this property classed as material alterations, including any change of window materials or window style, roof materials or rendering as well as internal alterations."
The property is being marketing through Dawsons estate agents.
Partner Chris Hope said it was impossible to be specific about the lodge's value.
He added: "Nothing like it has ever been sold before.
"While we hope it is eventually bought by a local person, we expect there to be interest from across the world in what is very much a unique, one-off property."
perter.slee@swwmedia.co.uk
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