Glimpse inside former NatWest bank in Uppermill ahead of auction

THE new owner of the former NatWest bank on Uppermill High Street remains a mystery until the highly anticipated auction on Tuesday, October 17…

But these pictures taken exclusively by the Saddleworth Independent unveil a first glimpse of the building behind the doors which closed on Tuesday, June 27 this year.

Entirely stripped of its contents, the building is an empty shell which is the opening lot of 63 at the Pugh Auction at the AJ Bell Stadium, with a bottom guide price of £250,000.

The building boasts three storeys and currently includes banking vaults and safes, staff toilets, a kitchen area, and attic area, with much of it in need of renovation.

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One feature which must remain however is the ATM, with work recently completed to isolate it so it can be accessed easily regardless of what the building is used for.

NatWest have pledged to retain the ATM for a minimum five years and will pay £2,000 per annum to the future new owner.

However, there has been criticism of the conditions attached to the sale of the building, with NatWest refusing to allow another bank or building society to make a bid for the premises.

The property will be sold subject to restrictions preventing the following uses:
• Businesses involved with money lending
• Pawnbrokers/adult sex shops
• Bookmakers or any other gambling business or outlet
• Banks/ Building Societies
• A4 users (ie bars/public houses)
• The sale of firearms
• The sale of any paraphernalia associated with illegal drugs

Two viewing days have already been held for prospective buyers, with a third planned for Monday, October 16 (5-5.30pm), the day before the auction.

Viewing dates can change and therefore you should confirm your place should you wish to attend by contacting Pugh Auctions: 0345 505 1200.