A substantial eight-bedroom townhouse in Gloucester has been listed for a remarkably low price of £375,000, a figure significantly reduced due to its unsettling location just two doors away from the site of Fred and Rose West's infamous 'house of horrors'. The three-storey property, situated on a quiet street, presents a deceptively ordinary exterior but carries a dark historical shadow that has directly impacted its market value.
A Property with a Troubled Past
The home, spanning 1,394 square feet, features eight bedrooms, two kitchens, three shower rooms, a small garden, and off-road parking. It was previously used as a house in multiple occupation and has been freshly painted with new carpets, though it requires further refurbishment to reach its full potential. Estate agents highlight its excellent transport links, including proximity to Gloucester bus and train stations, which offer direct services to London.
Why the Price is So Low
The primary reason for the discounted price is the property's close proximity to where the Wests' home once stood. That house, where the couple carried out numerous murders between 1967 and 1987, was demolished by Gloucester City Council in October 1996 to prevent it from becoming a macabre tourist attraction. Today, the site is a public footpath. Fred and Rose West were arrested in 1994 for killing at least 12 girls and young women; Fred hanged himself in 1995 before trial, while Rose, now 72, is serving a life sentence for ten murders.
Estate agent Adam Clegg confirmed that the infamous location has been 'factored into the price,' acknowledging that similar properties in Gloucester can fetch up to £525,000. The listing on Rightmove, managed by Keller Williams, makes no mention of the Wests, but the historical context is well-known locally and has clearly affected buyer interest.
Investment Potential Despite the History
Despite its grim association, the house offers considerable investment opportunities. Potential buyers could convert it into flats, leveraging its size and layout. Agents estimate that if rented out, the property could generate approximately £4,500 per month. The description notes a self-contained studio flat at the rear with a private garden and entrance, ideal for additional income or flexible accommodation.
The property also includes a cellar with potential for extra living space, adding to its versatility. While the guide price was reduced by £50,000, reflecting the stigma of its location, the bargain price may attract investors willing to overlook the past for financial gain. However, the enduring notoriety of the Wests' crimes ensures that this house will always be marked by its proximity to one of Britain's most chilling crime scenes.
