A spectacular town hall in a Kent town - used for storage by owner Kent County Council - has smashed its guide price at auction. The imposing building with huge columns, mosaics and stained glass windows, was down for £300,000 plus with Clive Emson auctioneers.

However, fierce bidding for the Grade II* listed Old Town Hall in Gravesend saw that figure surge to more than two-and-a-half times that, with the gavel slamming down on a final nod of £791,000.

Planning papers show Kent County Council had to carry out emergency repairs to the roof, after around three-quarters of the lead flashing and lead roof areas were stolen, to protect the building including stopping further water damage to the inside.

The council, which owned the building, used it "predominantly for storage", accordin

See Full Page