A former salmon smokery in the heart of the South Downs is coming up for auction later this month.

The Springs in Edburton Road near Henfield is among 178 lots in the latest sale by Clive Emson Land and Property Auctioneers which ends on September 18.

It is listed with a freehold guide price of £575,000 to £600,000 with vacant possession.

10,000 square feet of commercial buildings, including retail offices, stores, cold rooms and workshops (Image: Clive Emson)

The property comprises approximately 10,000 square feet of commercial buildings including retail offices, stores, cold rooms and workshops.

Richard Payne, senior auction appraiser and auctioneer, said: “This is a rare opportunity to acquire a former salmon smoking distribution and retail business.

“There is also a substantial yard and parking areas together with a large, wooded area, including a chalk water spring, with the total site, including the adjoining paddock, extending to 3.6 hectares (8.9 acres).

“It is considered suitable for a variety of uses including leisure/retail development opportunities, subject to all necessary consents being obtainable.”

The site is at the foot of the South Downs within the National Park with direct access by footpath to the South Downs Way.

A 1.53 acre plot of land at The Paddock near Hailsham is also being auctioned (Image: Clive Emson)

Further east a 1.53 acre plot of land at The Paddock near Hailsham is being auctioned.

It is listed with a freehold guide price of £475,000 to £500,000 and is being offered jointly with the Land Agency.

The irregular shaped plot is on level ground between the A22 and Robin Post Lane in a semi-rural location on the outskirts of Hailsham. It has planning consent from Wealden District Council for five self-build detached houses.

Outline of The Paddock 1.53 acres plot of land (Image: Clive Emson)

The land is in a cul-de-sac and is within easy reach of the shops and amenities of Hailsham and is in a prime location for road links to Lewes, Eastbourne and all surrounding areas.

Richard said: “There is the potential to submit an application to provide private dwelling houses, subject to all necessary consents being obtainable."