A HISTORIC house which has been Herefordshire Wildlife Trust's headquarters for 20 years is now up for sale.

The trust has decided to sell Lower House Farm in Tupsley, Hereford as it no longer meets the needs of the organisation.

The house in Ledbury Road dates back to the 16th century and is on the market for £450,000.

Evan Bowen-Jones, chief executive of the Hereford Wildlife Trust, said: “Since 1997 the Trust has been fortunate enough to occupy Lower House Farm, a magnificent building by any standard.

“A great deal of hard work went into the acquisition and restoration of the building, but in the 20 years which have passed the organisation has grown and changed.

“Various plans to increase capacity on site have been developed and tested, but, with some regret, the trustees have accepted that Lower House Farm no longer meets the needs of the organisation."

The trust will continue to own and manage the adjoining Lugg Meadows Nature Reserve.

Mr Bowen-Jones added: “By selling Lower House Farm, the trust will be able to reinvest in our offices, workshops and visitor facilities at Queenswood Country Park and in a better strategic spread of operational bases (hubs) across the county.

“It will also strengthen financial reserves during a period of great uncertainty over land-based payment schemes.”

Conditional planning consent has been given to restore the building and turn it back into the home it once was.

The site is 2.98 acres and the house could have five to six bedrooms – subject to planning.

Tom Dennes from the Fisher German Worcester office, added: “Lower House Farm is a beautiful property that is full of potential.

“There are many original period features to be appreciated within and outside the building and it would be perfect for someone looking for a project.

“All this farm house needs is someone with an appreciation of its history and a vision to bring help it back to life.”