ALMOST 80 acres of land in Garelochhead owned by the Ministry of Defence went up for sale – briefly – in an online auction this week.

The 79.6 acre site at Feorlinbreck and Upland Way, including a play park, grass area and parking for approximately 14 cars, was advertised for sale by the MoD with a guide price of £70,000.

Helensburgh Advertiser: A car park and play park were also included in the saleA car park and play park were also included in the sale

Bidding opened at 12 noon on Wednesday – but closed just three hours later, with the land selling for two-and-a-half times its guide price (£176,000).

The auction listing said “parts of the property would be suitable for development, subject to obtaining the necessary consents”.

Helensburgh Advertiser: A car park and play park were also included in the saleA car park and play park were also included in the sale

The site includes two telephone masts, let to Arqiva and EE until 2025 and 2034 respectively, producing a combined rental income of £8,000 a year.