Former Global House building in Oldbury sold for more than £200,000

The prestigious building, which used to be known as Global House, in Popes Lane, was sold by Birmingham-based commercial property consultancy Siddall Jones for £220,000 in recent weeks.

The offices had fallen into a state of disrepair over the past 10 years, with smashed windows, several break-ins and squatters setting up camp inside.

The forecourt car park had mounds of fly tipping rubbish left there last year, including bags of soil, mattresses and dirty clothing.

An employee from a nearby business, who did not wish to be named, said: "It has stood as it is for about 10 to 12 years now.

"Its been sold about two or three times in the past but then just abandoned, it seems that work starts on clearing it up and then it is just left.

"Inside it used to be an amazing building with a lot of character and a lovely staircase. Its sad to see it as it is, it would be good for everyone is something was done with it now as its had vandals and squatters take it over it the past."

Siddall Jones stated on their sale advert: "Global House comprises a substantial property of traditional brick construction arranged over ground and two upper floors with a galleried reception area.

"It would be in need of major refurbishment but offers an opportunity for conversion or redevelopment."

The three-storey 13,000 sq building has been under the hammer numerous occasions over the past decade, with it being put back up for sale not that long after each time.

It sits in the busy industrial district of Oldbury near Caparo, Tyco International, Siemens PLC and Sandwell Council.

Sandwell Council had no record of the building being reported in a state of disrepair.