A unique shorefront property outside Rostrevor has been sold for almost 1m GBP. 

The Cove, situated just over two miles south of the village, off the Newry to Kilkeel A2 coastal route, was sold by Best Property Services for 980,000 GBP.

The sale, confirmed at the start of June, followed the withdrawal of the property from public auction in May as it failed to reach the reserve.

Over 20 interested parties attended the auction, but two main bidders kept their cards close to their chest during the auction conducted by Gary Best.

After consultation with the vendor, the property was withdrawn at 750,000 GBP.

Several days later the same two original bidders were invited back to the auction room and the hammer price of 980,000 GBP was agreed.

The sale had many locals talking but also attracted the attention of one man who had more reason than most to be interested in the outcome. 

Auctioneer, Gary Best said "We got a call from the former owner of the Cove who had noticed the property for sale in the papers.  He had sold the property to the Sturgeons in the 60s for around 5,000 GBP so he was intrigued to know what the 2008 sale price was an was impressed with the near million pound price tag."

The private Killowen hideaway has over an acre of land including 130m of shore frontage.  It also has a small grazing paddock beside the garden, which runs to the water's edge.  The new owner is currently living in the locality and intends to construct a new home on the site, following planning consent.

Source : Newry Democrat