MYSTERY surrounds why the roads and pavements in a residential area of Chineham have been put up for sale.

Residents have been left concerned and confused as to why 6,023 square metres of land and roadways in Minden Close are being sold at an auction on March 25 by Auction House London, with a guide price given of in excess of £5,000.

The land, which includes roadways and pavements, has been listed on Right Move, and states it is “suitable for a variety of uses (subject to obtaining all relevant consents)”.

It adds: “Purchasers are deemed to rely on their own enquires with regard to any possible development potential for this individual site.”

Most residents had no idea the land was up for sale. Those who had heard were concerned.

One person, who has lived in Minden Close since it was built in 1983, said: “I’m utterly horrified. I presume whoever buys it will then charge us for anything that’s done on the roads. I am worried.”

The 77-year-old who raised his family there, added: “I don’t know what the implications will be. You would think someone would have told us about it.”

Richard and Moira Clark have been looking into the matter, but still don’t have answers.

The couple, who have lived in Minden Close for more than 30 years, said Hampshire County Council currently maintains the roads.

Mr Clark, a retired maths teacher, said: “If this is going to mean a cost implication to us, we will expect a rebate of council tax.”

The 68-year-old also questioned whether this could result in the same issue happening in other cul-de-sac roads in the Chineham area.

Mrs Clark, 65, who has just retired as a practice manager, added: “We are very worried.”

Another couple, who moved into their home in Minden Close in December, said there was nothing about it in the deeds.

However, it does mention the need to pay £15 to a company in London if they want to build an extension.

Richard, 31, an electrician, said: “Our house is freehold but if we want to extend we have to ask permission and pay £15 to this company in London. There’s something a bit strange.”

The Gazette is making further enquires into this and will provide an update when we have found out more.