The freehold of an historic six-acre island located off the Plymouth coast has been put up for sale.
Named after Sir Francis Drake, who set sail from its shores in 1577 to circumnavigate the world, Drake’s Island enjoys panoramic views from its position in the Plymouth Sounds.
It has more than 30,000 sq ft of disused accommodation, including the Grade II listed Governor’s House, and also houses casemates, a battery and an extensive underground tunnel network, along with remnants of Tudor fortifications.
Drake’s Island is allocated for heritage-led regeneration, with planning permission for a new 43-bedroom hotel and associated visitor facilities, as well as marine/natural environment-related research and development.
Morgan Phillips, the present owner of Drake’s Island, said: “I purchased this historic island in 2019 with ambitious plans. However, as so many of us know, conditions have altered over the past five years, and due to recent changes, I am seeking someone to take over and bring these dreams to life more quickly than I could. This is an incredible opportunity to be a part of history and create something truly special that honours the island’s heritage and significance locally and beyond.
“Being the steward of this amazing landscape has been one of the great joys of my life. I’m pleased to have worked with local authorities and stakeholders to implement plans to revitalise Drake’s Island and breathe new life into its historic buildings. I hope to pass on the baton to someone passionate about the island’s surroundings and can realise its potential, and I would cherish the prospect of seeing these ambitions realised.”
Ali Rana, partner, commercial, at Carter Jonas, which has been instructed to market the opportunity, added: “Carter Jonas is excited to present this extraordinary opportunity to potential buyers. The heritage and beauty of Drake’s Island make it well-suited for a best-in-class development that can fully employ its outstanding position and rejuvenate a treasured and much-loved landmark.”
