Residents of Dock Road in Sharpness, Gloucestershire, are facing a wave of uncertainty as news spreads about the upcoming auction of their homes.

The Canal and River Trust, a major UK charity that has managed the area for 150 years, plans to sell 24 properties—comprised of terrace houses, semi-detached homes, and detached properties—as a single lot for around £1.6 million.

While the Trust has assured tenants that their current rental agreements will remain intact, many worry about the potential for increased rents and the impact of a new owner.

A Unique Community Facing Change

For Amanda Cawston, 54, this auction comes as a shock.

Having lived in her home with her husband and son for nearly three years, she had envisioned a long-term future in the community.

“We thought we’d stay forever, but now we’re uncertain,” she lamented.

“The thought of losing our home, especially with Christmas approaching, is frightening. We’ve put so much into making this place our own, and we love being part of this friendly community.”

Her 19-year-old son, who works just two minutes away, also benefits from the home’s location, allowing him to maintain independence without needing a car.

Amanda is concerned that rising rents might force them out of their beloved neighborhood.

Longtime Residents Fear Losing Their Homes

The sentiment among longtime tenants is similar.

Dave Morse, 78, has spent 25 years in his Dock Road residence, pouring effort into improving his home.

The prospect of a new landlord raises concerns for him: “I’d be sad to leave because I’ve done a lot of work on this place. I just hope the new owner won’t impose too many restrictions or hike the rent.”

Jack Meredith, who only moved to the street a month ago, is still processing the news.

“It’s a bit of a shock, but we knew this might happen after the sewage improvements,” he shared.

Meanwhile, James Cooke, 27, who lives with his parents, expressed a desire to keep the community intact.

“This is home for us, and my parents, who are in their 60s, don’t want the added stress of moving.”

Mixed Feelings Over Potential Changes

Zoe Walker, who settled on Dock Road in 2006, fears the auction will leave her with nowhere to go if she has to leave.

After years on the council waiting list, she worries that rising rents could force her out.

“It’s uncertain how much rent will increase or if we’ll even be able to stay,” she said, acknowledging that changes could either be positive or negative depending on the new owner.

Suze Ashford-Barnes, a resident for seven years, was not entirely surprised by the Trust’s decision to sell.

“It wasn’t very nice to receive the letter without a personal touch, but it’s clear that the sewage upgrades made this sale possible,” she noted.

While she is prepared for potential rent increases, she hopes any changes will include necessary repairs to the aging properties.

What Lies Ahead: Awaiting the Auction Results

As the auction date of November 7 approaches, the Dock Road community is left to navigate this uncertainty together.

While the Canal and River Trust has reassured tenants that they won’t be forced to leave, the anxiety surrounding a new owner remains palpable.

The homes on Dock Road are more than just buildings; they represent a rich history and a tightly-knit community.

With hopes that the new ownership will bring positive changes rather than burdensome increases, residents are holding onto the hope that their cherished neighborhood will remain an affordable and welcoming place to call home.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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