BBC Homes Under the Hammer Couple Call Police After Startling Discovery at Chaddesden Property
A Derby couple, Lee and Laura, received an unexpected shock at their Chaddesden property during today’s episode (Monday, January 13) of BBC Homes Under the Hammer. The couple purchased the lot at auction for £60,000, attracted by its prime residential location and existing planning permission for a four-bedroom townhouse.
Described by host Dion Dublin as “a developer’s dream come true,” the property seemed like the perfect investment. However, the project took an explosive turn when Lee, who owns a building company, discovered a hand grenade in the bushes while preparing the site for development, as reported by Derby Shire Live.
Recalling the moment, Lee said: “We had to call the police, and the bomb squad came down. They evacuated all the houses down here.” Despite the shocking find, the couple remained optimistic about their plans to transform the plot into a modern family home.
The project is ambitious, with plans for a three-story house featuring a large garden, a driveway equipped with EV charging points, and a heat pump to reduce carbon emissions. Lee’s team of 11 employees, along with contractors, aim to complete the build within 8-10 months. The total budget for the project is set at £170,000.
Laura explained that the family envisioned the new home as both a functional and high-spec property. Even their children, Amelie and Louis, were excited to participate in the process. “We want it to be a family home with a high spec finish,” Laura said.
A local estate agent shared promising projections for the property’s potential. Upon completion, it is estimated to rent for approximately £1,200 per month or sell for around £325,000, highlighting the plot’s value and the couple’s vision for maximizing its potential.
Despite the dramatic start, Lee and Laura are excited about the journey ahead. With determination and a clear plan, they aim to turn this unexpected twist into a success story, showcasing the resilience and creativity that epitomize the spirit of property development.