A SHOPPING precinct and social housing properties at Chapelhay in Weymouth are to be sold at auction amid concerns about the condition of the buildings.

Gordon Row - comprising 10 ground-floor commercial units and 12 flats above - is situated at the heart of the community, arranged around a small square with benches and green space.

As reported, Aster Group, which owns the freehold of the site, is planning to dispose of the properties. Although an auction date is yet to be set, the social housing provider has now confirmed that the freehold for the shops and flats will go under the hammer once the last tenant has been relocated. The flats are occupied by a mix of leaseholders and tenants. Just one social rented property remains occupied.

It comes amid ongoing concerns about concrete cancer affecting the site. Although Aster has previously said the issue was resolved, sources at Gordon Row contest this and say the building’s poor condition remains a problem.

Current lease arrangements for the shops will remain in place after the sale as Aster subleases the commercial units to a private landlord: London-based Khosla Investments Limited. The landlord owns a 125-year headlease, purchased on January 22 at a peppercorn ground rent.

In turn, Khosla rents out the shops to local businesses. They include a fish and chip shop; Chinese takeaway; convenience store, The Lantern charity shop; a hairdresser; mother and baby hub; a holistic healing centre, and a financial advisor.

An Aster Group spokesperson said: “No date has been set for the auction of Gordon Row or will be set until we have successfully found appropriate alternative homes to meet the needs of our remaining customers.

“The proceeds from any sales of our homes are reinvested in both our existing homes and so we can build more affordable homes, as part of our commitment as a landlord with a social purpose.

“In the meantime we remain in contact with our customers and our repairs team continue to monitor and carry out essential health and safety maintenance on the building as and when this is required.”