A WATER tower believed to be part of Colchester’s original Royal Artillery barracks has been sold after being up for sale for just two weeks.

The landmark in Butt Road was put up on the market for just £75,000 and attracted scores of offers to agent Fenn Wright.

The successful buyer could convert the 19th Century, octagonal building into a commercial venture or even homes.

Graham Buxton, partner at Fenn Wright, said: “It is fair to say because it is a unique opportunity to acquire a water tower, we received a strong level of interest.”

Mr Buxton did not wish to disclose what the tower finally sold for.

But he revealed that while the buyer is not well known in Colchester, they are from Essex.

He added: “They don’t tend to come on the market on a regular basis.

“I am not sure we were surprised with how quickly it sold.”

It is unknown what the buyer’s intentions are but the building’s owners Taylor Wimpey were given planning permission in 2011 for change of use from a Ministry of Defence, water tower to commercial class.

Fenn Wright advertised to potential buyers the two-storey building has the potential to be converted to residential use, subject to the necessary planning consents.

The inside of the brick tower measures 450 sq ft and the ground floor originally housed some baths.

A squat water tank replaced the roof and some windows.

There is also a potential area for car parking.

Mr Buxton added: “It will need complete renovation, whatever the buyer decides to do with it.”