Some time ago I wrote about the strip of land in front of the house – and how I needed to buy it to make things safe for me and my plans to build the gîte.

Here’s the original story:
Exchange Date fixed

So, apparently after some time, the mayor asked me whether I have asked the land surveyor to come and survey the land. She hadn’t kept me updated.
I phoned him and  the next day he was there!

I’ve received the plans and it looks like the risk I took has paid off. The survey was done with the mayor and this is what they have come back with:

The area I can buy (in orange shading) is 27 m2, although they’ve held onto a small section on the right side which I guess is to allow cars to pass correctly. There is also another section in orange across the street measured at 5 m2 (which the neighbour wanted to buy).

The agreed price remains at 100€, although the survey cost 550€ and who knows how much the notaires will charge for the conveyancing. All-in-all it was well worth the wait, and is another of the worries crossed off the list.

I was made aware today 12th January, that the village paper had an article in it on 19th December about the land sale. The English translation is below.

At the request of Mr Lacey, owner, of 1 place de la République, and Mr and Mrs Voisin, owners, of 2 place de la République, it’s been decided to change the construction status of part of the roadway, these being steps in front of and giving access to these two properties. In order to do this  a court case will shortly be started where a specialist will oversee. Following the enquiry, these steps will be sold for 100€ to Mr Lacey and 50€ to Mr & Mrs Voisin. This decision was taken following the understanding that the decision does not effect the accessibility of these roads. The solicitors and surveyors costs will be paid by the owners.