A former toilet block in Margate has been sold for seven times more than the estimated price.

The guide price for the building in Sea View Terrace, on the Westbrook Promenade, was £30,000 to £35,000 but a bidding war saw it finally go for £215,000.

The ex-lavatories were among 159 lots listed for sale by Clive Emson, the land and property auctioneers.

The building with “stunning sea views” attracted developers and investors for a variety of uses.

Auctioneer Kevin Gilbert said the potential of the building had been reflected in the bidding.

He said: “This was a unique opportunity to buy somewhere on the esplanade itself and so difficult to predict the levels of interest.

“Clearly any wish to change its use or develop would require permissions from Thanet District Council.

“You can appreciate the potential when you see what it sold for against the guide price.”