Estate agency Ashtons has been caught up in a political row about the sale of a Labour HQ in York.

Local Liberal Democrats claim the £450,000 sale price for the terraced house in Holgate Road shows Labour is guilty of hypocrisy, reports the YorkMix website.

Labour had previously said it was “obscene” that properties elsewhere in the city were selling for more than £440,000, and on a barracks site for an average of £517,000.

The Lib Dems have now asked Labour, which runs the council, to explain how this sale and the amount being asked for, supports its commitment to increase the supply of affordable homes in York.

Keen eye

The property which comes with planning approval for residential use (main picture) is being marketed by York-based agency Ashtons, and the details can be viewed on Zoopla.

Residents will be watching the sale of Labour’s offices with a keen eye.”

Nigel Ayre, Lib Dem group leader, says: “Residents will be watching the sale of Labour’s offices with a keen eye.

“It will be interesting to learn what Labour plans to do with the proceeds of the sale of their Holgate Road HQ,” he says.

He asks whether Labour will work with a social landlord to develop the former HQ building, which is close to the city centre, into affordable housing.

“The answer to that question will confirm whether this is another example of Labour’s actions not matching up to their public commitments.”

York Labour Party declined to comment when approached by YorkMix.

Pictures: Zoopla and Churchills