James L Murtagh, based in Mullingar, held two land auctions by telephone in recent days. The first was 41.5ac at Rathumber, Edenderry, Co Offaly. It was bid up to €300,000, but after discussions with the vendors, the property was withdrawn. Negotiations are now taking place with the highest bidder. The guide price on this property is €350,000 to €360,000.

Westmeath land

The other property that was due for auction was 120ac at Bunbrosna. The holding included 80ac of south-facing grassland and the balance was foreshore and special area of conservation (SAC). Access to the land was over a right of way, which facilitated traffic by a four by four or tractor.

This property sold 30 minutes in advance of the auction starting. The guide price for this land was €350,000 to €400,000 and the selling price is understood to have been in excess of this.