A stunning Grade II-listed mansion that was commissioned by the engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel has been listed with planning permission for more homes to be built12:37, 13 Aug 2026Updated 12:37, 13 Aug 2026The Grade II-listed mansion where Isambard Kingdom Brunel had planned to spend his retirement has gone on sale for £4million.‌The engineer had commissioned the grand property in Torquay, Devon, but he died in 1859 before having the chance to live at the property. The home is now on the market for £4million – but comes with planning permission to construct a further 35 homes.‌The huge site, which sits on over ten acres of land, is currently divided into three separate properties: Brunel Manor, Brunel Court and Brunel Lodge. Brunel Manor, built over four storeys, is fitted with six reception rooms and 55 bedrooms.‌Brunel Court, the former stable block to the main house, was converted into three cottages and a flat. The third building, Brunel Lodge, had three reception rooms and nine bedrooms.ATA Estates acquired the remainder of the estate, roughly five years ago, from the Woodlands House of Prayer, a charity that had operated the property as a hotel and Christian retreat and conference centre.‌Following extensive consultations with Historic England, the Torbay Design Review Panel and the local authority, Torbay Council granted planning permission for the project in June 2025.The plans involve demolishing the modern extensions to restore the setting of the listed buildings, converting them into 26 apartments and homes. Nine newly built properties will also be erected on the site.‌ATA Estates say they have considered all avenues including a potential sale but, having fallen head over heels for the project, they are intent on pressing ahead themselves should no buyer come forward. They are aiming to break ground on construction in the new year. The property is listed with Savills and offers will be considered throughout the process.Andy Fudge, who has been spearheading the project, said: "As part of our investigations, before even considering potential options for the site, we carried out detailed research into the history of the property and grounds and it was immediately apparent there was a fascinating history to the estate due to its connection to Isambard Kingdom Brunel, which in his time extended to some 600 acres.Article continues below"It was an absolute tragedy that Brunel never got to live there himself as he passed away before construction reached above foundation level."But, from our investigations, it was apparent the site deserved to be treated with the utmost respect and approached from a 'heritage first' perspective to ensure its survival going forwards did not detract from its previous storied history."We are excited to have reached the next stage of its restoration and redevelopment and for the next evolution in the life of Brunel Manor to commence."