A HEREFORDSHIRE tax haven that can generate £2,000 a week is up for sale.

Whitney-on-Wye toll bridge has gone on the market with Humberts Leisure with a starting price of £450,000.

The sale includes the 18th century bridge, a stretch of riverbank and a grade II-listed cottage where the tollkeeper resides.

The crossing was officially put on the market by the Home Counties family of its owner, the late Brian Howard.

Any buyer could net a handsome return – as the bridge was given tax-free status following its private construction in 1779.

The Act of Parliament means its prospective owner will forego paying business rates, capital gains tax and stamp duty.

Humberts director John Mitchell said the bridge often raised £2,000 on summer days from motorists paying the 80p toll.

The bridge is also exempt from inheritance tax, while the only major costs are maintenance and the tollkeeper’s wages.

“Brian Howard had an enthusiasm for bridges because he was an engineer by trade and often built them, said Mr Mitchell “He bought this one for a particular fee but his family lives around Bedfordshire and thought it would be best to sell it.

“It’s a tax haven because you don’t pay any tax on tolls, nor do you have any VAT, capital gains or inheritance tax.”

The late Mr Howard, former chairman of property company the Howard Group, bought the bridge for £300,000 in 2002.

For property details, contact Humberts Leisure on 02076 29 6700 or visit humbertsleisure.

com.