A mothballed police station with views of the Cornish coast could spark a bidding war after being put on the market for £850,000.

The building on a narrow street in the centre of St Ives enjoys "stunning sea views" of arguably the most desirable coastal area in the UK, according to agents handling the sale.

It has been described as an "exciting development opportunity" with the potential to turn it into apartments or a huge town house – that could be worth millions.

The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC), which owns the police estates, said the station "no longer suited the needs of a modern police service".

The property is advertised as having sea views from the top floor and “excellent” parking, including "storage for a car or boat in a secure basement".

Director of Bradley's Estate Agents Kevin James, who is handling the sale, said there had already been “high levels of interest” in the police station.

He added: "Offers are expected in the near future."

Mr James said potential buyers are looking at a range of long-term uses.

There was also currently "very valuable" parking space for up to ten vehicles, Mr James added.

In 2012 three spaces sold for £160,000 with another going for £40,000 in 2017.

The police estate is owned by the OPCC for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, who said: "The site is currently on the market with a guide price of £850,000 and we are currently investigating a move into a multi-agency base within the town.

"St Ives does not have a police enquiry office and there are no plans for that to change."

The listing described it as "one of the most exciting commercial and residential investment and development opportunities in the South West..

It added: "St Ives is a sought-after location, winning many awards as a place to live or visit in the United Kingdom.

"This has made the town even more popular in recent years with developers and business.

"We are expecting a high level of interest in this exciting and unique opportunity.

"Subject to consents the property offers numerous opportunities such as residential, holiday homes, HMO, business let or to generate substantial parking income."

The advert for the property says offers are "subject to approval by Devon and Cornwall Police Resources Board".

St Ives is often ranked as one of the Cornwall has overtaken London this year as the most searched for location on Rightmove.

In June, the G7 summit is being held in nearby Carbis Bay with St Ives having the closest police station.