**Correction Issued Over “Lot 77” Auction Property Listing and Photographs**
Wales Online has issued a correction after an earlier article regarding a retail property up for auction, titled “Inside the frozen-in-time abandoned shop going to auction that’s still full of stuff”, was found to contain inaccuracies. The article, which appeared on 5 May, discussed the forthcoming sale of a premises described as a ground floor retail unit with an accompanying maisonette, highlighting the apparently untouched state of the shop interior as seen in auction photographs.
The original news story featured images sourced directly from the auctioneer’s website, depicting shelves that appeared fully stocked and giving readers the impression that the property had remained unchanged and its goods left intact. The subheading boldly claimed the presence of “plenty of potential at this property, including cards, presents and gifts for the family and friends for years to come”, further suggesting those items formed part of the sale.
However, it has now emerged that the photographs accompanying the article did not reflect the property’s current condition. Since the publication of the images and the original feature, Wales Online has been made aware that the retail unit has actually been cleared of all stock, making the interior markedly different to how it was portrayed to readers. This significant change raises important questions about the accuracy and timeliness of information presented to potential buyers and the public.
Upon further investigation and subsequent clarification from parties involved, Wales Online has issued an apology and has moved quickly to set the record straight. In a statement, the outlet said: “We are happy to clarify this and apologise for any confusion. We would also like to apologise for reporting that the premises was ‘abandoned’. This was incorrect.” It is understood that the property has not been abandoned, but was only temporarily unoccupied during the auction process.
Such corrections hold particular relevance in property reporting, where the presentation of a site can sway both bidding interest and public perception. Auction listings, especially for unique or seemingly ‘time warp’ properties, routinely attract widespread attention across social media and news outlets. However, outdated or misleading imagery can create a false narrative about what is actually on offer at auction.
The incident highlights the importance of editorial rigor, especially when reporting on real estate opportunities. As more auctions shift online and utilise digital galleries, the time-lag between photographs being taken and the present day can lead to discrepancies. Journalists are reminded of the need to confirm and update all details, particularly in fast-moving markets where stock may be cleared or properties refurbished in advance of sale.
It is also worth noting the impact that descriptions such as “abandoned” can have—not only on potential buyers’ expectations, but on the reputations of vendors or local neighbourhoods. The use of such language, if inaccurate, can unintentionally devalue a property, stir unfounded interest, or provoke concern among existing residents.
Wales Online’s handling of the matter—promptly issuing a public clarification and apology—reflects the standard practice for responsible journalism. Readers are reminded that news organisations will, at times, need to amend earlier stories as new facts become known or further details are provided by involved parties.
The episode serves as a timely reminder to both journalists and the public alike: visual information must be contextualised, timelines checked, and assumptions avoided when discussing properties in flux. It also underscores the dynamic nature of the real estate market and the value of transparency in media reporting.
Moving forward, it is expected that news outlets will continue to double down on verifying such details before publication, bolstering trust and accuracy in coverage of property and auction news across Wales and the UK more widely.