Sunningdale Park is expected to be empty by May 2017 and the Cabinet Office, who currently own the site, have announced they will look for a buyer from early 2015.

The entirety of the 71 acre park has no guide price and will be open to offers.

The Government admits it is 'likely’ a buyer will consider using the land to provide homes.

The development brief states: “We are keen to ensure that development that takes place at the site is sensitive to its heritage and setting.

“We have a responsibility to market the site for employment uses. However it is likely that conversion to residential will be explored by any potential buyer.” Gerald Eve, a property consultant firm, has been appointed by the Government Property Unit, to deal with the sale.

Residents were told the future of Sunningdale Park was under review in July 2013, and an information event earlier this month informed residents of the potential plans for the site, which is home to the grade-two listed mansion Northcote House.

Feedback to the plans stated 99% of residents felt sensitivity to the landscape and history of Northcote House was the most important issue to be considered, as well as protecting the Green Belt setting.

Ross Palmer, media officer at the Cabinet Office, said: “We are committed to getting value for money, and ensuring the long term development of the site both maximises the value and is appropriate to the setting of Sunningdale Park. “The site will not be vacant until 2017, so in taking it to the market early, we are ensuring there is sufficient time to develop a good quality future for the site.” The park was used as a civil service training facility until 2012 and has since been used by De Vere Venues as a hotel and conference centre. De Vere will continue to manage the site until it is sold