New Homes - Friday, September 29, 2006

Dartford, Kent

West Hill Park is attracting a lot of buyer attention. Barratt Homes is creating a wide range of apartments and houses within the ten-acre grounds of a Victorian former workhouse and hospital The developer is converting some of the original buildings into small business units, while the 230 new homes have been designed in contemporary, but complementary, style.
Outstanding Sales Success At Barratt’s West Hill Park, Dartford!

More than 200 people flocked to West Hill Park, Dartford when leading house builder, Barratt, opened the doors of its new sales and marketing suite.

Warm weather and plenty of entertainment for the children contributed to the ‘party atmosphere’ but several homebuyers were there to make sure they secured their chosen plots. As a result, one of the superb new homes was reserved immediately and a further two shortly afterwards. Six homebuyers were also sufficiently impressed to reserve properties ‘off-plan’ without even knowing the exact prices!

The early sales success of West Hill Park is due to a combination of factors including location, excellent transport links, good local shopping and leisure facilities and the fact that Indeed, there’s something to suit most homebuyers at West Hill Park.

The first phase of development includes 25 three-bedroom, three-storey townhouses which provide stylish open-plan living space and a separate kitchen on the ground floor, two double bedrooms and a main bathroom on the first floor and, on the uppermost floor, a master suite comprising a spacious double bedroom, shower room and dressing area. Prices start from £175,000 for a one bedroom apartment, £192,000 for a two-bedroom apartment and £285,995 for a three-bedroom house.
For further information please telephone the sales and marketing suite on 01322 287131. Information on all Barratt developments is available on the website: www.barratthomes.co.uk

Bentley Grove is a prestigious private development of 125 luxurious two and three bedroom apartments and three, four and five bedroom houses set in 28 acres of mature woodland in Stanmore, Middlesex.
The Arts & Craft style properties are situated on the site of The Grove Manor House, a former elegant villa on a grand estate whose past owners include Ernest Cassel, Edwina Mountbatten and Francis Cunard.
By car the M1 is less than two miles away; junction 4 northbound for the M25 and Heathrow, and junction 3 southbound for the North Cicular, A4, A1 and direct access to Central London.
Prices range from £374,950 for a three-bedroom house, from £589,950 for a four-bedroom house and from £799,950 for a five bedroom house.
The two and three bedroom apartments are to be released in September 2006.
 
For sales information contact the sales team on telephone: 0870 755 0833 or visit: www.bentleygrove.com


WATFORD MOVE BRINGS WITH IT A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE FOR TONY WILES

The award-winning Arena development proves the perfect location
for work and relaxation

It took several months of forensic searching for fingerprint consultant Tony Wiles to identify the place he would be happy to call his new home. During this time Tony, who was relocating to the Watford area from Central London for professional reasons, examined many types of properties from conversions to terrace houses, before Preston Bennett New Homes suggested that a two-bedroom apartment in the new Arena development by Clearview Homes might fit the bill.

Situated near the centre of Watford and priced from £172,950, Arena is a select, gated development that has proved a hit with professional buyers and recently won an award at the prestigious UK Daily Mail Property Awards. As well as excellent road and rail links to London, the location is convenient for supermarkets, Harlequin Shopping Centre and a host of restaurants, bars and entertainment options. Furthermore residents wishing to escape the bustle of modern life can enjoy relaxing walks through the woodlands or along the waterways of the Southern Chilterns countryside, which is practically on their doorstep.

According to Tony Wiles, these advantages were among the main factors that gave his new first-floor Arena apartment instant appeal. ‘Since moving to Arena, I have been amazed how quickly I have acquired a healthier lifestyle. As an example, I travel into Central London for work on a fairly regular basis. Now I no longer automatically jump into the car every day – as I did when I lived in the heart of London - preferring to walk to the station instead. And I also find it much easier than before to shop on foot and can walk into the town centre on evenings out.

‘I even spend my weekends more adventurously now, having discovered a great direct bus service to both Heathrow and Luton right at the end of my road.’

The stylish exterior of the Arena development with its distinctive pitched roof and the quiet position of the apartment were also key influences in Tony Wiles’ purchase decision, ‘I thought my previous place in Pimlico was large and that it would be hard to find something that would compare with it favourably. But the floor space at Arena is greater and the interior finishes superb. With an en suite to the master bedroom, built in wardrobes to both bedrooms and a very attractive open plan living space, my new apartment provides absolutely everything I need to live and work from home extremely comfortably.

‘Arena in my view represents excellent value for money and I’m glad that, after inspecting so many properties, I found a home that meets my needs so perfectly. I am also particularly grateful to Preston Bennett for the sound, impartial advice they provided throughout the buying process, and their unstinting willingness to respond to any query the instant it arose.’

For information on other exciting new developments in and around Watford, please contact Preston Bennett New Homes on Tel: 020 8954 8626 or visit www.prestonbennett.co.uk.

Dorking, Surrey

CALA Homes is selling Longfield Grove, which offers a wide range of properties including two-bedroom apartments and maisonettes, three-bedroom semi-detached houses and four-bedroom detached houses. Natural beauty is all around, yet high street shops are also nearby. The M25 is only seven and a half miles away, for quick connections. Prices currently start at £249,950. Call 01306 881822 or visit calahomes.co.uk.

Caterham, Surrey

Buxton Place by Try Homes comprises just 11 houses in a small cull-de-sac with accommodation ranging from two to four bedrooms. Home exchange is available, bringing a simplified moving process to those with a home on the market by removing complicated chains. Prices start at £315,000. To find out more call 020 3253 2017. The sales office is open Thursday to Monday, 10.30am to 5.30pm. Visit tryhomes.co.uk.

Bushey, Hertfordshire

FLEXIBLE LIVING FOR A FLEXIBLE LIFESTLE

It’s always said ‘you can never have enough choice,’ and this is something award-winning housebuilder Linden Homes agrees with wholeheartedly at its stunning Tantarra Place development on Herkomer Road in Bushey, where homeowners can choose from stylish homes or contemporary apartments.

The ingenious three bedroom townhouses are designed with flexibility in mind, adjusting to the needs of the individual. The ample space found over the three floors of these innovative homes, allows customers to adapt the multiple living spaces and bedrooms to their lifestyle.

For example, homebuyers have the ability to transform one of the bedrooms into a study, hobby room or simply a private retreat, away from the hassles of modern life.

Equally, the family room doubles as a space for entertaining or as an extended playroom, with French doors leading onto the garden, to help bring the outside inside.

Helen Todd, Sales and Marketing Director for Linden Homes Chiltern, comments: ‘As our lives become busier, we look for homes that can easily adapt to our particular requirements and offer a fuss-free lifestyle. The exceptional homes at Tantarra Place are the ultimate in low maintenance flexible living, putting control back into the hands of the customer. In addition, homebuyers who reserve at an early stage of construction can also choose many of the finishing touches, from kitchen units to paint colours, allowing them to personalise their homes even before they move in.’

The townhouses also offer a splendid specification, with granite worktops to the kitchen and integrated stainless steel appliances from De Dietrich. The bathrooms, meanwhile, are finished in modern, white sanitaryware and feature a contemporary thermostatic shower.

Tantarra Place is situated in the popular commuter town of Bushey, convenient for both superb local amenities and first class transport links. The M1 and M25 are both nearby, along with the town’s mainline station, with fast train services to London Euston.

Prices for the apartments start from £234,950 and homes from £439,950. Incentives* are currently being offered for those who reserve their new home off-plan.

For further information on Tantarra Place or to visit the Show Home, call the Marketing Suite on 020 8950 3952, which is open Thursday to Monday from 10am to 5pm, or visit the company website at lindenhomes.co.uk.

Iver, Buckinghamshire

A bold new colour scheme is proving a real hit with househunters at Kebbell Homes’ select development of luxury apartments in the village of Iver, following the launch of a brand new show apartment.
 
Sales staff at The Old Orchard are confident that the latest show apartment follows the lead set by two previous show properties at the development, both of which have sold within weeks of opening! And the striking contemporary styling of the apartment is already proving a hit, with one immediate sale and the last three properties not expected to remain on the market for much longer.
 
The show apartment is on the second floor of one of The Old Orchard’s two ‘manor house ’ buildings which have views over the magnificent trees and grounds of this delightful gated community. Designed for contemporary living, the apartment features a high specification kitchen with pale cream Alno units, contrasting granite work surfaces and integrated appliances, opening onto a well proportioned, light living room with dormer windows. A striking feature wall in a bold turquoise, with a contemporary wall-mounted fire display gives viewers a real feeling for how life would be in this chic new home.
 
The high specification continues throughout the apartment, with a stylish en-suite bathroom to the master bedroom and a good sized family bathroom, both beautifully detailed with soothing and subtle wall and floor tiling. The master bedroom is exceptionally light thanks to two large Velux windows, both of which are fitted with blinds, a spacious walk-in wardrobe and there is also a second double bedroom, for guests or use as a home office.
 
‘Our showhomes have a reputation for being stylishly equipped, and many people who buy our properties take inspiration from our interior schemes when they come to furnish their own homes,’ says Kebbell Homes’ Sales and Marketing Director, Gin Roaf. ‘We are confident that visitors will love the way we have furnished this new show apartment as it is so inviting and colourful – a place which is a pleasure to return to after a hard day and relax, chill out and enjoy!’
 
As a special incentive for purchasers of the remaining three two bedroom properties, Kebbell is offering their unique 80/20 assisted purchase scheme. Under the scheme, purchasers pay only 80% of the full asking price of £284950 at financial completion, (ie approximately £228,000) leaving the remaining 20% until they move again at which point Kebbell receives 20% of the sale price achieved. There are no payments to be made in the interim and no consequent burden on the mortgage repayments and the purchaser owns 100% of the property!
 
All three properties are competitively priced at £284,950 deferring the remaining £56,990 until the property is resold at some point in the future, there is no requirement as to when this will be.
 
The Old Orchard is located in the village of Iver – just a few minutes’ drive from the M25/M4 interchange – making it ideal for access to London and Heathrow Airport, as well as Slough and Staines. A direct mainline train link transports residents into the West End in 30 minutes. Local facilities – including a wide range of country pubs and restaurants, sports centres and golf clubs.
 
The show apartment and sales office are open Thursday to Monday (closed Tuesday and Wednesday) from 10.00am to 5.00pm. For further details, please contact the Sales Office off Bangors Road South on (01753) 655914 or, better still pay a visit. When the sales office is closed, please contact the sole selling agent, Glenn Flegg and Co on 01753 546655 or visit www.kebbell.co.uk
 

Affordable, stylish living just 16 minutes from the City

House hunters looking for town centre living at an affordable price should look at the stylish new apartments at Centreway in Ilford. Just a 16-minute train journey from Liverpool Street, these one and two-bed apartments feature fitted kitchens and spacious living rooms.
Built by award-winning developer Barratt Homes, Centreway is just off Ilford High Road, with all the shopping, entertainment and leisure facilities that a bustling centre offers. And if it’s relaxation you’re after, nearby Fairlop Waters and Hainault Forest are excellent places for walks and picnics and are also popular for water sports and fishing.

Ilford is a popular commuter town, well known as a pleasant and affordable alternative to buying in London. With such straightforward transport, City and Canary Wharf workers find that their commute is quicker than travelling across London to reach the capital’s business centres. Besides the quick journey into Liverpool Street, there is also a frequent First Great Eastern service into Stratford, for connections to the DLR as well as Jubilee and Central Line tubes.
The apartments are available through East Homes, part of the East Thames Group, under the New Build HomeBuy  scheme. Eleven of the 42 apartments (seven two-bedrooms and four one-bedrooms) remain available  to anyone living in Redbridge, with priority given to Redbridge public sector workers – including teachers, police officers, and health and social service employees.

Centreway is a landmark development in the centre of Ilford, rising with its clean, modern lines above surrounding buildings. It contains spacious apartments, some of which have stunning city views, and all with Juliet balconies. The contemporary styled kitchens incorporate a superb range of stainless steel appliances, while all the bathroom suites are beautifully co-ordinated and include heated towel rails.

The HomeBuy concept, formerly known as shared ownership, was developed to enable people to get a foot on the property ladder despite the fact that, even with a job with a regular income, they can’t afford a home on the open market. This scheme allows people to buy a share of the property – typically 40 to 50 per cent but it can be as low as 30 per cent - and pay rent on the remainder to the social landlord (in this case East Homes).
Once a purchaser completes their purchase on the property they can ‘staircase’ – that is, buy more equity from East Homes in stages until they can feasibly own the full 100 per cent. They can sell their share in the home whenever they wish – it will be sold at the full market price, and they will receive a share of the profits reflecting the percentage share they own.
Purchasers interested in Centreway properties are invited to contact the East Homes sales team on 020 8522 3434 or visit east-homes.co.uk.

Newly built has many advantages over previously owned. Johnny Turner looks at just a few of the current schemes with that something extra

FURNISHED FOR INSTANT STYLISH LIVING

For investors or first time buyers alike, furnishing a new apartment inevitably involves time, effort and expense. However, at The Sienna Building, Barking, Telford Homes is offering the ideal solution: a complete furniture package, carefully selected to provide quality and value, complementing the development’s stylish contemporary apartments.
The Sienna Building, situated close to the town centre of Barking, has 14 one and two bedroom apartments, accommodated in a three-storey building with a handsome brick façade and adding a contemporary twist, contrasting glazed and Cedar panels.  Residents benefit from many local transport links with just a ten minute walk to Barking railway and Underground station providing services to London Liverpool Street and Canary Wharf just a scheduled 23 minutes away.
Telford Homes has selected M & Y Interiors to provide a sample furniture package. M & Y has a wealth of experience in putting together comprehensive ranges of quality furnishings to match the needs of investors or first time buyers. To highlight this, and the space and quality of the apartments, a furniture package is displayed in the new show apartment, located on the ground floor of The Sienna Building.
One-bedroom apartments (now all sold) can be furnished for approximately £3,500 (plus VAT) while two bedroom apartments can be furnished for around £4,600 (plus VAT).  The option of kitchen and linen packs are available at a modest extra cost.
Sheena Ellwood, Sales and Marketing Director, Telford Homes comments: “The apartments at The Sienna Building are ideal for both first time buyers and investors alike, offering space and quality in a handy location at a competitive price. Together with M & Y interiors we have carefully thought out a furniture package that will appeal to its users while offering great value for money and durability. For investors, this means an unbeatable combination to attract quality tenants while first time buyers can achieve an affordable and comfortable solution to furnish their new home.“                                                             
The apartments feature an extensive and very spacious living area with an open-plan kitchen, while two-bedroom apartments have both bedrooms of similar size making them ideal for sharing. One of the remaining two bedroom apartments (the show home) has an en-suite bathroom in addition to a main bathroom. The living area in this apartment is very roomy, extending 18’ by 15’ 3”.  The ground floor apartments have private terraces accessible from the living areas via a sliding glass door, connecting outdoor and indoor living spaces, perfect for summer entertaining. Many of the apartments above have a Juliet balcony, permitting a lovely feeling of open space and fresh air.  Off-street parking is included with all except one of the remaining homes.

Quality specification features throughout The Sienna Building. Kitchens are comprehensively equipped with integrated appliances by Smeg, comprising oven, hob, canopy, dishwasher, (freestanding) fridge/freezer and washer/drier. Glass splash backs add a stylish finishing touch. All main bedrooms have mirrored fitted wardrobes. Ceramic floor tiling is provided for the kitchens and bathrooms while living rooms and hallways are in oak shade laminate and bedrooms have carpets in a neutral tone.

The Sienna Building benefits from a range of excellent local amenities.  Nearby Vicarage Fields Shopping Centre has numerous high street retailers along with a regular traditional street market.  Close to the scheme, there is also an abundance of local cafes, bars and pubs in which to socialise and unwind.
In terms of capital growth, properties in Barking have performed extremely well.  Average property prices in the area have experienced steady growth over recent months and risen a staggering 82.8% over the previous five years.  Average property prices currently stand at £187,823 up from £102,702 in 2001.
Six of the two bedroom apartments are available at The Sienna Building from £187,500.  For further information please contact Telford Homes on 087 087 209 87 or visit www.telfordhomes.plc.uk.
The new show apartment is open Thursday to Sunday, 10:00am - 5:00pm.  Outside these hours please call 087 087 209 87
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GET MORE THAN YOU BARGAINED FOR AT LOCKSLEY GARDENS

Its not often that you hear of a housebuilder actually giving money back to a customer, but that’s exactly what award-winning Linden Homes did, when Michael Adams and his girlfriend, Toni Itta, bought a stunning 3 bedroom townhouse at its Locksley Gardens development on Watmore Lane in Winnersh, Berkshire.

Mr Adams, a Project Manager for a construction company, knows good quality workmanship when he sees it, and after visiting three different developments, the couple decided that Locksley Gardens was the perfect choice:

“Locksley Gardens particularly appealed to us, as it is a select scheme with lots of space between the homes and located in an established setting. We had originally intended on buying somewhere run down, but the cost and the hassle that would have been involved put us off, so when we saw this development we were thrilled.”

The couple decided to take advantage of Linden’s excellent Part Exchange scheme: “Linden Homes completely exceeded my expectations. They offered me an excellent price for my existing home and it was sold in just 3 weeks. What I didn’t anticipate though was for the company to come back and offer me a goodwill gesture of £5000, as they made more money on the sale than was expected. I don’t know whether another developer would have been as honest, so it certainly came as a pleasant surprise.”

Linden also helped to personalize his new home, removing the need for redecoration: “The fact that we could choose everything we wanted for the house in terms of the kitchen units, tiling and flooring was a real bonus and meant we could put our stamp on our new home before we had even moved in. It really is our dream home.”

The two remaining semi-detached 4 bedroom homes at Locksley Gardens each come with designer fitted kitchens, which include an integrated double oven and fridge/freezer. The bathrooms enjoy pristine white sanitaryware from Armitage Shanks and stylish ceramic tiling.

Prices for the remaining homes range between £340,000 to £350,000. For further information on Locksley Gardens and the Part Exchange* scheme or the incentives* available when buying off-plan call the Sales and Marketing Suite open Thursday – Monday from 10am till 5pm on 0118 977 5758 or visit the company website at lindenhomes.co.uk.
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Make your first time memorable: Bellway offers ‘one stop shops’ for first time buyers at Waterford Gate, Aylesbury
   
Buying a home, with all of the associated legal and financial arrangements, can seem like a daunting experience to those preparing to step onto the property ladder for the first time. Bellway Homes is offering to make the experience that much easier for first time buyers in Buckinghamshire by holding a dedicated ‘First-time buyer’ weekend at its Waterford Gate development on the outskirts of Aylesbury.
 
Designed to provide first-time buyers with access to free expert advice, with advisors on hand to provide answers to all the questions they might want to ask, the event takes place on Saturday 30 September and Sunday 1 October at the Waterford Gate apartment development in the urban village of Fairford Leys, from 11am to 5pm.

 In addition to the first class independent advice on offer, people attending will be offered a host of deals and offers tailored to first-timers in a friendly, ‘no pressure’ atmosphere. They will also have the opportunity to view the two-bedroom show apartment at the development and refreshments will also be on offer.

Waterford Gate is Bellway’s latest scheme of two and three-bedroom apartments, designed to appeal to those seeking a slice of stylish ‘urban village’ living within easy reach of Aylesbury and London. Fairford Leys is contained within gated walls and includes amenities such as a health and fitness centre with swimming pool, and within the new village centre can be found a supermarket, bar/restaurant, hairdresser and takeaway.

Prices at Waterford Gate start from £176,000 for two-bedroom apartments with en-suite and secured allocated underground parking.

Minutes away from Aylesbury town centre, an hour from London by rail, and within easy reach of the M25, M40 and M1 motorways, Waterford Gate is ideally located for commuters.

Bellway Northern Home Counties Sales Director Chris Edginton said:

“Buying a new home can be a stressful process at the best of times, but for first-time buyers the whole experience can seem scary. Feedback from first-time buyers suggest that the jargon and legal terminology involved can be off-putting.

“We have organised this events as a response to this, as a one-stop shop for young people who could really benefit from putting their hard-earned money into property of their own rather than into a landlord’s pocket.

“One of the offers buyers can take advantage of is our popular ‘Move in for £99’ deal whereby buyers pay £99 to reserve their apartment and we then pay the 5% deposit, 1% stamp duty and legal fees up to £750 on their behalf.

“The offer is perfect for first time buyers who find it impossible to save for a deposit and have to live in rented accommodation, or at home with their parents. The money they save can be spent on stylish new furniture and electronic goods for their new homes!

“We are making it as easy as possible for people to own a stylish, spacious apartment of their own at this highly popular development.”

For further details about the first time buyer weekend please contact a sales advisor at Waterford Gate on 01296 394758.
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You Buy at The Hamptons

Rammy Sayed and his wife Kulsoon are big fans of The Hamptons, St James Homes’ parkland development in Worcester Park. They’ve already had two homes there: the first one rented and the second one, their own. A few months ago they got the keys to a brand new four-bedroom townhouse on the development.

The couple originally lived in Epsom in a two-bedroom flat, which they sold and then moved to The Hamptons to rent a four-bedroom house. “We just needed more space,” says Kulsoon, “and to begin with we thought renting at The Hamptons would be a stop-gap until we found a house we wanted to buy, back in Epsom.”
Rammy takes up the story: “We’d been here for nine months and really liked living here. We realized we would miss it, so we thought, why not buy at The Hamptons instead?”
It was an easy move. There was no looking around to do, except for selecting the exact plot they wanted. They also found St James Homes extremely helpful. “We knew they were good at customer service from when we moved into our rented house here,” says Rammy. “They sorted out any minor problems straight away, so we had full confidence in them when we decided to buy. In fact, that was one of the main reasons we did decide to buy here.”
Customer service was not the only factor that scored highly at The Hamptons. The Sayeds love the parkland setting, which extends to 30 acres and includes woodlands, lakes, tennis courts and even a natural amphitheatre. There’s also Maple Lodge, the community building with residents’ gym. Another attraction was the eclectic mix of architecture, which currently includes phases influenced by the styles of New England, East Anglia and, from this Autumn, Somerset. The Sayeds love all the different colours: the blues, greys and whites of the New England style clapboard homes, the gentle country hues and reflections at Norfolk Waterside. In the Autumn, the park really comes into its own, as St James Homes have planted many new trees, specially selected for their vivid leaf colours.
As a lifestyle development, The Hamptons is the ideal place for those looking for a change in lifestyle. For the Sayeds, having a garden for the first time has been a revelation, and apart from gardening, they’re spending much more time out of doors generally. Getting to work is pretty easy too. Rammy takes the train into London: it’s about half an hour from Worcester Park station. Kulsoon has a 15 minute drive to Epsom.

Their new house, with its four bedrooms, means there’s plenty of space for guests, especially Kulsoon’s mother, who usually stays with them for about six months of the year. Their friends also love it. “Some of our friends are seriously thinking about buying at The Hamptons too,” says Kulsoon. “That would be great. There’s already a good sense of community here, so it would be nice to have old friends and new ones close by. Buying at The Hamptons has been a really positive move for us.”

Prices at the current phase of The Hamptons, Somerset Quarter range from £360,000 for a three bedroom house to £565,00 for a four bedroom detached house. For more information on The Hamptons, please contact the Sales and Marketing Suite on 020 8337 3425.  Information on The Hamptons is also available on the website on www.thehamptons.co.uk.

Essex has several advantages when it comes to buying a home. Johnny Turner looks at properties for sale
Buyers who are looking for the perfect home will find much to celebrate in the commuter towns, villages and seaside hamlets of Essex. Coastline, convenience for working in London, beautiful countryside – these are just a few of the reasons that this county is so popular.
The current new homes market is full of

LAST CHANCE FOR DETACHED LUXURY AT HARVARD GRANGE

Countryside Properties is offering homebuyers the final opportunity to purchase a home at Harvard Grange, its award-winning development in Stock, Essex.  Homerton House, a luxurious five bedroom detached home is now the only property remaining, and it is carpeted, fully furnished and ready to move straight into!

Arranged over three floors, Homerton House comprises 3,620 sq. ft. of living accommodation and is approached through an automated gated entrance with a gravel driveway. This elegantly designed development is surrounded by established trees which add maturity and character to the beautiful setting.

Yvonne Hudson-Green, Sales and Marketing Director of Countryside Properties, comments: “Homerton House really is a rare property.  New government planning policy has meant that building large new homes with extensive grounds has almost become a thing of the past.  As a result, new properties such as Homerton House will become increasingly sought-after, and this is one of the last opportunities to purchase a brand new home of this size and specification within a development such as Harvard Grange.”

The interior of the home combines the best of modern style with traditional features including sash windows and stunning double height spaces.  The generous gardens also offer extensive lawns which have been professionally landscaped.
The ground floor comprises a large kitchen and breakfast room with separate laundry room, dining room, study and a family room which offers views across the garden.
The first floor offers a stylish, formal drawing room which provides the perfect place for either private relaxation or entertaining guests.
The first floor is also home to an exceptional master bedroom suite which features a separate dressing room and an en-suite bathroom. The two further bedrooms on this floor both include en-suites.  
 
Two additional large bedrooms, one of which has its own en-suite, reside on the second floor.  
Harvard Grange is superbly situated for commuters with London Liverpool Street only a 30 minute train journey from nearby Ingatestone station.  The development is also just three miles from the A12 and 14 miles from the M25.

Homerton House at Harvard Grange is on the market for £1,650,000.  The furniture can be separately negotiated. To make an appointment to view or for further information please call Beresfords Estate Agents on 01277 350 505 or visit www.harvardgrange.co.uk

COUNTRYSIDE PROPERTIES UNVEILS CONTEMPORARY HOMES AT SAFFRON GREEN

Countryside Properties has opened the doors to two stunning new show homes at its latest development, Saffron Green on Peaslands Road, in the heart of Saffron Walden.

Saffron Green is a collection of 55 homes comprising a mix of contemporary two bedroom apartments and two, three and four bedroom homes, including 14 affordable properties.  

The two four bedroom show homes ‘The Vanguard’ and ‘The Lorne’ have a stylish interior design, contemporary fitted kitchens with double ovens and fully integrated kitchen appliances, and sleek modern bathrooms.  This, combined with the fine finish detailing, means they are built to exceed today’s living requirements and will hold their appeal well into the future.

Saffron Green also includes a full-size football pitch (designed to meet both Sport England and National Playing Fields Association standards), together with a hard court games area, play area, informal public open space and a sports pavilion with changing area and a car park.

Chris Crook, Subsidiary Managing Director for Countryside Properties commented: “Interest in Saffron Green has been great. The homes have sensitively designed to blend in with Saffron Walden’s historic character and coupled with an outstanding location they are proving extremely popular. The football pitch and other sports facilities make this a perfect place for a family home.”

Prices at Saffron Green start from £216,950 for a two bedroom apartment up to £348,950 for a three bedroom home. For more information, please contact the sales office on 01799 523191 or visit www.saffrongreen.co.uk
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East Anglia-based Hopkins Homes, is  currently building two extremely commutable developments in Essex. Lawford Park, located on the outskirts of Lawford approximately one mile from Manningtree station, offers quality as well as convenience.
Set within 16 acres of landscaped grounds, formerly belonging to a grand private mansion, this exclusive development offers a selection of just 47 homes. Within the totally refurbished former manor house there will be two- and three-bedroom apartments, and there will also be beautifully crafted three-, four- and five-bedroom houses. The City is only 66 minutes away by train.
The sales office is open Thursday to Sunday 10am to 5pm and Monday from 1pm to 5pm. Call 07766 306672.

Meanwhile, in Colchester, Hopkins Homes' Trinity Heights development is only two minutes' walk from Colchester station, from where trains into London take 51 minutes. The location makes it ideal for City workers.
The superb selection of two-, three- and four-bedroom properties now under construction will provide opportunities for both first-time buyers who want to get their feet on the property ladder and existing home owners in search of a larger home with easy access to the city.
Sales office hours are as Lawford Park. Call 01206 843054 or see hopkinshomes.co.uk.
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Nelsons Quarter is an intimate development comprising just 20 exclusive apartments overlooking the Clacton sea front, with selected plots benefiting from balconies, verandas, allocated parking and lifts.   
Located on Marine Parade, Nelson’s Quarter is close to town centre and all local amenities.  Commuters can also have the best of both worlds with the apartments situated in close proximity to both the A133 and the railways station.  
Completions are expected in late 2006. Prices for one bedroom apartments start from £144,750 and from £177,750 for a two bedroom apartment.  For further information on the properties available, contact agents Spicer McColl on 01255 222666 or visit www.persimmonhomes.com.
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Telford Homes has launched the residential element of The Market Place, an exciting £40 million mixed-use, mixed-tenure regeneration project in Romford.
The project will transform a 3.5-acre site on the northern edge of Romford's famous open-air market. A combined project with Beadie Group's Pickenham (Romford) Ltd and contractors Carillion, Telford Homes is marketing the scheme's 89 private sale one- and two-bedroom apartments; Hazeleigh House, which contains the first 24 properties, is now available for purchase.
The scheme's sales centre and show apartment, located on Market Link in the town centre, are now open. Here potential purchasers have the opportunity to view the development's floor plans and specification as well as seeing a scale model representing the overall town centre redevelopment.
The apartments at the scheme are contemporary in design and feature a modern open-plan layout. The style and finish of all apartments at The Market Place will be to the excellent standard associated with the award-winning Telford Homes brand; fully fitted kitchens are complete with integrated appliances by Smeg, while bathrooms feature pure white suites by Roca, finished with polished chrome Logica taps and fittings.
The Market Place offers potential residents
a prime central location in the heart of Romford's town centre. The rejuvenated Market Place will encompass some 40,000 square feet of retail and leisure space as well, including offices, leisure facilities and a restaurant.
As part of the project, the indoor Market Hall is also being replaced by a brand new purpose-built facility. In addition, just minutes from the development are three shopping centres featuring popular retailers, restaurants, cafés and bars.
Transport links are excellent: Romford mainline station is just a ten-minute walk from The Market Place and provides commuters with quick, efficient services to Stratford (eight minutes) and London Liverpool Street station (17 minutes).
The development is also just a short drive from junction 29 of the M25, providing easy access to the UK motorway network.
For further information call Telford Homes on 087 087 209 87 or visit telfordhomes.plc.uk.
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PLANNING GRANTED FOR THE FIRST PHASE OF EBBSFLEET VALLEY

Leading developers Countryside Properties and Land Securities have received planning permission from Gravesham Borough Council for the first phase of Springhead Park at Ebbsfleet Valley in the Thames Gateway.   

Marking the beginning of the residential development at Ebbsfleet Valley, this first collection of homes comprises a mixture of 388 contemporary style one and two bedroom apartments and two, three and four bedroom homes.  
In total Springhead Park will provide over 600 homes with a large one hectare park, community centre, place of worship, a doctor’s surgery and primary school.  25% of the homes will be available through housing associations as affordable homes.
Tony Travers, Subsidiary Managing Director of Countryside Properties, says: “We are delighted that planning permission has been granted for the first phase of Springhead Park.  This is an important part of the new development in Kent Thameside and will create high quality homes and facilities.  We are looking forward to beginning work on this new community in January.”

Steve Atkins, Development Manager for Land Securities, says: “This first phase of Ebbsfleet Valley is an important milestone in the regeneration of the area, we are delighted to have received planning permission so that we are now able to begin work.”
Springhead Park is located just a five minute walk from the new International and Domestic station, Ebbsfleet International, which is scheduled to receive Eurostar trains by autumn next year.  Domestic services are due to begin during 2009 and this will bring London within a 17 minute journey time.
With work beginning on site in January 2007, it is anticipated that the first properties at Springhead Park will be available for occupation in March 2008.

NB: completion in Feb/March 07.

One of Britain’s most prolific property investors today sealed a deal worth over £30 million to buy a luxury apartment development in the middle of London’s Docklands.
 
The purchase of 102-apartments at Limehouse Basin – just five minutes from Canary Wharf – is Summertime Properties’ first major deal in the capital.
 
Until now Summertime, and its 34-year-old managing director Manoj Raithatha, have been best known for large-scale property purchases in the North of England.
 
Last year alone Summertime acquired property worth more than £100m in a string of deals, including buying £35m of apartments in Leeds in one day.
 
Earlier this year Manoj, who won a Bafta for writing a hit children’s TV series, revealed family-owned Summertime’s ambitious plans to buy 1,500 apartments in London.  The last acquisition, bought off plan, is the first stage in Summertime’s blueprint for the capital.

The Limehouse Basin deal is the final phase in the development of one, two and three-bed apartments and penthouses, overlooking Limehouse Marina.

 The apartments are large – a typical two bedroom is 900sq ft and all have balconies. There’s also lots of parking and the properties are finished to a high specification.

Summertime believes Limehouse is in a prime position to benefit from the spin-offs from London’s Olympic Games – as well as the city’s continuing growth as a world financial center.

Manoj said today: “Summertime is delighted at the purchase of this high-quality development in a fantastic location. The size of the apartments was a major attraction to us, plus their high quality internal and external design.
 
“Sitting between Canary Wharf and the City, the corporate lettings market in the area is just fantastic.
 
“It is five minutes away from Canary Wharf and seven or so minutes from Bank underground station. You are within striking distance of the City and the West End.”
 
He added: “The London market is moving up and there are a lot of reasons for that.
 
“Bonuses in the City continue to grow, which affects spending power, and by next year there will be almost 20,000 more workers in the City.
 
“London’s reputation as a world financial centre just keeps getting stronger and stronger and add to that the effect the Olympics is going to have, not just in the Stratford area.

“We’re looking forward to launching the Limehouse apartments on the market shortly.”
 
Summertime Properties is using the same proven formula that has been so successful in the North of England for its London operation.  The firm has a reputation for buying the best and seeking out a combination of quality location, high specification and competitive price.

The company specialises in buying properties off-plan and in bulk with benefits that are then passed to its many smaller investors.
 
It has invested in cities such as Leeds, Bradford, Newcastle, Manchester and Sheffield – driven by the renaissance in city living and the vast amounts of regeneration investment being pumped into creating new homes on former industrial sites.
 
Details of the latest deal and Summertime’s other properties
across the UK can be obtained by logging onto
www.summertimeproperties.com or by calling 0845 402 7076.

Reading

St James Homes announces an exciting new release of homes at the very popular Kennet Island development. This latest phase of two- and three-bed houses has just now been released, and buyers hoping to snare a home here will have to act quickly. The new phase marks the first appearance at Kennet Island of a new-style property, the town suite, a pied-a-terre-style a living space ideal for the first time buyer. At Kennet Island, all homes have been built with the objective of suiting the lifestyle of everyone, be it a family or the first-time buyer. It is this focus that has been responsible for the development’s success in previous phases: buyers have queued overnight to secure their plot and the first 84 homes released sold with breathtaking speed. Town suites are priced from just £115,000, while two-bedroom houses are priced from £207,500 to £219,950 and three-bedroom houses range from £237,500 to £280,000. Following the great interest in the enviro-home from the previous phase, St James has launched pv/solar tiles as standard on two or the new three-bedroom homes.
 
The interesting point with this latest phase of houses is, that following the successful launch of their envirohome a couple of months ago - and interest being so high, they have included pv/solar tiles as standard on two of the three bed houses.
 
They've also just launched a new style property on Kennet Island - the Kennet Island 'town suite' (see extract from release below).
 
Making the first step on the property ladder for many is becoming nigh on impossible as house prices just keep on rising. The need for reasonably priced housing is greater now than ever before which is why we’ve launched ‘The Town Suite’, a living space ideal for the first time buyer.

Through clever architectural design, space and quality are maximised in The Town Suite, whilst offering consumers great value for money, with prices starting from just £115,000. These ‘pied a terre’ style, one-bedroomed apartments include a fully fitted kitchen, shower room, combined living and dining space and subject to the individual plot, a balcony”.
Wexham

KINGSOAK OFFERS EXCUSIVE FAMILY LIVING WITH THE LAUNCH OF
OLD ORCHARD, WEXHAM

Latest Slough area scheme set to become popular with discerning family buyers looking for a great new family home and also enjoy a round of golf? Then why not head to KingsOak Thames Valley’s newly launched development, Old Orchard, a select new scheme of just 12 homes at Wexham, which are within easy reach of the acclaimed Wexham Park Golf Course.

Perfect for discerning families, Old Orchard offers a choice of three, four and six-bedroom homes set on the edge of beautiful parkland and countryside. Located in the village of Wexham, just two miles from the centre of Slough town and all its many amenities, the development has a relaxed, peaceful setting at one of the area’s most sought-after locations.

The development was only launched on 8th July 2006 however, in that time scores of potential buyers have visited have visited and KingsOak Thames Valley has already seen 25% of the site sold. Staking your claim early means you can have your pick of the plots, choose a variety of fixtures and fittings, and also benefit from great, pre-showhome prices too:

“This fantastic new scheme is ideal for families,” said Bob Rutherford, Sales and Marketing Director for KingsOak Thames Valley. “As well as offering a choice of spacious, substantial family homes, it is also within easy reach of many well-considered schools. Those commuting will also find it easy to travel to the centre of London, thanks to the fast train connections nearby.”
Golfing enthusiasts can also enjoy a round on a choice of three, challenging nine and 18-hole courses at Wexham Park Golf Course, which is just a short distance from the new scheme.
Each home at Old Orchard includes a designer fitted kitchen with a wealth of built-in appliances, and a master bedroom with an en-suite shower room. Other noteworthy features include a classic white bathroom suite with chrome fittings, gas central heating, turfed front and rear gardens plus a ten year NHBC warranty.
Wexham brings the benefits of country living together with the convenience of a nearby town living as Slough is just two miles away. Offering three shopping centres with a host of high street and designer shops, the Montem Leisure Centre for sporting pursuits, a cinema, bars and restaurants, Wexham to Slough is ideally situated for family life.
The village sits conveniently off the A4 and A412 within a short drive of junctions 1 and 2 of the M4 allowing easy access to Heathrow Airport. In addition, Slough station provides services into London Paddington in as little as 20 minutes.
Prices at Old Orchard currently start at £324,995 for a 3 bedroom hose. For further details, and to visit the newly launched scheme please telephone 01753 579 282. The marketing suite is open from 10am – 6pm daily. Alternatively, log onto www.kingsoakhomes.co.uk.

Reading

Reading has been cited as one of the UK’s top ten property investment hotspots according to Channel 4’s ‘Where Best to Invest’, presented by Phil Spencer and Kirstie Allsopp. Their research found that average house prices in the area have risen by 197% in the last ten years, compared to the 192% national average.
As part of Reading’s future plans and aspiring city status, award winning developer Crest Nicholson (Chiltern) Ltd is creating Q. This is a cutting edge development comprising one, two and three bedroom apartments on Queens Road in the centre of Reading that has all the hallmarks of a potentially excellent investment.
Two landscaped roof terraces on the fifth and eighth floors will provide residents with superb views across Reading towards the countryside. These views can also be enjoyed from the terraces of selected apartments.
Q is set to become a landmark site for this cosmopolitan town, with its striking architecture and extraordinary use of glazed art on the façade, by leading London glass designer, Kate Maestri.
Two bedroom apartments are priced from £234,950.
For more information on Q, contact the sales office on telephone: 0870 755 1645 or visit www.crestnicholson.com

Reading

Shinfield Park by KingsOak Thames Valley features an exclusive choice of 310 one- and two-bedroom apartments and three-, four-, five- and six-bedroom homes. There is easy access to the M3 and M4 motorways, making the location ideal for those who work in central Reading, London or elsewhere in the South East. Reading itself also features a wealth of shopping, entertainment and leisure options, including the Oracle shopping centre. Current prices start at just £176,995 for a one-bedroom apartment and £299,995 for a three-bedroom house. For further information on current incentives, including part exchange, legal fees and stamp duty paid on selected plots, please telephone 0118 975 1267. Alternatively, visit kingsoakhomes.co.uk.

The perfect home requires three things close by: transportation, transportation, transportation

Luxury housebuilder, Modern City Living, has once again joined forces with niche property developer, londonewcastle, to develop a collection of unique apartments located in the heart of Islington, N7.

Located just off Liverpool Road, near Angel Underground Station, Arundel Square, comprising 127 units, is due to launch for public release in late 2006. The development will consist of 97 apartments available for private sale and will also provide private car parking and gated access.
Jeffery Adams, Chief Executive of Modern City Living, commented:
‘‘This particular joint venture with londonewcastle is an exciting one.  Although many of our past developments have been located in the West End, this is the first time we have broken ground in Islington, which has opened many doors for us in terms expanding future developments throughout the City.  Working with londonewcastle is always a joy; we share the same vision and strive to provide the very best product to our purchasers.’’
Modern City Living is a specialist urban developer that operates in vibrant, up and coming City locations.  The company pride itself on bringing together award winning architects, space designers and interior designers to deliver fresh, funky living spaces for the modern day city dweller. 

Homes by Modern City Living are ideal for main residences, pied-a-terres, and rental investment, and the housebuilder is experienced in regeneration, mixed-use and mixed-tenure development.
londonewcastle is a specialist developer focusing on design-based projects with the aim of creating productive, stimulating and healthy environments.  londonewcastle
believes that creativity; adventure, lateral thinking and experience are defining characteristics and are vital to providing unique identities for each development.
The combination of the two developers at Arundel Square will be an exciting union of complementary talent.

Queensgate

Developer: KingsOak North London
Location: Watford, Hertfordshire

Get closer to a brand new lifestyle that awaits you at Queensgate, a stylish new collection of one and two bedroom apartments and duplex penthouses available in the heart of Watford.
Located just yards from the town centre means you are never far away from shopping, leisure and entertainment that makes people from all over Hertfordshire and London visit this vibrant town. You are just yards from the Harlequin Centre, offering two floors of over one hundred and thirty designer and high street shops.
There are a choice of private fitness centres including Sportz Academy with state of the art equipment, gyms and workout classes. For nightlife, you are equally spoilt for choice, with an abundance of bars, bistros and restaurants, Jongleurs comedy club for upfront comedy, the newly refurbished Palace Theatre and the multi screen cinema and leisure facilities of Woodside Leisure Park are just snapshots of what Watford has to offer.
You'll also benefit from excellent travel links in this highly commutable location. Just twenty miles from the City and approximately twenty three minutes by train from Watford Junction to London Euston, hours once spent commuting are a thing of the past. For road travel the A41, M1(J5) and M25(J19) are all within five miles for travel in and around Hertfordshire, London, and further afield to the West and the North.
The specification of Queensgate befits the quality design and location. Designer fitted kitchens with stainless steel oven, chimney extractors and hobs, spacious living/dining rooms with some providing doors onto balconies or terraces, modern white bathroom suites with chrome fittings, video entry phone and private allocated parking all go on to make these stunning apartments a new landmark in Watford.
For further information for further information please telephone the Sales Office on 01923 256 538.  Alternatively you can visit www.kingsoakhomes.co.uk. 
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The comuting corridor served by London Marylebone is very popular, offering both the beauty of the Chiltern Hills and the convenience of a straightforward journey into the capital. With KingsOak’s Spring Gardens development in High Wycombe, buyers have a choice of town houses and apartments on Pinions Road.

Commuters will be pleased that there are excellent communications to the Capital, the Midlands and beyond. There is a regular train service to London Marylebone in around thirty five minutes or Birmingham in less than ninety minutes. The national motorway network is also easily accessible as is London Heathrow airport which is just nineteen miles away.

Spring Gardens feature a range of apartments and townhouses on Pinions Road, High Wycombe.  The development is conveniently close to a range of facilities and amenities including the fantastic shopping opportunities at the town’s new regeneration scheme, the Eden Project, which will bring new stores, a town square, a library and entertainment destinations to the doorstep.

Prices at Spring Gardens currently start at £209,995 for a one bedroom apartment and just £434,995 for a four-bedroom townhouse.  For further details, please telephone the sales office on 01494 459985.
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Twenty Two, North Chingford:

Twenty Two is an exclusive, gated development comprising just 13 luxury one and two bedroom apartments and penthouses. The development is perfect for those looking for a secluded, luxury apartment within easy reach of local boutiques and restaurants, as well as central London. The journey time from Chingford station to London Liverpool Street is approximately 28 minutes.

Twenty Two is set within landscaped communal gardens and combines sleek contemporary architecture with luxurious open plan interiors. Many apartments feature glass-fronted terraces or Juliette balconies, with panoramic views of Chingford’s public 18-hole golf course and the backdrop of Royal Epping Forest.

Stylish designer interiors include Urban Myth kitchens with high quality Smeg appliances and Siemens appliances to the penthouses.  The development also offers secure allocated parking.

Prices: from £250,000 for a one bedroom apartment and £299,950 for a two bedroom apartment
Sales Contact:  Higgins Homes on telephone: 020 8508 6000 or visit www.higginshomes.co.uk.
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“Coming Soon – More apartments in Tonbridge by Fernham Homes”

Specialist housebuilder Fernham Homes is proving itself time and again as they focus on a new development in Tonbridge. The company has a fantastic record of accomplishment in this area and the stunning apartments at Consort Place on Albert Road look to cement this image further still.

A contemporary collection of 8 one bedroom apartments and two bedroom duplex apartments, Consort Place is ideal for first time buyers and commuters, situated within easy reach of the train station and the wide variety of shops, trendy cafes and bars on offer in Tonbridge town centre.  

Ideally located, the town’s large park is just a few minutes walk and for fitness fanatics it is also just a few minutes from Peak Fitness gym and the Angel leisure centre.

David Masters, Director of Fernham Homes Ltd, comments: “We have an enviable reputation for developments of this kind within the town. Unlike many builders, regardless of the size of the development we will not compromise on quality and these apartments are no exception. Each will benefit from a sleek, modern design and an impeccable finish, perfect for young professionals or savvy investors.”

He continues “In an area where there is such high demand for new homes, I recommend those interested in the scheme to contact us as soon as possible to register their interest, before they are snapped up on the open market.”

Consort Place will also feature Fernham’s usual fantastic contemporary specification.  Enjoying typical Georgian style town-house elevations, some of the apartments will have allocated parking and additional space for motorcycles.

Register your interest for these superior apartments with Fernham Homes now, on 01622 755388, or visit the Fernham Homes website at www.fernham-homes.co.uk
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Keston Woods, Old Coulsdon, Surrey:

Keston Woods is a collection of 21 two-storey and chalet-style houses surrounded by mature trees and woodland. There is a regular train service from Coulsdon and Whyteleafe into both London Bridge and Victoria train stations which take between 20 and 30 minutes. Old Coulsdon is also minutes away from the A23 dual carriageway that leads to the M25 and directly to the M23, for easy access to Gatwick International Airport.

Externally, the timber framed properties are designed using traditional red brick.  Some properties have first floor gabled windows to reflect the local architectural style.  Many houses have integral garages and there is plenty of parking space immediately outside the properties. Inside, generous ground floor layouts typically comprise an open-plan kitchen, some with adjoining family/breakfast rooms as well as a living room or combined living room/dining area with French doors that lead out into the garden.

Old Coulsdon has an excellent range of local village shops. A comprehensive local bus service provides regular and rapid access to the entire area so that the shops, restaurants, leisure centres and cinemas in the nearby towns of Coulsdon, Purley, Warlingham and Caterham can be easily reached.

Prices: from £322,500 for a two bedroom home
Sales Contact: Antler Homes on telephone: 01737 559 562 or visit: www.antlerhomes.co.uk
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Woodgate Mews, Watford

Award winning new homes developer Banner Homes has just three properties left at its popular Woodgate Mews development off Langley Road in Watford, that are ready for immediate occupation.

There is just one house and two apartments remaining at the development, which contains eight four bedroom townhouses and 14 two bedroom apartments.  Shelley West, sales manager for Banner Homes says; “The success of this development proves once again how popular Watford is as an area to live in.  The homes here have sold very quickly, as have other Banner Homes developments in the area in the past.  Watford is a very good area, with excellent facilities, good schools and great travel connections.”

Woodgate Mews is an exclusive development ideally located for everything Watford has to offer. Each apartment has allocated parking, with lifts servicing all floors, and the townhouses have the luxury of private garages as well as additional parking facilities.  All properties contain Banner’s high standard of fixtures and fittings, including professionally designed kitchens, stylish white bathroom sanitary ware and co-ordinating fitted wardrobes, as well as the latest in modern technology.

Watford boasts excellent travel connections nestling between the M25 (junction 19) and the M1 (junction 5) motorways. The mainline train station is less than five minutes from Woodgate Mews, from where a 20 minute train journey provides easy access to London Euston. Watford Underground also provides fast and frequent services into the capital.  

What’s more, buyers have the opportunity to move stress-free, courtesy of the Banner Homes Premier Part Exchange Scheme.  The scheme provided at Woodgate Mews is the ideal way to move into a brand new home and ensures that the move happens without the delay and uncertainty of selling an existing property yourself. Identical completion dates for both existing and new homes eliminates the need to consider temporary accommodation or bridging facilities, and ensures you can secure the home you wish to buy well in advance of the build completion date.

All the remaining properties at Woodgate Mews come complete with curtains and carpets and are ready for immediate occupation.  Prices at Woodgate Mews range from £295,000 - £515,000.  The show apartment is open Thursday and Monday between 10.00am and 5.00pm.  For further information please contact the show apartment on 01923 250727 or contact the selling agents Preston Bennett on 0208 954 8626.  Alternatively please visit the Banner Homes website at www.bannerhomes.co.uk.
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With climate change, global warming and pollution currently on the political agenda, the Government is urging home owners to think about their own impact on the environment and ways to get cars off the roads.

As part of its commitment to sustainable development, Crest Nicholson (Chiltern) Ltd has employed a ‘Travel Plan’ at Bentley Grove, its residential scheme in Stanmore, Middlesex.

The three-part Travel Plan will be available to all residents of Bentley Grove and aims to help the local environment by minimising congestion, pollution and local parking problems.  Residents will have access to a car sharing initiative, as part of the West London Car Share Scheme. There will also be a member’s Car Club with two pool cars and a bicycle scheme with five pool bicycles for the residents to use.

Each resident will also receive a Local Travel Information Pack detailing the local travel services and amenities in Stanmore. Stanmore has excellent travel links including a jubilee line underground station, currently being upgraded, from which the West End and Canary Wharf can be reached in 30 minutes and 51 minutes respectively*. There is also a very good local bus service. The M1 is less than two miles away with links to the M25, the North Circular, the A41 and the A1. For those wanting to go further a field, Heathrow Airport is 28 miles away.
Stanmore Development Helps Ease Congestion…
Bentley Grove is a prestigious private development of 125 luxurious two and three bedroom apartments and three, four and five bedroom houses set in 28 acres of mature woodland.
The Arts & Craft style properties are situated on the site of The Grove Manor House, a former elegant villa on a grand estate whose past owners include Ernest Cassel, Edwina Mountbatten and Francis Cunard.
Helen Watts, sales manager, Crest Nicholson (Chiltern) comments: “We expect the Travel Plan to be well received, particularly by commuters or those that otherwise, wouldn’t have the benefit and convenience of access to a car or bicycle.”
Stylish interiors feature fully fitted kitchens in a choice of contemporary colours and styles with granite worktops and De Dietrich appliances. In the bathrooms, high quality Villeroy & Boch bathrooms are complemented by Hansgrohe fittings.
Prices range from £374,950 for a three-bedroom house, from £589,950 for a four-bedroom house and from £799,950 for a five bedroom house.
The two and three bedroom apartments are to be released in September 2006.

For sales information contact the sales team on telephone: 0870 755 0833 or visit: www.bentleygrove.com

City & Country Group creates new homes from an Edwardian classic

Restoration and conversion specialist City & Country Group has received planning permission to enhance its original conversion plans at Herringswell Manor, an impressive Grade II listed manor house located on the fringes of the Suffolk village of Herringswell, creating a total of 52 apartments and cottages. The new proposals will provide an exciting and more appropriate mix of accommodation that befits this magnificent historic site and caters for the increasing market demand for high-quality accommodation in historic and mature landscapes.

Dating back to 1901, the manor house is set in 8.4 acres and was built in a mock Tudor style. Starting as a family home, the manor was converted into a boarding school. More recently, the Shi Tennoji Japanese School was located here until its closure in 2001. The new plans include additional homes in the former dormitories, including 30 stunning two- and three-bedroom apartments, the conversion of the Japanese temple into four houses and the transformation of the Archery Court into a beautiful three-bedroom house.

Tim Sargeant, chief executive of City & Country Group, comments: ‘This recent planning decision will provide homes of the utmost quality in this increasingly popular and rural East Anglian location. The additional homes bring previously developed land and buildings back into beneficial use, in line with national and local development policies, without affecting the architectural integrity of this important manor house. As a company we are committed to the preservation and restoration of historical buildings and aim to ensure renewed life for Herringswell Manor for the enjoyment of future generations.’
Herringswell Manor has just launched to the public. Prices are from £245,000.
For further information contact City & Country Group on 01279 818900 or visit herringswellmanor.co.uk.

Rotherhithe, London

The Water Gardens is a development of 242 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments including live/work units, situated in six individual buildings designed around a relaxing central garden. These properties are ideal for investors and owner-occupiers alike, offering a combination of commuter convenience and modern style. The central garden area has reflection pools, lawns, walkways and seating areas to provide a relaxing atmosphere and a tranquil retreat from city life. There is also has added benefit of underground parking as well as 9,200 sq ft of commercial space which has been allocated for potential office, retail, café or health and fitness use. Prices range from £350,000 for a spacious two-bedroom apartment to £670,000 for a three-bedroom penthouse, comparing well against apartments with a similar specification across the river in Canary Wharf. Call the marketing suite, located on Deal Porters Way, on 0845 606 6929 or visit thewatergardens.co.uk.

Woolwich, London

MyHQ, the largest of the refurbished buildings at Berkeley Homes’ Royal Arsenal development has opened two new show apartments designed by Karina Sundgren of Roomservice. Apartments at have pre-wiring for satellite TV, underground parking, a 24-hour concierge and CCTV monitoring. Prices at the second phase of MyHQ start at £190,000 for a one-bedroom apartment, £235,000 for two bedrooms, and £295,000 for three bedrooms. Call 020 8331 7272.

Finchley, London

Linden’s 96 Torrington Park is a select development of one- and two-bedroom apartments combining sleek, modern interiors with traditional architectural detailing. The spacious two-bedroom show apartment has an open-plan feel, with a large balcony, separate kitchen and access to a shared landscaped garden at the rear. Finchley town centre is nearby, providing great shops and transport. Two-bedroom apartments start at £330,000. Call 01895 827447.

Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire

A new show apartment has just been launched at Bryant Homes' The Square at Grand Central, conveniently located adjacent to the station. The selection of apartments ranges from one to three bedrooms, perfect for first time buyers or investors. And Bryant Homes currently offers a fantastic financial package of 12 months mortgage or rental paid, plus five per cent deposit, one per cent stamp duty and £1,000 towards legal fees. Prices from £166,950. Call 01296 399320.

Didcot, Oxfordshire

KingsOak Homes is selling Vintners Place, where buyers will find a range of homes from two-bedroom apartments to family houses in a very sought-after commuter belt area. The location is excellent with a convenient mainline train service to Paddington taking around 45 minutes. Prices for the two-bedroom apartments start at £222,995 while three-bedroom houses are priced from £319,995. Call 01235 536123 or see kingsoakhomes.co.uk.

Addlestone, Surrey

Intro Homes has released 15 new one- and two-bedroom apartments at Navigation House on Hamm Moor Lane. Located near the Wey Navigation canal, the development is ideally located between Addlestone and Weybridge offering a range of entertainment and excellent transport links from Weybridge, but priced in line with the more affordable Addlestone market. Prices start at £199,950. Call 0800 169 6679 to find out more.


Hackney, London

Places for People continues its commitment to creating sustainable communities at Kleine Wharf, a mixed-use, modern and affordable development. It brings back into use a quarter-hectare derelict site which was once home to the Kleine manufacturing company alongside Regent’s Canal. The result is a vibrant mixed-use, mixed-tenure development with private sale apartments, affordable rented homes, affordable workspace for fledgling businesses, a café and community offices. Visit placesforpeople.co.uk.

Buyers will find much to like in this autumn’s selection in Surrey, says Johnny Turner.

‘Go’, the stylish residential development by Higgins Homes off Romford’s North Road, has just opened the doors to its show apartment. The show apartment demonstrates a clever use of internal spaces, textures and colours to render it as a minimalist dream home.

Jeremy Marcus, Sales and Marketing Director of Higgins Homes, comments: ‘The striking show apartment has been designed in a minimalist style to reflect today’s current trends, with ‘white on white’ textured wall paper to some feature walls, cream carpets and American White Oak veneered doors to the fitted wardrobes. The crisp clean interiors in all of the apartments allow for easy individualisation of each room. The apartments’ high specification finishes and stylish features ensure even the most trend-conscious buyer should feel comfortable moving straight in.’

Go comprises 84 two-bedroom, two bathroom apartments. Each apartment features a light, open living area with large windows which provides a stylish setting for relaxation or socialising.

The open-plan kitchen adds to the sense of modern minimalism. Designed by Urban Myths, the kitchen features high specification appliances from Caple, including a chrome oven and chimney hood, ceramic hob and an integrated fridge/freezer and a washer/dryer. The master bedroom features an en-suite bathroom and fitted wardrobes with American White Oak veneered doors. The bathrooms are fitted with Ideal Standard sanitary ware, elegantly finished with chrome fittings.

Some apartments also include a private balcony, terrace or patio and all an allocated parking space which is included in the price.

Go is located close to the heart of Romford which offers a lively scene of shops, cinemas, leisure facilities and nightlife. The area has benefited from substantial regeneration. Romford train station is less than a mile from the development and provides up to five trains per hour to London Liverpool Street station with journey times of just 23 minutes*.

First completions are expected in winter 2006. Prices start from £194,950 for a two bedroom, two bathroom apartment – less a 5% assisted deposit. For sales enquiries, contact Higgins Homes on telephone: 01708 722 922 or visit www.higginshomes.co.uk.

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ALEXANDRA PALACE FACE-LIFT IS LOOKING GOOD FOR NEW RIVER VILLAGE

The progression of Hornsey into a cutting edge residential area continues with Alexandra Palace’s culturally significant redevelopment. Situated six miles from central London on the top of Muswell Hill in Hornsey, and boasting stunning views of London, Alexandra Palace’s reinvention includes a £2.7million Lottery grant for improvements to the 196 acres of parkland and a revamp estimated to cost £50million planned for Alexandra Palace itself. The entire site is set for a face-lift and it is the residents of award winning St James Homes (North Thames) New River Village development that are in line to gain most from the improvements.

St James Homes has been a leading light in the regeneration of Hornsey. New River Village includes 622 stunningly designed contemporary homes, the first Royal Academy art galley outside of its Piccadilly headquarters in 250 years and critically acclaimed bars and restaurants. It is St James that has pioneered redevelopment of this up and coming area having invested considerable funds in its augmentation.

The Firoka Group were selected to undertake the work on the People’s Palace’ and have been offered a 125-year lease by the Alexandra Palace Board of trustees, promising an exciting redevelopment. The reinvention will include an overhaul of current facilities as well the addition of a four star, 120 room luxury hotel, and modern exhibition and conference space. Other amenities will include bars, restaurants and a new club. Furthermore, public leisure facilities will add to the already popular ice rink cricket pitch and boating lake with indoor bowling facilities, a multi screen cinema, health and fitness suites and childcare facilities.

It is not just the redevelopment of Alexandra Palace that bodes well for residents of Hornsey, with the success of the 2012 Olympic bid putting North London on a global stage, the inhabitants of the surrounding area will find themselves with a solid investment for the future especially those residing New River Village.

The NRV scheme represents the benchmark in residential Brownfield development. The imaginative design and retention of key architectural features of Thames Water Victorian Pumphouse includes a Royal College of Art Gallery for showcasing young talent with regular exhibitions of photography, art and sculpture. Further amenities include a the critically acclaimed restaurant and bar The Pumphouse, gym, sauna and steam room and the concierge service ‘Total Solutions’ run specifically for the residents of New River Village.

With stunning landscaped grounds, NRV allows for easy access to the amenities that are to be provided at Alexandra Palace. The 622 one and two bedroom apartments are set on 400 meters of riverfront, boasting good transport links. With both underground and main line stations within walking distance, New River Village is popular with first time and young professional buyers wishing to capitalise on the social cultural and economic growth of Hornsey.

Prices at the development start at £205,000 for a one-bedroom apartment. For further information please contact the St James sales and Marketing suite on Tel: 020 8347 4139 or visit: www.newrivervillage.co.uk

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Barratt Homes and Gateway Celebrate Partnership at Harlow Show

Members of Barratt Homes, the official event partner of the Harlow Town Show which took place on 3 September, and the Harlow Gateway Partnership gathered at the show to celebrate the unveiling of Barratt’s plans for a £100 million residential development at the Harlow Gateway site, Burnt Mill. 

Taking part in a photocall to mark the occasion were (as per photo l-r) Glyn Hopping, managing director of Barratt North London; Andy Nicholl, chief executive of Harlow Sports Trust; Gary Ennis, chairman of Barratt Southern Region; Bill Rammell, MP; Cllr Tony Durcan and Cllr Chris Millington.

The 27-acre site is known as the Harlow Gateway due to its superb location, alongside the main A414 to Chelmsford, close to the railway station, on the northern edge of the town centre.

Barratt’s development, Fifth Avenue, has outline planning consent for 530 homes that will see the transformation of the former dry ski slope site and sports ground into a highly desirable residential address.

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SOUTHEND’S REGENERATION OPENS THE GATEWAY FOR WESTON HOMES’ RESIDENTS

Residents of Weston Homes’ award winning developments in South East Essex are set to benefit thanks to the Thames Gateway project. Europe’s largest regeneration is set to see millions of pounds pouring into the Thames Estuary area, and it is the Weston Homes residents at Axis in the centre of Southend, Lonicera in Rayleigh and Nucleus in the picturesque town of Leigh-on-Sea, that are perfectly poised to make the most of the developments.

Weston Homes have paved the way for regeneration with their stunning developments producing more than 60 carefully designed and beautifully produced homes, Weston have been a leading light for the regeneration of South East Essex, and it looks set to continue with the plethora of improvement projects initiated for the Southend area.

Southend has been one of the country’s favourite tourist locations for decades, recently voted the top seaside destination in a survey conducted by Yours magazine, Southend epitomises everything that a traditional British seaside town should be, boasting the worlds longest pier and seven miles of blue flag beaches it has become a haven for the young and old alike and one of Britain’s favourite spots for a day by the sea.

Southend was identified as a centre of urban renewal in March 2005. Aided by the creation of the urban regeneration company Southend Renaissance Limited and Department for Communities and Local Government, Southend is set for a myriad of schemes designed to increase the amenities and facilities of this flourishing area.. Southend’s regenerations are costing in excess of £18million, and the money has been invested wisely.

The Southend Seafront High Street and Pier Enhancement Project (SSHAPE) it is now very close to completion. Thanks to money injected into redesigning the town centre; it is set to become a model of 21^st century living in. Sadly, the world famous pier was damaged by fire but, now a major restoration of the significant tourist attraction is planned The aim of the regeneration of Southend is to build on the cultural and historical elements whilst creating a fresh approach to the physical environment. Southend is set to become a beautiful place to live and work, with superb educational institutions, excellent shopping facilities, ideal cultural and leisure amenities.

Essex is renowned for it’s education facilities, with many of the top schools in the country being in Essex. This set to improve with the multi-million pound investments, highlighting the commitment to improving the prospects of the South Essex’s children and young people. South East Essex College recently relocated to its brand new £52 million campus and construction is well underway at the £28 million new building at the University of Essex Southend Campus which is set to be ready by 2008, allowing for an extra 3000 students.

Southend’s transport system is also receiving an overhaul, already perfectly positioned as a commuter town; the improvements for road and rail will make it even easier for workers to get into London. Southend has 3 stations within close proximity allowing travel times to the heart of the capital taking under an hour. Southend has excellent road links, being a stone’s throw from the M25 and direct links to the A13, central London and Docklands are easily accessed. The biggest feather in the cap for Southend is the improvements being made to Southend Airport. With improvements to the passenger terminal, runway and a new station for travellers, Southend is set to gain the cosmopolitan reputation that it deserves.

Weston Homes’ developments are perfectly set to take full advantage of Southend’s regeneration. Lonicera Place in Rayleigh typifies Weston Homes’ attention to design and detail. A development of 16 three and four bedroom terrace and semi-detached houses it includes properties with both open plan living or separate eating and dinning areas. All houses boast private gardens and the high quality interiors that have become synonymous with Weston Homes. Prices at Lonicera start from £270,000 for a three-bed end terrace.

The developments at Axis and Nucleus are highlights of Weston’s property portfolio. Stunningly designed, these developments both offer 24 two-bedroom apartments including attractive fully fitted designer kitchens, classic bathrooms with white sanitaryware accentuated by chrome fixtures. The developments, both set in beautifully landscaped surroundings offer the perfect opportunity for investment and two-bedroom apartments start from as little as £159,950 in both developments.

For more information on Weston Home developments in Essex please visit www.westonhomes.co.uk, or alternatively contact the sales and marketing suites on 01702 469583 for Axis, 01702 526850 for Nucleus or 01268 774501 for Lonicera.

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The West 3 Loft Apartments is the transformation of the former Ministry of Pensions building, Bromyard House, in to 350 stylish one, two and three bedroom apartments and Sky Lofts. James G West, Principal Architect for Whitehall, originally designed the building and whilst the exterior façade retains the elegant style of the original design, the interiors are fresh and contemporary, finished to the high standard associated with the Berkeley Homes brand.

All apartments are spacious, boasting high ceilings and excellent proportions. Layouts follow modern open-plan designs, providing light, spacious and relaxed living environments.  

Berkeley Homes has recently unveiled the Sky Lofts at the scheme, a collection of 17 two and three bedroom top-floor apartments that boast exceptional design, specification and extensive terraces.

Superior touches include large terraces that span up to three quarters the size of the apartments, wrapping around the properties and accessed either via a private entrance hall, the main living area or the maser bedroom through glass sliding doors. The master bedroom also features a walk-in wardrobe and an ensuite bathroom complete with built-in TV.

The West 3 Loft Apartments are excellently located, just a short walk from East Acton Underground Station on the Central line, which provides fast and efficient links in to the City and West End in less than 30 minutes.

Prices at the West 3 Loft Apartments start from £299,999 for a two-bedroom apartment up to £482,500 for a Sky Loft/penthouse. The Sales and Marketing Suite is open daily from 10am to 6pm. For further sales information, please contact 020 8811 2336 or visit www.berkeleyhomes.co.uk

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A contemporary, urban lifestyle was the influence behind the stunning new apartments at Country & Metropolitan Homes latest development - The Metro Apartments in Woking, Surrey.

Situated in the heart of the town, The Metro is an exciting collection of sixty-two, one and two bedroomed apartments, perfectly located just 28mins from London Waterloo by train and just 19 miles via the M25 to Heathrow Airport.

C&M has designed these fabulous apartments with the modern buyer in mind – light-filled, spacious apartments which incorporate a mix of clean lines, sophisticated styling and high specification fittings – they even come with the option of secure parking.

The Metro boasts two individually styled showhomes created by interior designers, Flair, which fuse traditional, high quality fixtures and fittings with a contemporary feel to give buyers a peek into the sophisticated style of modern urban living.

Professionally designed kitchens feature stainless steel oven, hob, and chimney hood as well as a comprehensive range of integrated appliances, including a dishwasher, fridge freezer and washer dryer. The contemporary feel is completed by the stainless steel splash back, recessed downlights and brushed steel switches.

Julie James, acting sales director for Country & Metropolitan South said: ‘The Metro Apartments give buyers the best of both worlds – a modern urban oasis within easy reach of rural Surrey – there is no need to compromise on style or quality of life.’

The Metro Apartments are available from £174,950 for a one bedroom apartment. For further information about these properties or to visit the new showhomes, please contact The Metro Apartment sales team on 01483 727279.

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The battle of the sexes has been rekindled by Higgins Homes’ new show apartments at The Hub in Chelmsford, Essex. The ‘masculine’ and ‘feminine’ show apartments launched on 2^nd September and have contrasting interior styles, depicting how the same bright space can be dramatically changed through colour and texture.

Jeremy Marcus, Sales and Marketing Director of Higgins Homes, comments: ‘We normally opt for crisp, clean interiors which suit most people’s tastes. However, at The Hub we wanted to show how contrasting interior design can make a difference to the same space. We opted for very feminine soft cream colour in one and deep masculine colours in the other, to give people an idea of what is possible. It will be interesting to see which interior is more popular.’

The feminine themed apartment combines textural open weaves with soft cream and buttermilk colours. Cushions studded with Swarovski crystal and floor-length light suede curtains give the apartment a touch of feminine sophistication. This has been purposefully contrasted in the masculine themed show apartment, which uses rich plum and chocolate shades and a variety of textures to create an opulent feel. The use of dark walnut wood, woven metallic wallpaper and a suede padded wall, all add to the masculinity of this apartment.

The Hub comprises 72 one and two bedroom apartments and penthouses, a number of which overlook the River Chelmer. All apartments incorporate spacious open-plan living areas with large windows which provide a bright and stylish space for socialising. The spacious tiled kitchens, designed by Urban Myth, incorporate Smeg appliances including a stainless steel electric oven, gas hob, integrated fridge/freezer, washer/dryer and dishwasher.

The Hub is situated right in the heart of Chelmsford, which has become a vibrant social hot spot. It is home to a plethora of restaurants and bars where one can sample different tastes from around the world.

Only a short walk from Chelmsford Station, The Hub is an ideal location for commuters and those who wish to pop into the City for shopping or a night out. There are regular, direct trains which reach Liverpool Street station within 40 minutes*.

Prices start from £185,000 for one bedroom apartments and £225,000 for two bedroom apartments and Penthouses are priced from £499,500. For sales enquiries, contact Higgins Homes on telephone: 08456 783 790 or visit www.higginshomes.co.uk

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ST JAMES HOMES SET TO REGENERATE ENFIELD LOCK WITH THE LAUNCH OF QWATERSIDE

St James Homes (North Thames) is set to contribute to the regeneration of Enfield Lock with the launch of the first phase of 59 one and two bedroom apartments at its qwaterside development, situated just off Ordnance Road in Enfield. The scheme will transform a former Thames Water site into a new residential quarter for Enfield, which will incorporate a total of 447 studio, one and two bedroom apartments and one and two bedroom houses, set in 2.5 acres of landscaped grounds. The first phase of apartments will be launched at a preview day on Sunday 24^th September 2006 held in Enfield’s Bar Ten, ahead of qwaterside’s official launch in Spring 2007.

The first phase of apartments will be situated in two contemporary designed four-storey buildings with white render, brick and timber facades. The exterior of the buildings will complement the architecture of the adjacent Oasis Academy Enfield, a brand new secondary school that is scheduled to open in 2007.

The apartments at qwaterside will incorporate the high specification and interior design for which St James Homes has become renowned. The kitchens will be open plan to the main living area and will be fitted with storage units in a choice of finishes, together with a comprehensive range of integrated appliances. A selection of the master bedroom suites in the two bedroom apartments will have en suite facilities, whilst all of the bathrooms will be fitted with white sanitaryware, complemented by chrome fittings and a selection of tiles.

A number of the apartments will have balconies or terraces and some of the properties will also benefit from waterside views of the adjacent lake. Secure parking is available on the development beneath the apartments together with parking spaces concealed behind buildings to create attractive streets which will complement the scheme’s extensive landscaping.

The later phases of Qwaterside will include a selection of eco-homes, which will showcase cutting edge examples of sustainable design. Known as Exemplar Homes, the houses will incorporate features such as ultra low water use, solar water heating, micro wind turbines and advances in insulation. Qwaterside will also be one of the first developments in the country to display these technologies and offer them as optional extras for all purchasers.

Prices are yet to be announced. To register interest in qwaterside ahead of the launch, please contact Lanes, the appointed sales agent, on Tel: 0845 603 7716 or qwaterside.co.uk.

In leafy south London, Bellway Homes is selling Meridian South, the £100 million redevelopment of the former Hither Green Hospital. The scheme, set south of Greenwich on the Meridian line, includes 544 apartments set across eight buildings.

The central point of Meridian South is a pedestrian piazza; amenities include a supermarket, restaurant and a leisure centre. The Historic Quarter includes a Victorian water tower that will be used as a management office and exhibition venue for local history. Bellway has also commissioned a local artist to produce a piece of art to celebrate the Greenwich Meridian Line. The quarter also includes four former hospital buildings, which Bellway has converted and refurbished. One is a working GP surgery, another a nursery and two have been converted into live/work units.

Prices range from