New Homes - Friday, March 28, 2008

For the seventh year running, we at HotProperty have selected what we think are the top developments in the market. And for the same number of years, we have found that the competition has gained in both accomplishment and confidence.This bodes well, both for an industry that is fastening its safety belts for a bumpy ride and for a buying public that is looking for what it have always been looking for: a home that is buyable, stylish, well located and likely to hold its value – and build upon that value – in the medium to long term.This week we salute those developments of apartments that have shown themselves to be what the market wants this year, whether by being the best for investment buyers or commuters, by raising the style stakes or making good-quality homes affordable to the general public. So here in the 19 pages that follow are 2008’s winning apartments.

Commutability
PLATINUM Bellway South East - Meridian South. Bellway.co.uk
GOLD Intro Homes - Avenue Heights. Introhomes.co.uk
SILVER Higgins – Uber. Higginshomes.co.uk
Uber – pic used in commute 591
Meridian – pic used: How low can you go 531, pic 2
Also you can use pics from in house/transport to get train or DLR pics

In Walthamstow, an environment that has both a village vibe and east London charm, Higgins Homes’ Uber has shown itself to be a hit with commuters. The area is currently riding a wave of regeneration, with a £56 million project underway. Walthamstow is luring young professionals at a rapid rate, offering as it does high-quality surroundings at a more affordable price than many similarly advantaged parts of London.
But it is great commuter links that often seal the deal, and this is another way in which E17 is a winner. The huge street market and new designer shopping centre are bonuses.
St James Street train station near the high street offers regular direct trains to London Liverpool Street, with a journey time of about 16 minutes. Walthamstow Central tube station, on the Victoria line, is about 23 minutes from Oxford Circus.
Uber is made up of 100 studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments on Erskine Road. The building’s cascading and ascending flat roof, sculpted with aluminium panels, lend it a dramatic profile. The development has a play area and a secret garden, a place to relax in relative privacy. Also, most apartments have glass-panelled balconies.
Internally each property incorporates a designer Urban Myth kitchen which comes fitted with Smeg appliances which include a stainless steel electric oven, gas hob, integrated fridge/freezer and washer/dryer.
Prices start at an impressive £205,000 (less five per cent assisted deposit). First completions are expected in the spring. Call Higgins Homes on 020 8508 6000 or visit higginshomes.co.uk.

What a commuter often wants is a way to opt in and out of the hustle and bustle of daily life with ease – and that’s just what the three developments shortlisted for the Commutability Award for apartments excel at.
Intro Homes’ Avenue Heights in Surbiton is an extremely successful blend of easy suburban charm and access to the office. Within walking distance of Surbiton station, where you’ll find journey to Waterloo in less than 20 minutes, this location is ideal.
Frequent flyers will appreciate its easy access to Heathrow, and those who take the car to work will find both the M25 and A3 very nearby. This part of London even caters well for those who cycle in the area.
The homes are not only stylish but low-maintenance, which lends itself to a low-maintenance lifestyle that busy commuters appreciate. The 11 one- and two-bedroom apartments also offered good affordability, with prices originally starting at £240,000.
The best-of-both-worlds lifestyle is very evident in this area, due to the excellent parkland and other relaxing spaces nearby. The River Thames is very easily reached, as are the green spaces of Bushy Park, Richmond Park and Fishponds. The fantastic shopping in nearby Kingston is less than two miles away.
Avenue Heights is now sold out. For information on other Intro Homes developments call 0870 445 0870 or visit introhomes.co.uk.
Meridian South is Bellway’s impressive £100 regeneration project, the redevelopment of the former Hither Green Hospital in South London. The scheme, set south of Greenwich on the Meridian line, includes 544 apartments set across eight buildings.
The focal point of the development is a pedestrian piazza, while other amenities include a supermarket, restaurant and a leisure centre. The Historic Quarter includes a Victorian water tower that is now used as a management office and exhibition venue for local history.
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.
One huge attraction to this development has been the very commutable location. Hither Green station provides a link to London Bridge, making a commute into the City quick and straightforward. Also, Lewisham, just one stop away, provides a DLR connection to both the City and Canary Wharf.
The homes are now sold out. Visit bellway.co.uk for details of current developments.

Community
PLATINUM Inspace Homes – Eastside. Eastsidee3.co.uk
GOLD Telford Homes - Merchant's Quarter. Telfordhomes.plc.uk
SILVER Newlon Housing Trust - The Ashburton Triangle. Newlon.org.uk

The glue that binds society, the element of a living location that makes us feel a part of something – that's one way of looking at community. And this past year HotProperty has seen a number of exceptional strides made by developers in the service of inclusion. With the houses that have been created, we have seen wonderful examples of the will to shape a locale through positive building. The winning developments of houses in this category push the agenda of benefiting the local area in ways that we feel are above and beyond the call of duty.

With its regeneration credentials established as part of the classy new home of Arsenal, The Ashburton Triangle is a development of 249 flats for key workers, a segment of London’s population that has found far too few opportunities for ownership. The realistic prospect of home ownership is the linchpin of the community, and moves to make ownership a reality rather than a dream are to be applauded. That the project includes homes to rent at below market rate shows a desire to truly make a difference in a time when rents, too, threaten to climb out of reach even of the decently paid. Homes that stem from such a project must be of quality, and those in the Triangle, it is encouraging to see, definitely meet this requirement. Designed by the same architects as the Stadium, this is Europe’s largest zinc-clad building, a futuristic yet friendly addition to a very established neighbourhood.This project by Newlon Housing Trust is a great help to the residents of Islington and a boon to the community as a whole.Prices for rent start at £95 a week, and shared ownership apartments start at £130,000. Those interested in buying a 40 per cent stake require an annual income of around £17,000.Visit newlon.org.uk to find out more.
With Merchant’s Quarter, Telford revisited the scene of quite a few past triumphs. Bow is a fast-rising part of the East End, and with 2012 suddenly seeming alarmingly near, the area – and Telford Homes will continue to show the smart money is on E3.Merchant’s Quarter is a collection of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments integrated with retail space, perfect for today’s lifestyle.The development is being created in partnership with Eastend Homes, and the result will provide much-needed homes for a range of buyers, from young singletons to small families.Bow is an exceptionally well-connected area, and its variety of leisure, retail and business opportunities has made this part of the East End desirable on a scale that was hard to imagine only a decade ago.Its placement – both on the doorstep of two international centres of commerce in the City and Canary Wharf, and in the heart of the family-orientated East End – gives it a special place in terms of community.The apartments at Merchant’s Quarter sold out almost immediately, testament to the fact that Telford has not lost its knack for combining location, spec design into a package that buyers fall over themselves to get to.For information on currently available developments visit telfordhomes.plc.uk.Another Bow triumph, Eastside has become a watchword for buyers and fellow developers in terms of getting well-priced, well-designed apartments into the London market.Investors, first-time buyers, young professional couples – a wide spectrum of buyer types have found what they were looking for here. The interaction between this new residential centre and the ‘old’ Bow has been interesting to see: this successful integration of new homes into a quite historic part of the capital is of benefit to all of London.As the site has progressed from phase to phase, we have seen how Eastside has gone from incomer to ‘part of the furniture’ – and this, combined with the huge appetite for these homes the market has demonstrated in the first four phases, adds up to runaway success.There are currently one- and two-bedroom apartments for sale at Eastside, and prospective buyers should act quickly. Visit eastsidee3.co.uk.


Investor Potential
PLATINUM Telford Homes, SoBow
GOLD South East Living, 3SE
SILVER Barratt Southern Counties, The Sanctuary

Investors need three main things in a property: a low price, to limit initial capital outlay; attractiveness to good-quality tenants, including good commuting; and the prospect of good capital growth in the medium to long term. The three winners of HotProperty’s Investor Potential Award have all of these qualities and more.

In ever-popular Wimbledon, The Sanctuary by Barratt Southern Counties offers 398 one- and two-bedroom apartments and studios in an exclusive and rarely available riverside setting. It also offers balcony views, lovely gardens and a lively communal veranda. Ample parking is another plus.
This development is an obvious match with young professionals who are busy by day and want peaceful, upmarket surroundings in which to relax after hours. Wimbledon is the perfect place for unwinding, with its mix of open spaces, bustling shopping centres and easy access to both central London and the country.
The Santuary is located a stones throw from Wimbledon, Wimbledon Park, Colliers Wood and Raynes Park. There is good shopping all around, including a thriving weekly market; there are also many restaurants, bars and cafés nearby. Commuters love the location, with its excellent road, rail, underground, tram and bus links to the centre of London.
The Sanctuary is, not surprisingly, sold out. Look for other investor-friendly developments from Barratt Southern Counties at barratthomes.co.uk.
Well-located Bromley is a hit with investors, as its constant tenant demand means money for landlords. South East Living have built on that already firm foundation with its unapologetically modern, user-friendly 3SE development on Sherman Road.
There are just 13 one- and two-bedroom apartments, including two breathtaking penthouses. The high-tech, high-spec approach has paid off in many ways. Buyers are in no doubt that they had found a no-nonsense property investment, while tenants are sure to benefit from the lifestyle the scheme offers.
Everything is in place for a modern lifestyle, with the emphasis on high-spec day-to-day living. All apartments are wired for a music system, and the stylish floor coverings and lighting are perfect for the young professional, whether an owner-occupier or tenant.
The location is excellent for commuting. Bromley North station is mere moments away, giving residents a real advantage in their day’s work. There is also brilliant shopping and green space very nearby.
There is currently one one-bedroom second-floor apartment for sale, priced at £225,950; two others have yet to be released. Call selling agent Acorn New Homes on 020 8663 4466.
Telford Homes is an investor favourite, and whenever there is a new development released, the buyers rush in. SoBow in E3 was no exception, selling out in record time and giving both owner-occupiers and investors something to smile about.
Situated on Ordell Road, SoBow consists of 144 private sale apartments and penthouses (some with optional parking) and 57 affordable housing homes. The modern design, combining contemporary architecture with a comprehensive specification, is just what today’s investor is looking for. The location, meanwhile, is also a firm favourite and one that good-quality tenants will always go for.
The apartments and penthouses are arranged around a central landscaped courtyard that will provide private amenity space for residents to enjoy. The Mostyn and Ordell buildings rise up to six and seven storeys respectively, with car and cycle parking underneath. Terraces and balconies make for nice outdoor space – and provide great views.
The high-spec kitchens with their contemporary units and integrated Smeg appliances, including a dishwasher, fridge freezer and washer dryer, are another box ticked in the investor checklist. The bathrooms offer pure white suites with polished chrome fittings by Logica.
Perfectly placed for City or Canary Wharf workers, the homes at SoBow are the perfect investment. With its excellent transport links, from tube to DLR, this development understandably found favour with those who know convenience translates into money. Obviously, this development was also a recipient of the Olympic boost. Its position, near the fringes of the 2012 Olympic Park, will continue to pay off.
To find out about current Telford Homes developments visit telfordhomes.plc.uk.

Value for Money
PLATINUM Barratt East London - Forest Place. Barratthomes-forestplace.co.uk
GOLD South East Living - Roma Court. Seliving.co.uk
SILVER Intro Homes – Millfields.Introhomes.co.uk

In a climate of still-high property prices, value for money is crucial. In London and the South East particularly, prices have risen to around ten times the average income, which can’t be good for the market, or for society generally. Thankfully, there are still developers putting property on to the market at prices way below insane.

In Clapton, Millfields offers that rare thing: one-bedroom apartments in the capital starting in the low two-hundred-thousands. This Intro Homes development is making good use of an area that is clearly on the up: a comprehensive regeneration programme connected to the 2012 Olympics, to be held nearby, means the area is becoming more cosmopolitan day by day.
Millfields is a collection of 70 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments with an emphasis on style and convenience. The location, within walking distance of Clapton train station, puts commuters in a very advantageous position, with journey times of approximately 12 minutes to Liverpool Street.
The homes at Millfields are located in two six-storey apartment blocks that blend brick, glass and steel to create a stylish and modern development. Each apartment has gas fired central heating and timber windows and is designed to maximize space. Additionally, every home benefits from its own balcony or terrace and many of the two bedroom apartments also have en suite facilities.
Each apartment is fitted with contemporary kitchen units from the Symphony Range, providing a range of base and wall units with co-ordinating work surface and matching splashback. The bathrooms feature white suites with low level WCs, panelled baths and vanity units with recessed wash hand basins
High-quality specification, combined with the low entry price (this year Millfields has been priced between £210,000 and £260,000) means the only way is up for those who buy here. It is no wonder that the development has been snapped up.
Find out more about other Intro Homes development by calling 0870 445 0870 or going online to introhomes.co.uk for more information.
In much-loved Sevenoaks, South East Living showed apartment living at its finest with the Roma Court development on Bradbourne Vale Road. The amazing penthouses in particular raised the bar of apartment design – and the location was the icing on the cake for some very impressed buyers.
The two-floor open-plan penthouses provide exceptional open-plan living space with a strong ‘wow’ factor. Double doors leading on to a private terrace and a spacious hall opening onto a large study area – impressive indeed. One penthouse provided fitted wardrobes and an en suite shower room to the master bedroom, while the other boasted a walk-in wardrobe and en suite shower room.
One truly impressive thing about these penthouses was the price: such quality in such a setting at under £400,000, including carpets, curtains and light fittings and secure covered parking? Exceptional.
The homes at Roma Court are now sold. Find out what South East Living is currently selling by visiting seliving.co.uk.
At Forest Place in Walthamstow, Barratt East London is showing first-time buyers that buying a home is possible, with a range of incentives on offer for those who are new to the market. With prices for a two-bedroom apartment that started as low as £ 135,498, this development is bringing the first-timer back.
Walthamstow is definitely up-and-coming, with loads of regeneration taking place and commuter links even better than ever. The City and the West End are very easily reached, while local markets and parkland bring people from around east London.
Being affordable doesn’t mean these apartments make you go without top spec, either. There are balcony terraces, landscaped gardens, an on-site residents only gym and an electronic gated security concierge service (subject to planning).
Current availability includes Acorn apartments priced from £164,995 and one-bedroom apartments from. Call 020 8531 5127 or see barratthomes-forestplace.co.uk.

Design and Innovation
PLATINUM Silver Homes, Wakeling Manor
GOLD Redeham Homes, Accordia Living
SILVER Bellway Thames Gateway South, The Old Tannery

Home design improves year after year, and this year’s awards have been brightened by the fresh take on home design by a number of developers.

Bellway Thames Gateway South offers The Old Tannery, a collection of high-spec homes in central Canterbury. The location is fabulous for a wide variety of buyers, from those with university-age children to downsizers, families to young professionals.
The one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and three- and four-bedroom town houses all benefit from a modern yet friendly design, with both exteriors and interiors emphasising light and space.
The location is wonderful. Canterbury is big on educational facilities, making this development great for an investment. Wonderful historic buildings abound in the area, including Leeds Castle and Canterbury Cathedral, and Howletts Zoo is also a big attraction.
Commuters love Canterbury. Canterbury East is linked to Victoria while Canterbury West goes to Charing Cross – both journeys take around 90 minutes. By car, the A2/M2 is close by. For access to the Continent, the Channel ports, tunnel and Ashford International station are all within 30 minutes.
Current prices range from £170,000 to £399,000. Call 01227 453853 or visit barratthomes.co.uk.
Accordia Living by Redeham Homes is set to challenge the traditional concept of living, with a range of architecturally dynamic and innovative new homes. The uber-modern homes define style, reflected throughout by the use of traditionally materials, in a contemporary architectural fashion.
The design of this development takes its cue from the existing natural landscape and surroundings – in particular the 700 or so established trees that have been carefully preserved. This mature landscape has been enhanced with diverse new open spaces scattered throughout the development, within the streets and squares.
The homes provide open plan living spaces and combined with terraces, courtyards and balconies at various levels, double height spaces and split levels offer endless possibilities.
Kitchens are designed by Euro Cucina and boast appliances by Miele, while in the bathrooms the co-ordinated bathroom furniture from Duravit complements the Villeroy and Bosh suites perfectly.  
The development nestles on a vast tree lined avenue that leads to the very heart of the city centre. Cambridge offers residents and visitors a vast wide range of amenities which include street markets, high street shops, restaurants, bars and cafes. The River Cam provides the perfect opportunity to view the outstanding architecture found within the historical colleges of the city.
The setting is a mix of wonderful architecture and established trees and greenery. Brooklands Avenue is a very well regarded location, among the most prestigious in Cambridge.
For more information on this development visit redehamhomes.co.uk.
The ten apartments and three penthouses at Wakeling Manor in Purley exhibit the love of design that drives Silver Homes. The developer is very adept at providing beautifully crafted ultra-high-spec homes for the discerning buyer, and Wakeling Manor is wonderful evidence of this drive and ability.
The design had to flatter what is an uncommon amount of natural beauty. Situated in exclusive, sought-after Woodcote, West Purley, bordering the 260-acre Webb Estate, Wakeling Manor is handsome, its exterior communicating just the right combination of gravitas and welcome. The look is timeless.
Commuting is easy, and a wealth of options for a day or evening out are within easy reach. Purley railway station gives links to London, for work or entertainment, while Brighton and the South Coast are also very easy to get to. The M23 and M25 are also a short drive away, putting airports within quick driving distance.
The use of the ironmongery of Charles Wakeling – who a century ago was the blacksmith of the Webb Estate, and for whom the development is named – is a beautiful, poignant design touch that shows the past is valued. It is just these touches that lift Wakeling Manor from merely beautiful to an absolute design success.
Inside, the homes offer gorgeous, modern kitchens, with the best built-in appliances and designer lighting. Bathrooms, too, are of the moment, with high-spec white sanitaryware and feature mirrors.
For further information about Wakeling Manor contact Silver Homes on 020 8660 9470.

Green Homes
PLATINUM Premier Properties for White Gables
GOLD Bellway South East, Meridian South
SILVER Telford Homes, Stradthaus

In terms of getting its message out, the green movement is the success of the past decade, with a consistently high profile that brings the facts about the dangers of global warming to the world with admirable skill. That fight is ongoing, but what of the changes actually being made to how we live? This has had mixed success, but we are realising that in this fight, the priorities and timing are crucial: what we need to do is change our habits in the ways that we think are most productive, and we need to do it now.B oth the building and maintenance of a home are major contributors to carbon emissions – but developers in the UK are reacting admirably to this major problem. The net result on the environment is difficult to gauge so far, although the simple facts of the problem tell us that this can make a substantial difference to life in subsequent generations. And the homes that are arising from new methods, materials and ways of thinking are impressive indeed, as our shortlisted developments show.

At Stadthaus in Islington, Telford Homes has once again created a development that has immense buyer appeal; indeed, I had hardly heard of this collection of apartments before it was sold out.
The location alone is a green achievement. Situated on Murray Grove, off Shepherdess Walk in N1, this development is perfect for the City worker who wants to eliminate the hassle car commuting and the relative unpredictability of the tube, and simply walk into work.
Telford’s last development in the area, on Wenlock Road, was an immensely popular combination of apartments and business premises – but the success of Stadthaus is truly staggering.
We can look forward to further wonderfully located Islington/City-side schemes from Telford in future, I’m sure. Visit telfordhomes.plc.uk to keep track of the latest developments.
Building green often means making something new out of old land and/or buildings, and with Meridian South, Bellway South East has succeeded in creating something that is beautiful and functional as well as eco-friendly in its construction. The impressive £100 regeneration project is the redevelopment of the former Hither Green Hospital in South London. The development, set south of Greenwich on the Meridian line, includes 544 apartments set across eight buildings.
The focal point of the development is a pedestrian piazza, while other amenities include a supermarket, restaurant and a leisure centre. The Historic Quarter includes a Victorian water tower that is now used as a management office and exhibition venue for local history.
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.
One huge attraction to this development has been the very commutable location. Hither Green station provides a link to London Bridge, making a commute into the City quick and straightforward. Also, Lewisham, just one stop away, provides a DLR connection to both the City and Canary Wharf.
The homes are now sold out. Visit bellway.co.uk for details of current developments.
White Gables in South Croydon was awarded an Eco Home ‘excellent’ rating for developer Premier Properties, proof that these 14 luxury two-bedroom apartments are taking the green message to buyers. Buyers, of course, want green homes, and that may be part of the reason this development is selling very quickly indeed.
The list of energy-saving initiatives at work her is impressive. Five of the apartments will have solar heating, which will not only save energy but also reduce running costs. All apartments observe a below-average swelling emission rate with regard to CO² emissions.
Another energy-saver is the drying space within each apartment. Bathrooms have retractable dryers over the bath and bathroom fans are fitted with a humidistat to maximise air quality. All the white goods within the development are eco-labelled, demonstrating that they are recommended due to their economical energy use. Fridges and freezers are all A+ rated, washing machines and dishwashers are A rated, with category B washer-dryers.
Internal lighting features 75 per cent low-energy lights, while outside the building, compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) and fluorescent strip intruder lighting is used.
White Gales also has a well above average pollution reduction score, and Premier Props has commissioned a report on zero emission energy sources, as well as fulfilling a planning condition demanding that ten per cent of energy is obtained from local renewable sources.
Green day-to-day living is very easily accomplished here, as South Croydon station is located within half a mile and both East and West Croydon stations are within two miles. This means car commuting is unnecessary and the train can take the strain. A number of good bus routes can be accessed within 500m of White Gables.
The development is just coming up to completion. Prices range from £287,500 to £309,500 for ground and first floor apartments, while each of the two stunning penthouse apartments, offering around 1,300 square feet of space, is priced at £390,000.
The show apartment is open Thursday to Monday from 10am to 5pm. Call 020 8688 1926.

Metropolitan Living
PLATINUM CALA Homes South, One Battersea Square
GOLD Acorn Property Group for Weller Street Lofts
SILVER Barratt Southern Counties for The Gallery

F or those in search of a fun, frenetic lifestyle as well as a high-quality home, today’s new homes market offers much to choose from. With specification that matches the cool, chic feel of today’s London, these homes are perfect for this busy, buzzing age.

Barratt Southern Counties wins a Silver Award for The Gallery, an exclusive development of architect-designed apartments in very sought-after Hove.The stunning interiors epitomise the buzzing lifestyle of this very up-and-coming area, with light and spacious living and dining areas, sleek designer kitchens and master bedroom suites with gorgeous state-of-the-art bathrooms.The Gallery is situated in a partial car-free zone, each apartment yet apartments have their own designated car parking spaces located in the underground car park. There is also a well-equipped residents-only gym.Hove is an increasinly young locale, with wonderful seafront, restaurants, bars and a wealth of shopping as well as creative and leisure pursuits in nearby Brighton.Hove is close to the A23 and M23, and Gatwick Airport is nine miles away. London is very easy to get to by train as well. Current prices at The Gallery start at around £300,000. Call 01273 829300.A former bonded warehouse at the heart of historic Borough, Weller Street Lofts offers just 13 two- and three-bedroom residential apartments. Ten properties in the former warehouse building will feature exposed brickwork, iron columns and solid wood floors, while three new apartments will also be available, including two amazing penthouses.Weller Street Lofts is set around an integral courtyard just five minutes’ walk from Borough tube station and within easy reach of the river and the South Bank’s culture, leisure and nightlife.Weller Street is tucked away in a quiet residential corner behind Borough High Street, close to the tube. It retains original features while also creating a lovely contemporary living space, perfect for the locale, which is both buzzy and historic.The two and three-bedroom apartments will have high ceilings, iron support columns and a fusion of old and new window designs. Living areas within the original building will contain traditional cast iron column radiators, dark timber flooring and tall contemporary doors.Ultra-contemporary kitchens will have integrated oven, hob, extractor hood, fridge freezer, dishwasher, not to mention stylish units; washer-dryers are to be housed in separate cupboards. Bathrooms, with ceramic and glass, also speak of contemporary chic.All apartments have been sold; prices started around £500,000. See what Acorn Property Group currently has available by visiting acornpropertygroup.org. One Battersea Square by CALA Homes contains 28 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses ranging from 575 to 1,231 square feet. The area is superb, and the balcony to each home makes great use of this.The Thames, the London Eye, the Gherkin, Wembley Arch – what could be more metro than all the iconic sights right there for you to view?The tech-spec is great. The sitting room, kitchen/breakfast room and master bedroom are all pre-wired for surround sound. CAT-5 cabling has also been installed, keeping you and your computer well connected.
Bathrooms have chic white Villeroy and Boch sanitaryware, thermostatically controlled Hans Grohe showers, mirrors with demister pad and chrome towel rails. Meanwhile, the contemporary open-plan design of the kitchens and spacious sitting rooms give a luxurious feeling of space.Under-floor heating helps the clean lines of the interior space by dispensing with radiators. Safety is taken care of with CCTV in parking areas and audio/video entry systems linked to the electronic vehicular and pedestrian gates. Private parking to the rear of the development is available to residents at an additional cost, and there is a cycle store for the use of all residents.Battersea is a well-known area of choice for younger Londoners, with its array of great gastropubs and theatre pubs, as well as wonderful restaurants, bars, cafés and – crucially – fabulous transport.Prices currently start at £365,000. The show apartment is open daily from 11.00 to 18.00. Visit the website onebatterseasquare.co.uk.

Waterside Homes
PLATINUM Weston Homes, Barton Mill
GOLD Redeham Homes, Vie
SILVER Bellway Thames Gateway South, The Marina

Bellway Thames Gateway South - The Marina
Redeham Homes – Vie (if no pic, use pic 3 from NHRU 588)
Weston Homes - Barton Mill (if no pic, use pic 9 from Kent 540)

G ravesend is a waterside location with a wealth of history, and The Marina by Bellway Thames Gateway South benefits enormously from its Thames-side setting. This development of stunning one- and two-bedroom apartments near the water’s edge has a relaxing feel, yet is very well connected to London via rail links.
The Marina’s central location in Canal Road means that you are only a few minutes from the town centre; countryside is also close by, and the Thames keeps watch throughout.
Gravesend has good restaurants, cafés, bars and pubs, and there is also a cinema, clubs and pubs mean that there’s no shortage of things to do in the evenings. For the health leisure centres and wonderful parkland.
Gravesend now has the benefit of the new Channel Tunnel rail link from nearby Ebbsfleet International, so travel to the Continent is as easy as a trip to London. Gravesend Station, less than a mile from The Marina, offers direct services into London Bridge with a journey time of about 50 minutes. The Dartford crossing is just eight miles from the town, giving easy access to the M25.
Current prices range from £165,000 to £290,000. Call 01474 568436 or visit bellway.co.uk.
The River Cam is a glorious, lazy thoroughfare, with a wonderful rhythm both on the water and on the paths that run alongside it. It is here that Redeham Homes has built a collection of luxurious design-led homes – homes that have got buyers very excited indeed.
Vie is a collection of 287 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and three- and four-bedroom townhouses in an outstanding riverside location set within one mile of the hustle and bustle of Cambridge city centre. With journey times into central London taking less than an hour, the development has become a very popular with commuters.
Residents at Vie will benefit from the new cycle and foot bridge that crosses the River Cam linking Vie and the area of Chesterton to the south. The bridge will be the only crossing on the east side of the city and will offer a peaceful alternative route into town.
Each residence benefits from a spacious terrace or balcony with some boasting fantastic views of the River Cam or surrounding gardens. Each home features underfloor heating and contemporary designer kitchen units with Smeg integrated oven, hob, fridge-freezer and washer/dryer. Bathrooms and en suites will all feature Villeroy and Boch sanitary ware, with Hansgrohe chrome finish fittings and Italian design wall tiles.
Each apartment has an allocated parking space, while some of the town houses include a garage with electrically-activated door. All homes are provided with cycle storage.
Prices for homes at Vie start at £245,950 for a one-bedroom apartment and £469,950 for a three-bedroom semi-detached town house. Call 01223 365666 or visit redehamhomes.co.uk. Also contact selling agents Bidwells New Homes on 01223 841842.
Weston Homes is selling Barton Mill, which is in a wonderful location on the River Stour in Canterbury. The regeneration of the much-loved mill and creation of new buildings alongside provides 141 new homes, including two-, three- and four-bedroom homes.
The Project Genesis scheme allows buyers a choice of interiors, fixtures and fittings as standard – the very type of materials and styles that many developers would offer as upgrades.
The development is very well located for Canterbury’s lively entertainment scene, excellent amenities and good transport links. The recently refurbished shopping centre provides a mixture of one-of-a-kind boutique shops, well-known high street brands and high fashion stores. There are also two renowned theatres, an art deco cinema and plenty of health and leisure facilities.
All apartments have now been sold on The Island at Barton Mill. There are three-bedroom town houses available, priced from £299,950. Contact the sales and marketing suite at Barton Mill on 01227 459994 or see weston-homes.com.

From bustling market towns to tranquil villages, this county has plenty to offer. Amanda Shiel takes a look at what’s on offer

Pulborough
With a range of one- and two-bedroom apartments, and two-, three- and four-bedroom houses, Sandpiper Place is ideal for first-time buyers, downsizers and families. Prices start at a modest £175,000, with the first phase of detached houses from £325,000.
The show home on Stane Street is open daily for 10am-5pm. For more information contact Connells Horsham office on 01403 256331.
Brighton
Only three apartments remain at Ruston heights, an exclusive development of just eight exceptionally large apartments.
Located between two of Brighton’s most exclusive districts, Withdean and Tongdean,
Ruston Heights has been carefully designed for those seeking an aspirational living environment, and buyers who wish to downsize from a family house will find these limited edition apartments an effortless transition.
The three remaining apartments have two bedrooms with built-in wardrobes and fully-fitted walk-in dressing rooms, and each with a luxurious en-suite bathroom. There’s plenty of storage throughout, with masses of cupboard space, generous airing cupboards and a special underground storage room.
All the apartments have large south-facing balconies or patios and an underground parking space. Preston Park station is within easy walking distance, and exclusive and challenging golf clubs are plentiful on the nearby South Downs.
A new show apartment is available to view. Prices start at £545,000.
Call The Grenville Homes Group on 014583 469500 or Mishon Mackay City Land & New Homes 01273 829300.

West Chiltington
Located in Common Hill, Castlewood occupies a prime location in a well established, residential area of prestigious homes.
The property has many fine features including beamed ceilings, a hand built open fireplace, Oak country style doors and a staircase boasting ornate balustrading.
The fully integrated 28ft country style kitchen/breakfast room includes a multi burner dual fuel cooking range, granite work surfaces and Spanish ceramic tiled floor which has underfloor heating as standard.
The bathrooms follow this traditional theme and appearance yet afford the very latest in continental white sanitaryware with classic touches of chrome.
In house technology includes the latest in TV/Hi-Fi satellite home entertainment wiring and a full security system.
The house is approached via a five bar gate with split post and rail fencing and affords excellent seclusion set behind a mature laurel hedge. The rear garden faces south west.
Castlewood is on the market for £895,000.
Visit charlesjameshomes.com for more information.

Hassocks
Clayton Mills, set on the edge of the historic village of Hassocks in West Sussex, offers two-, three- and four-bedroom homes.  
Each property has been carefully designed with traditional exterior and contemporary interiors. Designer fitted kitchens are complemented by a range of state-of-the-art fixtures and fittings and bathrooms are modern in design with co-ordinated suites.
A community within a community, Clayton Mills has four play areas, a large feature pond and a network of informal footpaths for residents to enjoy.
The village of Hassocks has plenty to offer including five pubs, two restaurants, a small supermarket and a variety of shops and banking facilities as well as a park and tennis courts. Brighton is just under nine miles away with its lively cultural activities, eclectic mix of shopping, nightlife and beaches.
A good selection of both primary and secondary schools are within a five mile radius and the beautiful South Downs with its network of paths and bridleways used by ramblers, walkers and riders can be accessed directly from the Clayton Mills development. 
Hassocks station is on the main London Victoria to Brighton line and provides fast and frequent trains; Brighton is a ten minute train-ride away and the journey to London takes approximately one hour. Via the A23, the London orbital M25 (J7) makes traveling further afield very easy, with London Gatwick airport less than 23 miles away.
Prices start from £239,995 for a two-bedroom home and range to £629,995 for a five-bedroom home.
Contact the sales and marketing suite, open seven days a week from 10am-6pm, on 01273 846418 or visit barratthomes.co.uk.

Eastbourne
Belle Toute Lighthouse, which sits on the edge of Beachy Head in East Sussex, has enjoyed a
colourful history.
Petitions for a lighthouse on this potentially dangerous stretch of water were made to government from circa 1691 and in desperation, tired of burying so many dead sailors, a local clergyman, Parson Darby, set up his own warning system by excavating a cave in the face of Belle Toute cliff, which used a lantern as a warning light.  In 1828 a small wooden building was erected on top of the cliff, which was replaced by a permanent stone lighthouse in 1834.  
Sold by Trinity House in 1903, Belle Toute Lighthouse became a tea-house and changed hands several times before being bought in 1923 by a surgeon who made some improvements, which included adding an extra storey and turning the lantern into a solarium.
During World War II, the lighthouse was requisitioned by the military. Badly damaged by shelling, it was then given to Eastbourne Council, later being taken over by a London doctor who rebuilt it as a family home.
Sold again in 1987, its new owner was the BBC, who used it in the making of Fay Weldon’s ‘The Life and Loves of a She-Devil’. In March 1999, due to coastal erosion, the lighthouse was raised two feet into the air by hydraulic jacks, and moved away from the cliff edge.
Priced at £595,000. Contact selling agents Strutt & Parker on 01273 475411.

Kirdford
Bourn Meadows comprises of 20 two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom houses clustered around a village green.
Internally homes boast kitchens fitted with granite worktops and upstands, a stainless steel integrated double oven and ceramic hob, fully integrated fridge/freezer, dishwasher and washing machine. The stainless steel sink includes a Hansgrohe monobloc mixer tap and pop-up waste.
Bathrooms and en-suites include white sanitaryware from Twyfords Galerie range, with matt white panel, Hansgrohe Ecostat 1001 thermostatic bath/shower mixer and monobloc basin mixer with pop-up waste.
Eight of the 13 homes in the first phase of development have already been sold. Homes are priced from £315,000 for a two-bedroom house.                                                                                  Contact the Rydon Homes sales team on 01403 820824 or visit rydon.co.uk.

Shoreham-by-Sea
Bridges Bank will comprise 16 spacious, three-bedroom townhouses and two, unique two-bedroom apartments available.
The homes at Bridges Bank have been carefully designed to reflect the character and charm of the surrounding Sussex vernacular; traditional materials such as wood, slate and clay have been combined to create stylish homes and the result is an array of attractive street scenes.   
The town houses will feature an integral double garage, or single garage and carport to the ground floor with access from the entrance hall. This level will also incorporate a guest cloak room along with a unique garden room that leads via double doors to a spacious rear garden.
The first floor of the houses will comprise an extremely spacious, double aspect living room and will benefit from features such as double doors to a continental styled Juliet balcony and a spacious open-plan kitchen/dining area along with a flexible study or home office.
The bedrooms and the family bathroom will be located on the uppermost level.  Along with a spacious second and third bedroom, the master bedroom suite will be complete with fitted wardrobes and ensuite.  
The two-bedroom apartments will also offer very contemporary living.  Complete with a private entrance the apartment is dispersed across a single level and features an open-plan kitchen, dining and living area that gives the property the feel of loft style accommodation.      
Ideal for commuters, the scheme is situated just a short walk from Shoreham mainline station which provides efficient services to London Victoria and London Bridge in just over an hour.  Alternatively, Brighton is just 15 minutes away. 
Prices start at £215,000. For further information contact Crest Nicholson on 01959 564282 or visit crestnicholson.com/bridgesbank.

Uckfield
Sunnybrooke comprises a collection of two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom homes in a beautiful setting, fringed by mature trees and offering an abundance of green space and wildlife areas just half a mile from Uckfield High Street. 
The Wealden (pictured) offers a good-sized garden, plenty of really well-designed living space and an outstanding specification.
On the ground floor, the spacious kitchen/dining room is the hub of this house – the kitchen is separated from the dining area by a granite-topped island unit. Just across the hallway the drawing room, with its feature fireplace and doors onto the garden, is equally impressive.  On the first floor are four bedrooms, one with an en-suite shower room, and a family bathroom. The second floor offers a huge amount of flexible living space. 
The Wealdon is currently on offer for £495,000.  For further details contact the Rydon Homes’ sales team on 01825 760770 or visit the website at rydonhomes.co.uk.

West London’s good schools, leisure facilities and transport make it a very popular place to live. Amanda Shiel looks at some of the best new homes on sale here

Acton
The Courtyard Apartments is a collection of one-bedroom live/work units at the heart of the West 3 development. Each property boasts an official live/work room with en suite facilities, as well as superlative living space and two outdoor areas. The biggest live/work apartments enjoy open plan living/cooking/dining areas of nearly 500 square feet, with a generous bedroom, en suite, guest bathroom and workspace that is totally separate from the main part of the apartment.
Complementing the flexible live/work space is the main body of the apartment, which is designed to make a bold statement with 10-foot high ceilings. Key to the open plan space is a fully fitted kitchen, with each apartment benefiting from an individually designed layout.
The sleek and streamlined look is continued in the en suite and guest bathroom, with WCs and sinks from the Ideal Standard White collection; stainless steel ladder-style heated towel rails, mirrored and shelved cabinets with feature lighting and shaver socket, and large format tiles to the walls and floors.
Also as standard are fitted wardrobes with shelves and hanging rails to the bedroom, ample linen cupboards with sliding mirror doors, a video entry system viewed via a purchaser’s personal TV, and TV/telephone/data points to the living area and bedroom.
Prices for The Courtyard Apartments start from £420,000 and rise to £465,000. For further information or to view the latest show apartments contact the sales and marketing suite on 020 8811 2336.

Hammersmith
Formerly a Thames Water pumping station, St James Homes has transformed the outstanding Grade II listed London landmark into 43 elegant riverside homes combining cool modernity with stunning Victorian architecture.
The scheme retains the original pumphouse red brick façade with grand arched windows that afford most apartments views across the River Thames.
All apartments are fitted with video entry phones, and the scheme includes a porterage service and secure parking. Residents also have access to a private entrance to the Thames path and communal landscape gardens.
Internally, kitchens and reception rooms merge into spacious and flexible living areas, while the master bedrooms are spacious with en suite facilities and fitted wardrobes.  Apartments also benefit from a private balcony that extends out from either/or both the reception area or master bedroom.                                                                                                                                    Only two penthouses remain, priced from £510,000. To view the show penthouse contact the marketing suite on 020 8563 9139.  

Feltham  
Magna is the final phase to be released at Axiom, a development situated in the residential heart of what will be a whole new Feltham town centre.                                                                  
Studio and two-bedroom homes are arranged around a courtyard garden and benefit from underground parking (to most units) and a resident’s fitness suite.      
A studio apartment costs £170,500 and the two-bedroom apartments start from £230,995.
Contact Barratt on 020 8867 0382.
                                             
Acton
Factory Quarter is a development consisting of 453 one- and two-bedroom apartments homes, together with office and retail units on the site of the former Prestolite Factory in Larden Road.  
This mixed tenure scheme, a short walking distance from Turnham Green tube station, will offer a range of different options for people looking for a home to buy, part-buy/part-rent or simply to rent.  
In addition Factory Quarter will include 3,500m² of office space, a possible nursery/crèche, café, local shop, a community/meeting room plus landscaped grounds, play areas and private amenity space.                                                                                                                                               Blocks A and B are part of a larger development, especially reserved for Part-Buy/Part-Rent buyers. Block A has 34 contemporary units, with a range of finishes. Block B is divided into eight period style apartments.                                                                                                                 Currently available to people living or working in the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham. Applicants must be registered with London Borough of H&F's housing register. For more information contact the Genesishomes team on 0845 600 4663.

Isleworth                                                                                                                                             661 London Road is a collection of 62 newly built studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments by Notting Hill London.                                                                                                                             Located on the top floors are two mini-penthouses featuring modern kitchens with integrated appliances and contemporary bathrooms.                                                                                                                              The development benefits from three nearby London Underground stations on the Piccadilly line - Hounslow Central, Hounslow East and Hounslow West.
Two-bedroom apartments start from £278,950.
For sales information call the selling agents Anthony James Manser on 020 8847 0488 or visit 661londonroad.com. For further information on Notting Hill London visit nottinghill-london.co.uk.

Amanda Shiel takes a look at what’s available in the picturesque county

Weybridge
Gower House, situated in Gower Road on the edge of St George’s Hill, is a luxury gated development comprising 12 large two-bedroom apartments capped by a stunningly spacious penthouse.
The development will be set in landscaped gardens and benefit from underground car parking with two spaces for each two-bedroom apartment, and three for the penthouse.
Gower House will be ideal for those who want to make the most of the local area with its extensive selection of fashionable bars and restaurants, good shopping and excellent sporting amenities, including the renowned St George’s Hill Golf Club.  For those who want to travel further afield, transport links are excellent. Nearby Weybridge station is only a 30 minute train journey from London and the A3 is also close by, offering easy access to London, the south coast and junction 10 of the M25.
Work has already started and it is anticipated that the homes will be ready to move into in autumn 2008. Prices are expected to start from around £600,000.
Ccontact Consero Homes on 01483 458875 or Helas Wolf estate agents on 01932 820222. Alternatively, visit conserohomes.com.

East Molesey
Rotary Court is an exclusive development of 26 studio, one-, two and three-bedroom apartments in Hampton Court.  
Once owned by the Crown Estate and used for a variety of purposes, Rotary Court has now been converted into stylish, residential apartments; many with balconies or terraces, and all with a high level of specification.
With its elegant, white-rendered façade and sash windows, the Rotary Court is undoubtedly impressive but the early Victorian building is only part of the development’s appeal. The fabulous lawned rear garden, with its mature trees, weeping willows and shrubs, sweeps down towards the River Thames providing a delightful oasis for the exclusive use of owners.
The location, within a few minutes of the shops and restaurants at East Molesey and approximately three and a half miles from Esher, is undoubtedly popular. Together, neighboring Bushy Park and Hampton Court Park span over 1,000 acres and, in addition to the social scene on offer at The Thames Motor Yacht Club, there are various sports clubs in the local area including Hampton Court Palace Golf Club. There’s a local fitness centre nearby and Hampton’s heated open air pool within easy reach. Hampton Court Palace, just across the road, offers easy access to the riverbank, gardens and events at the palace.
Only eight properties remain. Prices start from £175,000. Contact Beechcroft on 020 8979 8482 or visit rotarycourt.co.uk.

Ashtead
Warren Court consists of thirty one- and two-bedroom apartments exclusively for the over 65’s. The development will feature a superlative specification and beautiful landscaped gardens. In addition to the privacy of their apartments, homeowners will be able to benefit from a beautifully furnished residents’ drawing room with its state-of-the-art entertainment system and a concierge service that will be on hand to take care of things like taking deliveries, making restaurant and theatre reservations, and booking transport to and from airports.
Warren Court is less than ½ a mile from sought-after Ashtead’s bustling village high street and the Capio Private Hospital.
Prices at Warren Court range from £249,950 to £360,000. Millgate also offers an Assisted Move scheme. For full details, visit the sales and marketing suite, open daily from 10am–4pm, or call 01372 276098. Outside of these hours, call selling agent Patrick Gardner & Co on 01372 360832 or alternatively visit millgatehomes.co.uk.

Addlestone
Abbots Croft comprises a mix of one- and two-bed apartments and three- and four-bedroom houses.
Internally, all of the homes have been finished with a fresh and contemporary feel, featuring open plan living areas to maximise the use of light and space. Apartments at Corner House and Abbeymede Court feature sizeable living/dining areas, with a fitted modern kitchen and co-ordinated laminated worktops.  
The three- and four-bedroom houses have private gardens and are laid out across three floors, with a family room on the ground floor and separate living room on the first floor. Bathrooms feature white sanitaryware by Roca and chrome Hansgrohe mixer taps and fittings.
The two-, three- and four-bedroom homes all have en suite facilities to the master bedroom
Subject to the stage of construction, Crest Nicholson also offers purchasers the option to co-ordinate various additional features of the interior finish to create a personal space that meets individual requirements.
The M25 is less than a mile away and Guildford, Basingstoke, Heathrow and Gatwick Airports all within easy reach. From nearby Chertsey station, London Waterloo is under an hour away via Weybridge or Feltham.
Prices start from £184,950 for a one-bedroom apartment.
For more information or to book an appointment contact the Sales and Marketing Suite on 0870 751 3594 or visit crestnicholson.com.

Reigate
Only four apartments remain at High Cedars.
The gated and attractively landscaped development boasts generously sized two- and three-bedroom apartments that sit over two buildings, Chiltern Lodge and Malvern House.
The development is located off a leafy avenue in a peaceful part of town but close to amenities. Reigate offers a range of trendy shops and quality supermarkets and a number of pubs, bars, a club, cinema and restaurants. Reigate also has three secondary schools and a college, and excellent rail links into London.
Prices at High Cedars start from £365,000. Marketing suite is open daily from 10am-5pm. Call 01737 248842 or visit charleschurch.com.

Caterham
This gated development for the over 60’s boasts just 32 new homes.
Set within beautifully landscaped grounds and located just off Stafford Road, Reflections is within walking distance of Caterham town centre and railway station.  In addition to 14 different styles of one- and two-bedroom apartment, the development offers a communal lounge and conservatory, a guest suite for visiting family and friends along with a warden call service.
Prices to be released shortly. Fairview New Homes can help with the sale of an existing property free of charge or will pay estate agents, legal fees and stamp duty on the purchase of a new apartment.   
Contact the Anglia Secure Homes’ sales team on 07884 233569 or 07831 284006.

West Molesey
Only seven new homes remain available in Mosaic, an attractive development of 21 three- and four-bedroom mews houses and town houses and 10 one- and two-bedroom apartments.
Set in beautifully landscaped gardens with residents’ parking, it is ideally located for commuters being within reach of the M3, M24 and Hampton Court station.
One-bedroom apartments are priced from £191,000 and a two-bedroom at £225,000. A three-bedroom house remains, priced at £350,000 and four-beds from £360,000.   
Incentives are available. For further information call 020 8979 8978 between 10am-5pm Thursday to Monday.  Details of all Fairview New Homes’ developments are available on the website at fairview.co.uk.

Esher
Consero Homes has received planning permission for ten four- and five-bedroom homes at More Lane. The development will include eight four-bedroom townhouses and two five-bedroom detached houses.
The development enjoys stunning views as it sits opposite Sandown Park racecourse and backs on to open countryside; yet is within walking distance of the centre of Esher with its excellent shopping facilities, cinema and renowned restaurants.  
Esher is situated within the prosperous ‘stockbroker belt’. It boasts a large number of elegant homes, a wide choice of well regarded public and private schools, and a bustling high street. The station provides a quick link to London Waterloo in approximately 30 minutes. The A3 is less than a mile away, giving swift access to the M25 orbital motorway, Heathrow and Gatwick airports.
Completion is scheduled for the end of 2008; prices are likely to start in the region of £1 million.
Potential buyers can register their interest by calling Consero Homes on 01483 458875
or the selling agents, Hamptons, Putney on 0845 6181230. Information on these and other Consero Homes’ developments is also available at conserohomes.com.

Hindhead
The Beacon is a gated development of stunning apartments situated amongst Surrey’s exclusive areas of outstanding natural beauty.
Beyond the development’s wide, sweeping lawns and verdant parkland setting lie the breathtaking views of the Surrey Hills, one of England’s finest landscapes. The development itself is situated on top of Gibbet Hill, the second highest hill in Surrey, affording residents spectacular views across the Weald and on a clear day as far as Canary Wharf.
The Beacon is located in the quaint village of Hindhead, which offers a range of local amenities and excellent road links, which will be improved further in 2011 with the construction of the new A3 Hindhead tunnel. The pretty town of Haslemere, with its cobbled streets and selection of eateries, is approximately five miles away. Guildford, 15 miles from the development, offers leisure facilities and an array of restaurants and bars.
Prices for the two-bedroom apartments start from £269,950 and the three-bedroom apartments from £344,950.
For more information contact the sales and marketing suite on 0870 751 0496 or visit  crestnicholson.com/thebeacon.

Amanda Shiel takes a look at what’s available in this enchanting county

Sudbury
Boasting riverside views in one of the most sought after areas of Sudbury, Bakers Mill comprises one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and two-, three- and four-bedroom houses.
Internally, the designer kitchens are fitted with a stainless steel oven, washer/dryer and fridge/freezer. Homes also benefit from en-suites to many master bedrooms, audio entry system and private parking.
Sudbury is situated in the heart of the Stour Valley and while it has grown significantly in recent years it has still managed to retain its traditional charm and historical buildings.  
One-bedroom apartments start from £138,250.  Furniture packs are also available to buy. The Bakers Mill sales office, situated on Mill Tye, is open Tuesday to Sunday 10am-5pm and Monday 2pm-5pm. For more information call 01787 377 539 or visit barratthomes.co.uk .

Red Lodge
Kings Warren comprises a selection of two-, three- and four-bedroom houses and one- and two- bedroom apartments.
Ideally placed for commuters, the development has excellent access to the A11 and A14 for travel to Cambridge, Bury St Edmunds and London. It is also just seven miles from Newmarket and three miles from Kennett station which offers services to Cambridge in just over 30 minutes.
Two-bedroom apartments are priced from £140,000, three-bedroom houses priced from £177,500 and four-bedroom houses priced from £240,000.
For more information on Kings Warren contact the sales team on 0870 755 1632 or visit crestnicholson.com.
 
Woodbridge
Six exclusive two-bedroom apartments as well as 18 brand new two-, three- and five-bedroom houses and apartments recently launched at Melton Grange, a beautiful late Victorian Grade II listed building.
Skilled craftsmanship has been used to restore the period heritage of the original building. Exterior features include red brickwork, slate roof tiles with battlements, stone mullion windows and ornate terracotta panels on the façade. The striking new properties use features including gables, pediments, decorative brickwork and oriel windows to mirror the grand period features of the mansion.  
Many of the properties boast open plan kitchen/dining or living/dining areas with elegantly finished interiors providing classic yet contemporary detail with functional design of the highest quality. Purchasers can choose from a range of fully fitted custom built kitchens, worktops and wall tiles, subject to stage of construction, and many properties look out onto manicured lawns and landscaped gardens.
Woodbridge, set on the banks of the river Deben, has an illustrious maritime history and is home to the famous archaeological site of Sutton Hoo. It also has a whole host of high street and boutique shops, restaurants and traditional pubs. Ipswich, with its excellent rail networks, is less than nine miles away. There are several good schools in the local area including Farlingaye High School and Woodbridge School making Melton Grange perfect for families with children.
Prices start from £185,000 for a two-bedroom apartment, from £340,000 for a three-bedroom house and from £625,000 for a five-bedroom house. Call the marketing suite on 0777 630 1732 or visit hopkinshomes.co.uk.  
 
Newmarket
With wide open spaces and unbroken tranquillity David Wilson Homes’ King’s Meadow development off Duchess Drive is the epitome of luxury living.
Consisting of just 41 four- and five-bedroom houses scattered across 28 acres of meadowland, each and every home enjoys independence and privacy.
The homes at King’s Meadow are packed with little details that create an outstandingly high specification. These include supreme Commodore fitted kitchens with classic granite work surfaces, range cookers and impressive American-style appliances.
Properties also benefit from the option of having the latest technology installed in the shape of an advanced surround sound system with the platinum package providing home owners with Sky TV and music in eight rooms that can be enjoyed independently, an in-built Ipod docking station, sleek plasma screens and a special splash screen television for the bathroom.
Homes at Kings Meadow start from £510,995.
Two show homes are open daily, from 10am to 5pm. Contact the sales advisor on 01638 664301 or visit dwh.co.uk for more information.
 
Walsham le Willows
Set in quiet cul-de-sacs, Elmside Lea offers 53 two-, three- and four-bedroom detached and terraced houses and a two-bedroom apartment.
Exterior finishes take their influence from the local architectural vernacular and include red and yellow decorative brickwork, terracotta render and timber panelling. Distinctive elevations and varying rooflines have been used to create a visually attractive development that fits well with the traditional buildings of the existing village.
Interiors provide classic contemporary detail with functional design of the highest quality. Most houses offer combined kitchen/dining rooms and purchasers can choose from a range of fully fitted custom built kitchens and worktops. Bathrooms are fitted with stylish white sanitary ware. 
Walsham le Willows is an excellent base from which to enjoy the Suffolk countryside and the market towns of Diss and Bury St. Edmunds are just over 12 and 14 miles away respectively. Diss has excellent rail links to some major towns with Ipswich and Norwich being approximately 23 minutes and London being approximately 1 hour 37 minutes by train.   
Prices at Elmside Lea start from £170,000 for a two-bedroom coach house, from £240,000 for a three-bedroom house and from £285,000 for a four-bedroom house. For sales information contact the marketing suite on 07766 306672 or visit hopkinshomes.co.uk.

Reydon
Blyth Place comprises 28 three- and four-bedroom family houses, located off Wangford Road. The seven different house designs have been inspired by the local Suffolk vernacular architecture, with a range of exterior finishes including traditional red and yellow brickwork and crisp buttermilk render creating a varied streetscape.
Internally, the traditional craftsmanship and contemporary fixtures and fittings are of the very highest standards. Purchasers can choose from a range of fully fitted custom built kitchens and work surfaces, subject to stage of construction. Bathrooms are fitted with chic white sanitary ware with chrome fixtures and fittings.
Prices start from £204,995 for a three-bedroom house and from £324,995 for a four-bedroom house. Call the marketing suite on 07786 950620 or visit: hopkinshomes.co.uk.

Elmswell
Blacksmith’s Way is a collection of 66 two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments, houses and townhouses.
The exterior finishes on the houses take their influence from the local architectural vernacular and include red and yellow decorative brickwork and terracotta render. Distinctive elevations and varying rooflines have been used to create a visually attractive development that fits well with the existing buildings of the village.
The village of Elmswell has a rich history that dates back to Roman times and the skyline is dominated by the impressive church of St John the Divine. The village has a variety of shops, two local country pubs and a thriving village primary school. 
Elmswell is ideally situated within the Suffolk countryside and is nine miles from the historical town of Bury St Edmunds, 18 miles from Ipswich and 37 miles from Cambridge. Elmswell is served by a local rail station and Bury St Edmunds is 11 minutes away, 25 minutes to Ipswich and 58 minutes to Cambridge by train. 
Prices for the remaining properties start from £142,500 for a two-bedroom apartment and from £249,995 for a four-bedroom house. Call 01359 242975 or visit hopkinshomes.co.uk.
 
Ipswich
Vista is a smart collection of new homes located just off the sought-after Woodbridge Road.
Only a short walk from the town centre, the development will comprise a stylish selection of one- and two-bedroom apartments and coach houses as well as two- and three-bedroom cottages and four-bedroom family homes.
Exterior façades will feature quality red bricks complimented by cream render, in keeping with the local Victorian style. Timeless and traditional street scenes will help create an established community feel.
Internally, the homes will be fresh and contemporary and feature open plan living areas in the cottages and apartments to maximise the use of light and space. The larger family homes will feature sizeable kitchen/breakfast rooms and separate living areas.
Only a mile from the train station, the scheme enjoys excellent transport links with London Liverpool Street just over an hour away.
Prices at Vista start from £112,500 for a one-bedroom apartment with two-bedroom cottages starting from £164,000. Part exchange is available on family houses. For more information or to book an appointment, contact Vista on 0870 757 8182 or visit crestnicholson.com.  

Amanda Shiel takes a look at the latest homes in this exciting part of London

Putney
Queen Mary’s Place is an exclusive residential development set within the historic grounds of Grade I listed Roehampton House.  
The current phase, Central Gardens, comprises of a collection of one- and two-bedroom apartments and three-and four-bedroom houses situated in Crescent Gardens and Garden Square. One house remains, priced at £560,000.  
There is also a selection of two- bedroom two bathroom apartments available at Queens Mary’s Square. Comprising 43 private apartments and luxury penthouses, the homes boast attractive views of the central courtyard area, surrounding gardens and nearby Roehampton House.
Priced from £375,000 to £535,000.
For further information visit queenmarysplace.co.uk or call 0870 850 1560.

Deptford
Located on Creek Road, Theatro is set on the former site of the historical School of Performing Arts.
The 40,000 sq ft development will mix 36 two- and three-bedroom apartments with commercial spaces.
Homes will offer contemporary design features including underfloor heating, controllable mood lighting, custom designer Poggenpohl kitchens, integral CCTV systems, video entry phones and secure parking. 
Only ten minutes walk from both Greenwich town centre and Deptford High Street, Theatro has a wealth of amenities and transport connections on its doorstep. London Bridge is only seven minutes away by train and Canary Wharf is eleven minutes away on the DLR.
Construction of Theatro started in January and is due to complete in June 09. One third of the apartments will be sold off plan. Show apartment will be ready for viewing from October 08.  Prices start at £420,000. Contact Union on 0800 043 2523 or James Talbot at King Sturge on 020 8318 5278.

Battersea
Located on Battersea Park Road, Viridian comprises light and airy studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments.
Homes feature a generous specification, relaxing bathrooms and sleek kitchens. All major rooms are wired for Sky+ TV. Basement car parking is provided, along with bike and scooter parking. To contribute to a greener environment, a car sharing club will be on site.
Viridian offers easy access to Oxford Street, Knightsbridge and Sloane Square via bus, tube or train. Richmond Park is only 39 minutes away by public transport while Battersea Park can be reached in just over 15 minutes.
Sales office for the latest phase together with a stunning show apartment opened on 16 January. Apartment prices start at £295,000.
For more information telephone Barratt on 0203 177 1052 or visit barratthomes.co.uk.

Vauxhall
Set over 14 floors, Kestrel House offers a selection of studios and one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments.
Internally the custom made Italian kitchens boast composite stone worktops and integrated stainless steel appliances and bathrooms and en suites benefit from Villeroy and Boch sanitary ware with chrome brass ware. Enhanced kitchen and bathroom specifications, together with comfort cooling to all main reception rooms, can be enjoyed in the upgraded Elite apartments.  
The majority of the properties offer breathtaking views of the River Thames from Battersea Power Station through to Westminster.  
St George Wharf lies adjacent to Vauxhall Bridge and opposite Vauxhall Cross which offers bus, underground and overland train services.  
The current selection at Kestrel House includes one-bedroom apartments from £459,950 and two-bedroom apartments from £909,950. A further launch is planned for spring.
Contact the sales and marketing suite on 020 7627 8699 or visit stgeorge-wharf.com.

Clapham
The Sanctuary comprises of eight boutique townhouses set within a gated development.
The properties are showcases for the very best contemporary architecture and design. Each have state-of-the-art kitchens, with Poggenpohl designed units, Bosch electric ovens, gas hobs and full height fridge freezer, reconstituted stone worktops and every appliance one could want. The bespoke bathroom suites are fitted with Grohe sanitaryware, limestone or porcelain flooring and wall tiles and underfloor heating.
The gardens and patios are landscape designed and benefit from pergolas and external lighting.  
Life in The Sanctuary offers stylish city living, yet in a more relaxed environment than that of central London.  
Three four-bedroom two bath houses remain, priced from £675,000. Show home is available to view. Contact the London Residential New Homes Team on 020 7173 4999 or visit knightfrank.com.

Twickenham
Candler Place consists of four four-bedroom townhouses and five apartments which have been designed to achieve an Eco Homes ‘Very Good’ rating and are loaded with environmental features.
Solar water heating will contribute to the domestic supply for each house and two of the apartments and an A rated energy efficient condensing boiler will run the gas fired central heating system. External communal areas will be lit by solar powered bollard lighting and residents will have that much-coveted accessory for modern commuting, a communal, lockable cycle store.
Homes include fine quality, contemporary fitted kitchen units with granite work surfaces and upstands, Siemens ovens, gas hobs and extractor hoods.  Integrated dishwashers, fridge/freezers and washer/dryers are also standard.  
Master bedrooms are en suite, with fitted wardrobes and chrome iron mongery.  Bathrooms are fitted with clean lined, white sanitary ware, polished chrome taps and fittings, Trevi mains showers in the ensuites, chrome towel rails and ceramic tiled walls and floors. 
The development is within walking distance of Twickenham station.
Priced from £674,950. For more information call Shanly Homes on 01372 225007 or visit the website at  shanlyhomes.com.

Anerley
Zen is located on Anerley Park Road, close to Crystal Palace Park and a short distance from the high street.
The 32 one-bedroom apartments were released for sale on 9 February for purchase under English Partnerships’ First Time Buyers Initiative scheme.
Four different styles of apartments at Zen give buyers plenty of choice. The homes are very well designed with an open-plan living/dining/ kitchen area that uses space to the best advantage. Fully equipped kitchens, by Paula Rosa, include a washer/dryer. Rooms are generously sized with a double bedroom and generous bathroom. An audio entry system provides peace of mind.
Anerley is a lively area with a good selection of shops, bistros and cafés and there is plenty more entertainment in neighbouring Norwood, Penge and Beckenham. Crystal Palace Park is just a short walk away..
Trains from Anerley Station run to London Bridge every half hour, taking just 20 minutes, and new train services are planned in preparation for the 2012 Olympics. Travelling by bus is equally convenient with a frequent direct bus service to Crystal Palace and Oxford Street. 
Apartments at Zen start from just £195,000.
To find out more about the First Time Buyers Initiative, or for details of the apartments, contact Barratt on 01959 568445 or visit barratthomes.co.uk..

Kennington
K-Point, a stylish collection of 28, 1 and 2 bedroom apartments, has all but sold out, with just one apartment remaining for sale.
Built to the highest specification, homes boast Italian designed kitchens with integrated appliances, including a touch control ceramic hob, stainless steel oven, chimney hood and splash back, with chrome downlighters to complete the look.
Situated just two miles from the city and within 10 minutes walk of Kennington tube station, K-Point’s location provides excellent transport links to Kings Cross, Victoria and Euston, as well as connections to Docklands, Westminster and the West End.
Contact the selling agent Barnard Marcus on 0800 023 2519 or visit kpoint-apartments.co.uk.

Larger homes are in short supply, partly as a result of the current emphasis on building apartments. However, Johnny Turner finds, there is still much for the family to like in the new homes market

Case study
Despite current fears about a difficult property market, buyers at Hopkins Homes’ exclusive development, Lawford Park in Lawford, Essex, are undeterred, with many of the purchasers of the most recent phase having waited in anticipation for over a year for these properties to be released for sale, and 75 per cent of the current phase has already been reserved.
Della Kinsmore, a housewife, and her husband Mark, an investment banker, both 44, recently bought a large four-bedroom detached house at the development. Mark and Della have lived in Lawford for the last 22 years. Della comments: ‘We like Lawford because it is green and feels like you are out in the country, however Colchester and Ipswich are only a few miles away. Mark commutes into the City every day, and trains from Manningtree station, which is a short distance down the road, only take an hour into London, which is a good journey. We have been waiting for 18 months to buy this house and we know that many others have done the same so we are not worried about our property depreciating in value.
While demand is so high, prices can only increase, and we are confident that there will always be a high demand for properties here because it is such an exclusive address.’
Della continues: ‘We are both really looking forward to the move, which we hope will be in early spring. This year will bring a few changes: our youngest, Alex (16), will finish school and start college and Melissa (18), our second eldest, will be moving away to university. Mark and I felt that we wanted to do something new for ourselves too. Whilst we have always gone for new properties, this is a much smaller development than anywhere we have ever lived before. We like the fact that the house is traditional in style but has all the benefits of a new build. I especially love the high ceilings, the wooden sash windows and our square living room, which creates a much more sociable living space than our current oblong living room.’
Claire Richards, Head of Sales and Marketing, Hopkins Homes, comments: ‘Houses from the latest phase at Lawford Park have sold phenomenally well and this is testament to the high quality craftsmanship of the properties and their magnificent setting. Lawford Park is a truly unique development designed around sweeping tree-lined avenues and is one of North Essex’s most exclusive new addresses. The high demand for property at Lawford Park reassures us that the market is not dead.’
The properties at Lawford Park combine traditional motte, ruby red and buff brick work with unusual and contemporary features such as pavilion roofs, pillared entrances and Dormer windows with some of the homes incorporating feature towers. Each property benefits from large timber frame sash windows and French doors in the kitchen to make the most of the rural views across The Stour Valley and its water meadows.
Internally, each property has been designed with careful consideration to create light and airy spaces that are as practical as they are impressive. Every home is finished to the finest specification and purchasers can take advantage of a luxury custom built kitchen package, choosing from a range of worktops, units and flooring and wall tiles to suit their tastes.
Ideally placed for commuters, Manningtree station is just 114 metres away and offers services into nearby Ipswich and Colchester, with a journey time of about ten minutes by train. The A12 is also easily accessible, providing routes south to Colchester, Chelmsford, London and north to Ipswich and the A14.
Prices for current availability start at £310,000 for a three-bedroom house.
To register your interest, or for further enquiries, please contact Christine Edwards on 01206 397024 or visit the website: hopkinshomes.co.uk.

Family foundations
Young professionals Faith Houston and Chris Harper chose to buy their first family home at Reading’s urban village Kennet Island. The couple chose a three-bedroom, two-bathroom town house which offered them flexible accommodation over three floors.
Faith Houston explains: ‘Our house gave us ‘ready made’ family living with a garden that came complete with turf and the added bonus of a shed.
‘The property has been very cleverly designed to create two separate living areas over two floors. This gives us the option to have ‘family living space’ for us and our daughter downstairs, with the added benefit of a further ‘adult only living zone’ on the first floor.’
‘We were also delighted with the high specification finish on our new home which meant so many extras came included within the asking price,’ Faith continued.
Her partner, Chris Harper echoes her sentiments: ‘We are really enjoying our new life on the island, its great to be away from the hustle and bustle of city life and yet we are still within such easy reach of the town centre.
‘The development is attracting a real mixture of buyers. We have lots of lovely neighbors, everyone is so sociable - there is a real community spirit evolving.
‘Location wise – we are spoilt for choice - we have so much on our doorstep, all within easy walking distance. Green Park has something to appeal to everyone: for those who enjoy the fresh air you can spend hours exploring the lovely walks in beautiful countryside. For foodies, there is a delicious restaurant, LSQ2. For those who want to stay fit, there is a big Cannons gym. There are also two great crèches, for those looking for childcare close to home.
The Madejski Stadium offers a variety of sporting events and they have a great Jazz Café we’ve been to a few times which is great. The retail park is also on our doorstep with B&Q and Comet and PC World. With Morrisons/Next/Laura Ashley etc just up the road. Basically we really are spoilt for choice. If you want to explore further a field, it only takes 40 mins to stroll into the town centre or less than 10 minutes by car.

Private and tranquil family life at Kingswood Chase
For Emil Jones space, privacy and tranquillity were the top priority when searching for a new home for him and his partner, Elissandra Da Costa, and his nine-year-old son. After searching Greater London for his ideal home, the 39-year-old IT manager at BP has bought a five bedroom, four bathroom detached house at Kingswood Chase by award winning St James Homes.
Built around a 19th century Grade II listed Victorian manor house, Kingswood Chase is an exclusive collection of 39 new and refurbished luxury properties surrounded by three acres of secluded woodland in Chislehurst, Kent.
Kingswood Chase is approached via a discreet tree lined avenue, offering the utmost in privacy and seclusion. Set within a gated environment, Emil’s house benefits from a detached double garage plus additional parking for several cars. Emil and Elissandra enjoy entertaining at home, and their new home provides the perfect environment to do so. There are separate sitting and family rooms, a large kitchen with separate dining room and a home entertainment room. The house also has a garden ideal for summer barbeques with friends.
‘For Elissindra and I, this is the perfect environment for us to settle indefinitely and to grow our family. There are a number of good state and private schools in the area, and we are close to the village centre while being just 25 minutes away from Central London. Chislehurst is not transient by nature, which is very appealing to us. Residents in the area have lived there for many years and the sense of community and neighbourliness is evident.’
When Emil heard that St James was developing in the area, he made enquiries immediately: ‘St James has an unrivalled reputation for building quality homes, so buying off plan was not a problem. Having seen the marketing material for the development, and being allowed onsite before building commenced, I was confident to buy into Kingswood Chase. The sales process was straightforward and the staff were extremely friendly and responsive to my needs.’
Outside space is a central ethos at Kingswood Chase. Emil continues: ‘At Kingswood Chase you get the feeling of living in the countryside. The development is surrounded by woodland that provides rural seclusion and the picturesque green spaces of Marvels Wood and Scadbury Park are nearby. I am also impressed with the effort St James has made to conserve the environment by installing ground source heat pumps for five detached family homes.’
Emil and Elissindra are looking forward to enjoying the wide range of leisure facilities within close proximity of Kingswood Chase. Emil is a keen golfer and will have a choice between the prestigious Chislehurst and Sundridge Park Golf Clubs right on his doorstep. For Elissindra, the area is renowned for its designer boutiques, gastro pubs and restaurants, and the cosmopolitan villages of Bromley and Blackheath are nearby, whilst Bluewater
Shopping Centre is just a short drive away. Meanwhile, Emil’s nine-year-old son is a budding karter and will be spending time at the nearby famous Brands Hatch racing circuit.
Getting to work from Chislehurst is easy for Emil who works in Stockley Park, near to Heathrow. There are convenient road links with the A20, M20 and M25 providing access to Heathrow and Gatwick Airports. Elmstead Woods station is just a short walk away from Kingswood Chase with direct trains into London Bridge, Waterloo East and Charing Cross in 25 minutes.
The first showhouse at Kingswood Chase is open to be viewed by appointment only. Prices start from £560,000 for a two-bedroom apartment to £2.4 million for a six bedroom detached house.
For further information please visit kingswood-chase.co.uk or call 0870 850 1522.

Homes in the countryside offer a relaxed lifestyle. Amanda Shiel takes a look at what’s available

Mulbarton, Norfolk
Mulberry Gardens comprises 366 one- and two-bedroom apartments and two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom houses.
Internally the homes are of a classic yet contemporary design and are finished to the very highest standards. Purchasers can choose from a selection of designer kitchen cupboards and work surfaces, subject to stage of construction, and selected homes include a range style oven. Bathrooms are fitted with white suites with chrome fixtures and fittings.
The pretty village of Mulbarton is just seven miles from Norwich and gives easy access to the M1. The village has a primary and middle school, post office and village store, a traditional pub, farm shop and a medical and dental surgery.
Prices start from £179,995 for a three-bedroom house, from £284,995 for a four-bedroom house and from £499,995 for a five-bedroom house. For further information contact the marketing suite on 01508 578078 or visit hopkinshomes.co.uk.

Stansted Mountfitchet, Essex
Comprising spacious one- and two-bedroom apartments and two bedroom duplex apartments, St Johns offers the comfort of modern design while being surrounded by the tranquillity of the stunning historic village.
Inside, the duplex apartments boast a beautiful wooden spiral staircase, with chic chrome features which leads up to the bedrooms. The open living area in each apartment is benefited by exceptionally high ceilings and French doors which lead out to a balcony.
The open plan Urban Myth kitchen is fitted with Smeg appliances which include a stainless steel electric oven, stainless steel electric gas hob, fridge/freezer and washer/dryer. The stylish bathrooms are fitted with crisp white Ideal Standard sanitary ware. The security features of each apartment include a video entry phone system and electric gate to the developments secure underground garage. 
Stansted Mountfitchet is conveniently positioned just 50 minutes away from London’s Liverpool Street Station, Cambridge is less than 30 miles away and Stansted airport is seven miles away, making it the ideal location for travel connections both nationally and internationally.
Show apartment open daily between 10am-5pm. Prices for duplex apartments start from £275,000 for a two-bedroom, two bathroom apartments with balconies. Standard one-bedroom apartments are priced from £179,995 and two-bedroom apartments from £232,500. Contact Higgins Homes on 01279 813 986 or visit higginshomes.co.uk.

Farnham Royal, Berkshire
The Grange is a collection of two-, three- and four-bedroom homes.
The Grange is very well connected with direct trains from Burnham Railway Station to London, as well as the M40, M4 and M25 motorways all within a few minutes drive of the village. Homes in Farnham Royal are highly sought-after, not only by professionals, but also families who benefit from a village lifestyle while still having easy access to Slough and Beaconsfield town centres, as well as a host of reputable schools.
Prices start from £330,000. For further information contact the sales and marketing suite and show
home, which is open daily 10am–5pm, on 01753 647 400. Alternatively visit lindenhomes.co.uk.

Worth, West Sussex
Banner Homes is to create an up-market new collection of fourteen houses and apartments on the site of the former Barnwood Hotel. 
The development will comprise of five four- and five-bedroom detached homes and some exclusive two-bedroom apartments. The homes are set to appeal to professionals and families who are looking for quiet village living combined with access to great transport links.
The detached homes include a spacious kitchen/breakfast room with French doors that open out onto the garden, a separate lounge, dining room and a cloakroom. Upstairs, there is a master bedroom complete with an en-suite and either fitted wardrobes or a dressing area, the second bedroom comes complete with its own fitted wardrobes and in some instances a en-suite and a further family bathroom is also available, along with plenty of storage space.
The two bedroom apartments consist of a contemporary kitchen, spacious lounge, master bedroom complete with en-suite and fitted wardrobes, family bathroom and a second bedroom complete with fitted wardrobes.
All the homes at Barnwood Place will also benefit from a garage or allocated car parking.
For further information about the properties now available off-plan, contact Banner Homes Wessex on 0870 1978822 or visit bannerhomes.co.uk.
 
Kirdford, West Sussex
Bourn Meadows is a stunning collection of traditional-style two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom homes set around a lovely village green. .
Homes at the development are fitted to a high specification. Each kitchen is fitted with granite worktops and a full range of integrated appliances including a double oven, ceramic hob, fridge/freezer, dishwasher and washing machine whilst the elegant bathrooms and en suites are fitted with white sanitaryware from Twyford’s Galerie range. 
Prices start from £315,000 for a two-bedroom terraced home. Show home now open. Contact Rydon Homes on 01403 820824 or see rydonhomes.co.uk for more details.

Newell Green, Nr Bracknell, Berkshire
The cottages at Newell Green Farm feature light, spacious accommodation.
Fitted kitchens boast a comprehensive range of appliances in a stainless steel finish. Each of the three bedrooms has built-in wardrobes and the master benefits from en-suite facilities while the remaining two are served by the main bathroom.
Externally, gardens are beautifully designed and each of the properties has its own garage – something that is increasingly rare in today’s new homes.
Prices for the remaining three-bedroom, cottage-style properties start at £415,000. For further information visit millgatehomes.co.uk.

Ashtead, Surrey     
Warren Court comprises a selection of one- and two- bedroom apartments exclusively for the over 65s.
The apartments offer classically proportioned rooms finished to an exceptional specification. Home owners benefit from an elegant drawing room, beautifully landscaped communal grounds and a concierge service.
The development is situated off the Leatherhead Road, less than half a mile from Ashtead’s bustling village high street.
Prices at Warren Court range from £249,950 to £360,000. For further details on the homes and of the Assisted Move scheme visit the sales and marketing suite, open daily from 10am–4pm, or call  01372 276098. Outside of these hours, call selling agent Patrick Gardner & Co on 01372 360832 or visit millgatehomes.co.uk.


Great Baddow, Essex                                                                     
Clarion Gate will consist of 119 two- and three-bedroom cottages, two-, three- and four-bedroom houses and 74 one- and two-bedroom apartments, all centred around a striking village green. 
The development, due to launch early this year, is conveniently located on Beehive Lane, just 1.5 miles from the centre of Chelmsford and the mainline train station. The A12 is also within easy reach, providing excellent access to the M1 and M25. Alternatively, Stansted Airport is just less than twenty miles away.
Prices have not yet been set but are likely to range from approximately £165,000.
For more information and to register interest for the forthcoming launch, contact Crest Nicholson on 01277 693230 or visit crestnicholson.com.  

Little Canfield, Essex
The Thatchams is the first phase of homes at Priors Green occupying a prominent position within the village. Two village ponds front the development and the two-, three- and four-bedroom houses flank tree-lined boulevards. There are also two landscaped children’s play areas at the heart of the development.
Internally great emphasis has been placed on creating well proportioned, light and airy living spaces. Houses feature open plan kitchen/breakfast or kitchen/living areas, with doors leading onto a garden. Master bedrooms have either fitted wardrobes or dressing rooms and an en-suite shower or bathroom fitted with sleek white sanitary ware and chrome fixtures and fittings.
Bishop’s Stortford is just over six miles from The Thatchams and has a wide range of high street and boutique shops, cafes, bars and restaurants, as well as excellent local schools. Priors Green is conveniently located just four miles from junction 8 of the M11. There are regular trains to London Liverpool Street from Bishop’s Stortford train station, taking approximately 43 minutes. London Stansted Airport is just under three miles from the development.
Prices at start from £200,000 for a two-bedroom house, from £236,000 for a three-bedroom house and from £350,000 for a four-bedroom house. Contact the Marketing Suite on 0845 071 2072 or visit thatchams.net.