New Homes - September, 2007

More of us lead a double life, spending a substantial part of our time abroad. That’s why it’s important to have a home that provides a worry-free, easy-to-reach pied-a-terre

Wokingham, Berkshire

Millgate Homes has unveiled designs for its flagship Wokingham development, Imperial Court. Lying within a quarter of a mile of the town centre on Reading Road, the collection of forty-two, one- and two-bedroom apartments is the first of a series of Platinum developments, exclusively for those aged 55 or above.

The landmark building has been carefully designed to reflect Wokingham’s existing architecture, with its classic lines reminiscent of the fine period properties that grace the town centre. Millgate’s team of dedicated architects drew inspiration from the historic Shute End terrace to create a scheme of timeless elegance, while the use of the finest raw materials, time honoured building techniques and established landscaping will combine to make Imperial Court appear as if it has always been there.
Residents will enjoy an environment akin to that of a top class hotel, with a concierge service on hand to take care of everything from arranging transport to and from airports, to making restaurant and theatre bookings and taking deliveries. In addition to lifestyle management, purchasers will enjoy an elegant residents’ drawing room, landscaped gardens that will allow them to enjoy a beautiful outdoor space without the hassle of maintenance, and the use of five-star guest accommodation.
The apartments at Imperial Court are due to launch 20 October 2007. To register interest and ensure you receive privilege details, call Richard Worth 0118 979 6796. Alternatively, visit millgatehomes.co.uk.

Crawley, West Sussex

The platinum apartments at Pembroke Court are ideal for those looking to downsize from a larger home and garden. Not only are they easy to maintain, but they cost less to run than a larger, older property and offer a lovely landscaped setting which can be enjoyed without spending time and energy on gardening. The provision of a guest suite for overnight visitors also means less work when friends and family come to stay.

One of the most important benefits of living at Pembroke Court is the peace of mind that comes from having a house manager on call 24 hours a day, who in the event of an emergency can be contacted by means of the discreet alarm system fitted to each property.
As Pembroke Court is designed for the over 55s, anyone buying can also be sure of living in a community of like-minded people without being ‘set apart’ from the wider community.
Pembroke Park itself, home to Pembroke Court, offers a wide range of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, two-, three- and four-bedroom houses and even live/work duplexes. The development is within easy reach of Crawley town centre, with its county Mall Shopping Centre. Transport links are excellent; Three Bridges station and Crawley station are within about half a mile of the development and the M23 and A23 are within easy reach. Gatwick airport is very accessible, which will be appreciated by the ‘lock up and leave’ buyers who spend part of the year abroad.

Prices for the platinum apartments at Pembroke Court start from £190,000 for a one-bedroom property. Contact Fairview New Homes on 01293 539318, seven days a week from 10am to 5 pm. For information on all developments by Fairview New Homes visit fairview.co.uk.

Reigate, Surrey

Charles Church’s exclusive High Cedars development offers the perfect place to call home for those who work at, or commute regularly from, Gatwick Airport. With the airport just eight miles away by car and only sixteen-minutes by train, Reigate really is the ideal place to call home.
High Cedars offers luxury spacious apartments surrounded by mature trees and landscaping, located in a gated and secure development. Each apartment has been finished to the highest of standards. Internally, the homes benefits from high quality kitchens equipped with a comprehensive range of appliances including a stainless steel double oven, microwave and five ring gas hob with stainless steel extractor hood and splash back and an integrated fridge freezer, dishwasher and washer/dryer.
Bathrooms and en-suite facilities exude style and sophistication and are fitted with Ideal Standard Sottini white sanitaryware with chrome mixer taps and thermostatic shower enclosures.
Reigate town centre includes an array of cafes, coffee shops, restaurants, bars and a wide selection of shops catering for all tastes. It has recently become one of the most desirable Surrey towns to live in, with its historic period buildings adding to its appeal.
Prices range from £349,950 and £599,950. The marketing suite is open daily between 10am and 6pm. Call 01737 248842 or visit charleschurch.com for more details.

Salford, Manchester

With its close proximity to Manchester International Airport and competitively priced new houses and apartments, Charles Church’s Fairhills Point development in Irlam has already become a favourite with airport staff.
The development offers a selection of two-bedroom apartments and three-, four- and five-bedroom two- and three-storey houses.

Fairhills Point is in the metropolitan borough of Salford, on the north bank of the River Irwell. Fairhills Road, which is adjacent to the development, leads to Irlam’s main shopping complex which offers everything from butchers and grocers to large retail units and superstores.
Prices currently ranging from £133,500. The sales office is open between 10.30am and 5.30pm from Thursday to Monday. Call 0161 776 2771 or visit charleschurch.com for further details.

Iver Heath, Bucks

Linden Homes has been given the green light to go ahead with plans to build twelve three- and four-bedroom homes in the village of Iver Heath.
Situated off Slough Road, Pinehurst will offer a range of house types which will be built in a traditional style and in keeping with the surrounding village vernacular.
Set within beautiful countryside, the village has many local amenities on offer, including local shops, a post office and various pubs and restaurants. Further larger supermarkets can be found in nearby Uxbridge, which is less than three miles away.

Pinehurst is perfect for families as it offers a safe and secure environment in which to raise children. Iver Heath Junior School and Iver Heath Infant School are close to hand and both have received good Ofsted reports.
The village benefits from having excellent links to the M25 and M40. Iver Heath train station provides excellent links to London with Uxbridge tube station less than a mile away.
For more information contact Linden Homes on 01628 495980 or lindenhomes.co.uk.

Keston, Kent

Holwood is a new crescent of two- and three-bedroom properties surrounded by 74 acres of woodland. Situated midway between Orpington and Bromley, this was once the home of William Pitt who took up residence in the original mansion built for him on the Holwood estate in1785.
Behind an elegant classical stucco and brick exterior, each of the spacious apartments has the same high level advanced specification. This includes sleek fitted eat-in kitchens with solid granite worktops, complete with a full range of contemporary integrated appliances, bath and shower rooms with sanitaryware by Porcelanosa, contemporary wardrobes built into the master suites, and ceramic tiled or carpeted floors laid throughout.

75 per cent of homes are already sold, however there is now a limited opportunity to purchase from the final phase release. All remaining apartments come with two reserved places in the secure underground parking bay, which is accessed internally by lift or stairs, and there is also a bicycle store.
Prices range from £400,000 for a two-bedroom apartment to £1.2m for the grandest of three-bedroom units.
A reception/opening for this phase will take place 13 October. For further details on this and/or to obtain a full colour brochure or view the show apartments, contact the marketing suite on 01689 60952 or visit taylorwimpey.co.uk/holwood.

Sutton, Surrey

Located on an attractive corner of tree lined Stanley Road, Esprit offers a choice of 15 two-bedroom apartments, three- and four-bedroom townhouses.
The custom designed kitchens come complete with an integrated oven and extractor hood in stainless steel, ceramic hob, integrated washer/dryer and fridge/freezer. The bathrooms and en-suites are in classic white with chrome fittings.

Homes also boast elegant cherry-effect doors, electric under floor heating, down lighters in the hall, kitchens, bathrooms and en-suites, wiring for satellite TV and an audio entry phone system in the apartments. Each home also has allocated parking.
The residential areas are tranquil and tree-lined, yet transport and other amenities are within easy reach. With train journey times into central London of around 30-40 minutes, it’s the perfect choice for city commuters. Trains from Sutton to Gatwick take about an hour and a half, while from Sutton to Luton Airport Parkway station is just over an hour.

Prices start from £249,950 for an apartment and from £469,950 for a townhouse. Current release includes ten plots. Rushmon is offering to pay stamp duty on properties purchased before 30 September. For further information about Esprit or any Rushmon Homes developments, visit rushmonhomes.co.uk or call 01932 586777.

Amanda Shiel takes a look at some of the finest developments on offer in the garden of England

Faversham

Arterrra offers a rare opportunity for homebuyers to purchase an apartment or house in an environment that has been carefully designed to ensure a combination of attractive street scenes, private and communal gardens and a sense of character and individuality.  When complete, Arterra will comprise 103 properties, with nine different styles of one- and two-bedroom apartments and seven different types of three- and four bedroom houses.

Two of the new homes that have just been release will definitely appeal to families, providing four-bedrooms and a beautifully planned living space. There’s an impressive open-plan kitchen/dining room and a study on the ground floor, a generously-proportioned living room and guest bedroom with adjoining bathroom on the first floor and three-bedrooms, including a master bedroom with its own en-suite shower room on the uppermost floor. 
Situated on Whitstable Road, the development enjoys a great location within the town. The railway station is only about 10 minutes’ walk away and the 10-acre Mount Ephraim Gardens, with orchards, a vineyard, lake, water garden, rose terraces and a Japanese-style rock garden, are almost on the doorstep. 

Nestling between the rolling Downs and the North Kent marshes, Faversham enjoys a reputation as a charming town with a lively sense of community and offers a fantastic blend of historic buildings and modern shops, restaurants, cafes and pubs but, as it isn’t on the main tourist trail, the pace of life is much less frenetic than in towns such as Canterbury.
Prices start from just £249,995. Further information on Arterra, is available from Fairview New Homes on 01795 534293.  Details of all Fairview New Homes’ developments are available on the website: www.fairview.co.uk.

Greenhithe

Countryside Properties has released Fusion at Waterstone Park, a brand new collection of modern one- and two-bedroom apartments and two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom houses set in the centre of a parkland development.
Waterstone Park enjoys an ideal location, with Bluewater on its doorstep, offering North Kent residents a superb alternative to Oxford Street.

Residents also benefit from excellent transport connections. The M25, A2, M2 and M20 give convenient motorway access and Stone Crossing and Greenhithe railway stations are just minutes away, where journey times to London are approximately 40 minutes. The new international and domestic station at nearby Ebbsfleet, due to open in 2009, will bring London within 17 minutes and from autumn this year the international services commence making Paris and Brussels reachable within two hours.
Prices at Waterstone Park currently start at £174,000 for one-bedroom apartments, £208,000 for two-bedroom apartments, £320,000 for three-bedroom houses and £385,000 for four-bedroom homes for all 2008 occupations. Incentives are available. Call 01322 313835 or visit waterstonepark.co.uk.   

Sevenoaks

Ide Hill Park is an exclusive development of eight mansion-style homes, each boasting private gardens and most with far reaching views over Kent’s undulating countryside.
The properties have been finished to the highest possible standards, with key rooms boasting furniture from renowned designer Mark Wilkinson. A concierge service will also be offered at this private gated residence.
The quaint town of Sevenoaks offers a variety of independent boutiques and high street brands. Travel connections in the area are excellent; Sevenoaks train station offers regular services to London Bridge, Waterloo, and Charing Cross in less than 35 minutes. By car, central London is less than 35 miles away, while for weekends on the continent, jet setters can take advantage of Heathrow, Gatwick and The Channel Tunnel, which are all within easy reach.

Prices for the remaining country homes by Millgate are from £3,250,000. Mansion apartments and mews cottages are also available, with prices ranging from £665,000 to over £1,600,000. Contact Frances Kavanagh or Clare Wilson at the sales and marketing suite on 01732 750188 or the appointed selling agents, Savills on 01732 789700. Alternatively, visit idehillpark.co.uk.

West Malling

Burlington Place in Kings Hill comprises a collection of one- and two-bedroom apartments and two-, three- and four-bedroom houses.
Each home blends traditional architecture with the very best in modern design and high specification. Kitchens are smart and contemporary and contain a selection of Bosch appliances including an electric oven, gas hob and extractor hood with stainless steel splash back, integrated fridge/freezer and dishwasher. The stylish bathrooms feature pure white sanitary ware from Roca alongside sleek chrome Hansgrohe fittings.

Residents will become part of an integrated community, benefiting from a comprehensive mix of leisure, retail, sports, education and business facilities.
West Malling railway station is located one and a half miles from Kings Hill, with frequent direct trains to both London Bridge and London Victoria which take approximately an hour.
Prices for apartments at Burlington Place start from £225,000 and the houses from £259,995. For further information call 0870 755 9760 or visit crestnicholson.com.

Ashford

The latest release at the Paddocks at De Montford Park includes a range of two-, three- and four-bedroom homes, including some large detached properties.
The Medlock comes with a kitchen, living room, dining room, utility room, understairs storage, downstairs cloakroom, family bathroom and en-suite shower room, while the Weaver has a further en-suite and a study. Prices start at £235,000 for a Medlock home and £305,000 for a Weaver.
The four-bedroom Ouse comes with a spacious lounge, kitchen/dining room, utility room, downstairs cloakroom and en-suite to master bedroom. The Lambourne displays a similar layout – but with a separate kitchen and dining/living area. Prices begin at £210,000 for an end-terrace.
A small selection of two-bedroom apartments are also available, with prices beginning at £152,995.
Some of the homes will also be available to buy with part exchange.
For more information visit the development, off Tithe Barn Lane, open daily from 10am to 5.30pm or call 0845 676 0332. Alternatively, log onto redrow.co.uk/developments/view/99.

Canterbury

Connection, located in the heart of Canterbury, comprises of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and duplexes with garages.
The development is located just minutes from Canterbury East Station which provides a direct rail service to London Victoria, Dover and Ashford.  The motorway network is easily accessed with the M20 and M2 motorways nearby, connecting you easily with Kent’s main towns, the M25 and central London.
Prices for apartments at Connection start at £174,,995 for a one-bedroom apartment and from £205,995 a two-bedroom apartment. The development is open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm.  For full details call 01227 765387 or visit fairview.co.uk. 

Maidstone

With a fantastic location at Fairmeadow, and with views over the River Medway on one side and Brenchley Gardens on the other, Aspects is the ultimate in cool and contemporary waterside living.
The development includes 88 one- and two-bedroom apartments. Each home offers a stylish specification which boasts a designer fitted kitchen with a range of integrated appliances and a classic white bathroom with chrome fittings. En-suite shower rooms are features to some apartments and private, electronically-controlled residents parking is another benefit.
The town centre offers an abundance of restaurants, bars and leisure facilities which include theatres, an amphitheatre, and a multiplex cinema, as well as the Millennium River Park on the banks of the River Medway.   

Maidstone is ideally positioned to enjoy easy access to London by rail - Cannon Street and Victoria Stations are both within an hour - while the M20 puts the coast within easy reach.
Prices for apartments start at £209,995 for a two-bedroom apartment. The development is open daily from 10am to 5pm. Call 01622 768363 or visit fairview.co.uk.  
Rochester

Housebuilder Bellway is to launch its elegant new apartment development in the heart of Rochester. The contemporary apartment block, to be called Lyon Court, is situated on the High Street and will comprise a collection of new sixty-eight one- and two-bedroom apartments and will also include the refurbishment of an existing building. 
There will be two retail units – one new-build and one created from the existing building structure. The development will include eight affordable units which are being handled by Bellway Housing Trust.
Details of the development, including prices, will be unveiled nearer the launch with first occupations expected for Spring 2008.
To register interest call the Bellway Thames Gateway South office on 01689 886400.

Home is where the heart is and at Hurstfield in Ticehurst, a development by award-winning housebuilder Millwood Designer Homes, this adage has never rung truer. Eight of the homes have already been snapped up off-plan making now the time to take a closer look at this select collection and plot 8, the Home of the Week.

This four-bedroom mid terrace home enjoys the added benefit of a garage, a prime position within Hurstfield and views over undulating countryside. What more could you want? Moreover, as the Home of the Week, it benefits from carpets and a landscaped rear garden, in addition to Stamp Duty* paid and Legal fees* paid.

Roseanne Bullen, Sales Director Designate for Millwood Designer Homes comments: “Hurstfield is an extremely sought after village and this coupled with the Millwood Designer Homes brand has led to the fantastic early sales success. The Home of the Week affords discerning purchasers the chance to benefit from various incentives making now the ideal opportunity to buy.”

The home has a traditional style with white weatherboarding stylishly contrasted by black design details and wrought-iron railings. Internally, the specification is impeccable with individually styled kitchens by Inca, which feature a wealth of Siemens appliances, including a ceramic hob, stainless steel cooker hood, oven and an integrated fridge/freezer and dishwasher. The main bathroom and en-suites have sumptuous white sanitaryware by Ideal Standard with chic chrome fittings, a heated towel rail and ceramic wall and floor tiling by Porcelanosa.

Ticehurst has many amenities of its own, boasting a greengrocer, butcher and general store, and a pub serving excellent food. Meanwhile, the nearby towns of Wadhurst and Royal Tunbridge Wells offer a wealth of further shops, restaurants and excellent primary and secondary schools.

Despite the rural environment, Ticehurst is well placed for communication links, with both Wadhurst and Stonegate railway station easily accessible and offering services to Royal Tunbridge Wells in less than 10 minutes and Cannon Street and London Charing Cross respectively, in approximately 60 minutes. The A21 is nearby and leads to the M25, which is approximately a 45 minute drive away.

The Home of the Week is priced at £395,000. For more information, call the Show Home and Marketing Suite daily between 10am and 5pm, or the appointed selling agents, Wood and Pilcher on 01892 511211. Alternatively, you can visit the company website at www.mdh.uk.com

HOLBOROUGH

Berkeley Homes (South East London) Ltd is transforming the former Holborough Quarry in Kent into a new community providing around 1,000 homes complete with landscaping, and water features. Holborough is one of three strategic development sites in Kent allocated by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister for new housing, and the site is identified as a strategic development for housing in the Kent regional development plan.

Welcome to Holborough

 In line with Berkeley Homes continuing strategy of delivering environmentally sustainable projects the company have worked to ensure that Holborough is an environmentally friendly development. Holborough is regarded as an environmental sustainability benchmark for the Berkeley Group with ecology forming a key element of the scheme. A rich mix of wetland, woodland and chalk down environments surround the properties at Holborough.

In conjunction with environmental consultants and planners, Berkeley Homes has gone to great lengths to survey the existing wildlife and biodiversity, mitigate and monitor the effects on it, and create new habitats such as chalk down areas, new woodland and ponds. This will ensure that the populations of birds, newts, slowworms, bats, fish and many wild plant species will be able to flourish in and around the development. Located close to a lake and native woodland, new habitats have been created providing plenty of wild life interest to compliment existing Nature Conservation Sites and Sites of Scientific Interest.

Together with views to the North Downs and the established local facilities in Snodland, Holborough provides a great combination of urban and country living. In addition to its biodiversity, Holborough is also an important urban extension to the nearby community of Snodland. The area will benefit from a network of new pathways and cycle routes for the enjoyment of residents and the wider community, helping to reduce noise and air pollution from traffic. In addition to this there will be provision of a new bus route through the site as well as improvements to existing bus routes to Rochester and West Malling.

Holborough will take seven years to complete and will be built on a phased basis, providing approximately 1000 two, three, four and five bedroom homes and one and two-bedroom apartments for private sale as well as affordable properties, arranged over the 33.26 hectare site. Each phase will have its own distinct identity, embracing the natural landscape.

The first homes to be built at Holborough will be located around the main tree-lined boulevard, complemented by ornamental waterways and an impressive water feature. Those built in latter phases will benefit from spectacular lakeside views. Designed by architects O’Keefe Scanlon Partnership, the architecture will follow the highly successful design precedent found at the nearby award winning Leybourne Lakes development. Offered in a variety of colours and featuring attractive balconies or gardens these ‘New England’ properties will blend seamlessly with their rural surroundings. Juxtaposing different property types the development provides an attractive mix of varying storey heights and contrasting facades, eaves and rooflines.

Contemporary interiors at Holborough are a striking contrast to the rural feel outside. Living areas are light and airy with subtle lighting. Muted tones add to the feeling of relaxation while expansive glazing allows light to flood in making the most of the scenery outside. Top floor apartments, which feature spectacular double height ceilings, provide an even greater sense of space. Kitchens boast a range of modern appliances perfectly integrated into carefully designed layouts while bathrooms are havens of relaxation and feature designer sanitaryware by Hansgrohe and Villeroy and Boch.

At Holborough, outdoor space is just as important as stylish interiors and most properties benefit from either a balcony or garden from which to appreciate the surrounding Kent countryside.

Location and Transport  

Ideally located between the M2 to the north and M20 to the south, Holborough occupies an enviable strategic position in the south east of England with easy access to local major routes. Situated between the main employment centres of Maidstone to the south east and Gillingham to the north, the area has seen the local population rise to over 9,000. The Borough’s own employment rate has also risen by 12.4% since 1995.

Situated just off the A228, Holborough benefits from both a rural location and excellent transport links. Access to the motorway network via the M2 and M20 is easy with the M25 approximately 17 miles away and a typical journey time into central London of around 1 hour. The nearby M20 also puts the Channel Tunnel towns of Folkstone and  Dover within easy reach. Rail provides alternative links into the city with connections from nearby Snodland (1 hour*) and West Malling (50 mins*) stations. A new Channel Tunnel Rail link station planned for Ebbsfleet will make travel into London and to the continent even quicker. The estimated journey time to London St. Pancreas will be around 15 minutes+ and Paris and Brussels will take around 2 hours and 1 hour 45 minutes+ respectively.

The Local Area

Located in the heart of Kent the scheme benefits from a variety of excellent leisure facilities and amenities as well as offering some fascinating places to explore. There are a host of outdoor leisure pursuits to enjoy including county walks and cycle paths as well as sailing, windsurfing, canoeing and diving at the nearby Leybourne Lakes Watersports Centre. A great area to explore, there’s something to discover around every corner. Nearby Rochester is steeped in history examples of which include Rochester Castle, a fine example of Norman architecture, Rochester Cathedral, England’s second oldest cathedral, or the Guildhall museum, a fascinating, repository of artefacts and information. Gillingham also has some interesting attractions including its Historic Dockyard, Fort Amherst and The Royal Engineers’ Museum.

For leisure and shopping, you can visit nearby Bluewater Shopping Centre, or the newly opened ‘Fremlin Walk’ in Maidstone. Other local amenities include health and fitness clubs, food hypermarkets and a host of cafes and restaurants, including award winning dining at nearby West Malling.

Holborough – An Industrious Past

The name ‘Holanbeorge’ is mentioned in a charter relating to the quarry site dating from 838 AD. However, the site can trace its history back to 900BC. There is archaeological evidence that during the late Bronze and early Iron Age there was a local settlement and sword-making ‘factory’ that occupied the site. An archaeological excavation in the southwestern corner of the site also discovered the remains of an ancient village, granaries, kiln facilities and an extremely late bronze age stone sword mold – only three of which have been found in the UK. There is evidence of Roman and Saxon occupation in the area and the site also formed part of the pilgrim’s route between London and Canterbury.

The actual Holborough Quarry was started in 1596 when a chalk extraction pit was established on the site. The chalk was then converted by extreme heating into quicklime, which was used in building local homes. Partly due to the existence of local industry at the quarry providing employment, the population doubled in size between 1840 and 1857 and then trebled following the arrival of the Maidstone Rochester railway in 1859. During the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries a cement works was established at Holborough. In 1923 Major William Lee Henry Roberts, a former cavalry officer and friend of King Edward the VII opened the Holborough cement works at the quarry. Associated Portland Cement manufacturers acquired the works in 1931 and Berkeley Homes then bought the site in January 2004.

Far from being simply a place to hang your hat, property is now a very popular way to put your money to good use. Johnny Turner looks at the opportunities in the new homes market for those who are in search of a good investment  

With the current lack of supply of previously owned homes in the market, more of us are turning to new builds. For investors, newly built homes have always made the most sense, due to the fact that they come ready for the tenant to move into and are easy to maintain, among other things.The latest homes on the market demonstrate that developers are well aware of the number of buyers who intend to use their purchase as an investment vehicle: not only are the properties streamlined and no-hassle, but the sales process itself has also taken on these traits. A good example of this is Phoenix Parc, an Explore Living scheme in Northfleet, Kent. The development has become a hotspot for investors looking to capitalise on the regeneration of the Thames Gateway area and soon-to-open international rail link at Ebbsfleet station.Recent investors include Liz Jump, who has purchased a two-bedroom apartment with her brother, Tom Healey. Liz says, ‘As our first investment property, we were looking for something which would be a good nest egg for the future and would provide us with a good rental return.

Phoenix Parc seemed ideal, considering the ongoing regeneration of the area we felt it was exactly the right place to invest.‘Within ten days of completing on the property we secured a tenant and were delighted to have found someone so quickly. We didn’t need to do anything to the apartment as the specification of the properties is excellent and our tenant could move in straight away.’She cites the ‘effortless’ buying process as another plus: ‘The staff were extremely helpful, especially the site manager who really did go the extra mile to make sure that we were given the best service.’Phoenix Parc will be a collection of 151 one- and two-bedroom apartments and 34 two- and three-bedroom houses. The homes have spacious layouts and high specification, including fully integrated kitchens and flooring throughout as standard.Tenants will be wowed by the convenience, particularly with the completion of the high-speed rail link in 2009; travellers will be able to reach St Pancras station in less than 20 minutes. Also, Paris will be just over two hours away by Eurostar. At present, Northfleet station is very nearby, providing a convenient link to the capital.There are currently a range of two-bedroom apartments available at Phoenix Parc from £226,995. Call the sales and marketing suite on 0845 450 4360 or visit exploreliving.co.uk.

For those looking North for their investment, the Liverpool area is booming. In Wallasey, the weekend of 15 and 16 September sees the launch of the stunning penthouse apartments at the East Float development.Set in the historic mill building, the waterside apartments have already proven to be a massively popular addition to Wirral’s residential market with 143 of the 168 apartments already sold.Now purchasers are being offered the opportunity to view the stunning luxury penthouse range. The ten apartments, nine of which are duplexes, range in price from just £210,000 for a 1,200 sq ft two-bedroom penthouse to £275,000 for an incredible 1,862 sq ft three-bedroom duplex with waterside views and an outdoor terrace.Roxanne Stowell of selling agent Knight Frank says, ‘The penthouses at East Float Mill really do offer purchasers the wow factor so many purchasers look for now. Most are laid over two floors with super views over the water and feature attractive historic features combined with contemporary finishes. The confidence in the area continues to grow and East Float Mill is fantastically placed at the heart of the regeneration area.’The entire development consists of 168 contemporary loft-style apartments sympathetically converted by Edinburgh-based developer Gregor Shore. All apartments in the development come complete with dedicated car parking spaces included in the price. There is a range of finishes available for purchasers to choose from.For sales information contact Roxanne Stowell at Knight Frank on 0151 236 1101 or see knightfrank.com.

Another waterside treasure is St George’s Imperial Wharf in Fulham, where the latest phase of The Riverview Apartments includes beautifully specified one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and stunning three-bedroom penthouses. With interior design by award-winning Taylor Howes, these apartments have an sky-high specification, including comfort cooling and stunning contemporary designed fitted kitchens. The luxurious bathrooms have stone panelled heated walls and floors, bespoke shower enclosures with feature chrome rain showers and a new state-of-the-art integrated home entertainment system. From the balconies and terraces, residents will be able to enjoy the spectacular river views over landscaped gardens and courtyards towards the River Thames. Set among ten acres of landscaped parkland, the Riverview Apartments offer exquisite riverside living.Imperial Wharf is very well connected, which adds to its appeal to ideal for owner-occupiers, office workers and investors alike. Connections include an enhanced local bus service, the proposed new Imperial Wharf railway station and a river taxi service from the adjacent Chelsea Harbour, which offers efficient river travel to the City within 45 minutes. There is an impressive 385m riverside walkway and ten acres of landscaped parkland.Call the sales and marketing suite on 020 7610 9693 or see imperialwharf.com.

A great investor tips is the ingeniously designed studio suite at Ballymore’s Pan Peninsula, located moments from Canary Wharf. This is the ultimate piêd-à-terre, with luxury and convenience that truly maximises compact spaces. Flexibility is key here. The apartment includes a bedroom, lounge and kitchen but can be easily transformed to feature a generous dining area. Using ingeniously streamlined storage solutions, the studio is seamlessly changed into a compartmentalised living and entertaining space. ‘Compact spaces needn’t restrict your lifestyle,’ said Tricia Henderson, sales director at Ballymore. ‘The key to optimising square footage is finding clever space-saving solutions without compromising on quality. The Pan Peninsula studio was deliberately created with the finest materials to create a luxurious and entertaining living space.’The traditional kitchen surfaces are concealed under an innovative fold-away furniture top that operates on gas-lift hydraulics, skilfully adapted from the automotive industry – the first of its kind in a residential development. An ingenious top-loading dishwasher encourages vertical movement to keep adjacent areas clear and to give a clean and uncluttered look. The apartment has black porcelain floor tiles while the kitchen cabinets are crafted from striking quarter-cut blackened oak to help elongate the visual space. The kitchen even has a champagne fridge for entertaining. The thoughtful layout and clever storage solutions allow one area to serve two purposes. The dining room becomes a bedroom ass the double fold-down bed easily replaces the sizeable dining room table; there is customised slide storage for the table and chairs. A contemporary screen acts as a wall, separating the lounge area from the dining room/bedroom. The well-proportioned shower room incorporates an exotic Noir St Laurent marble and flooring made of honed Cohiba granite, maximising the feeling of space. Each suite has a heated marble wall for drying bathrobes and towels, warming towel rack and underfloor heating to skilfully streamline the space. These luxurious fixtures and fittings come as standard in the studio suites, and a light or dark colour palette is available to suit individual taste. Pan Peninsula, designed by the world-renowned architects Skidmore Owings & Merrill, will be one of the tallest residential skyscrapers in Europe. It is now 80 per cent sold, and studio suites start at £330,000. Contact the sales and marketing suite on 07000 720 720 or visit panpeninsula.com.

Up-and-coming Hackney is a favourite of investors, and Modern City Living’s recently launched Queensbridge Quarter is sure to grab the attention of the buy-to-let crowd. This sleek new 151-home mixed-tenure development, part of Hackney’s Holly Street regeneration programme, will feature 27 two- and three-bedroom houses, 83 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments (including two penthouses), one studio apartment for sale and 40 affordable housing apartments. Part of the area’s appeal is certainly the forthcoming tube station, due by 2010 as part of the East London Line Extension (ELLX). Prices for apartments at Queensbridge Quarter start at £265,000. For more information contact Currells on 020 7241 4111.

For those who want to keep abreast of upcoming developments, Imagine Homes has acquired a 25,632sq ft off-plan development in Darlington. Called City Heights and due for completion in January 2008, it is located on Victoria Road, West End, and will offer a choice of designer two-bedroom apartments.City Heights is sure to provide investors with excellent return on investment, as prices are showing healthy year-on-year growth, and demand for accommodation, from buyers and renters alike, continues to exceed supply.Consistent with Imagine Homes’ worry-free offering, investors in City Heights will receive a unique rental return of 7.5 per cent of the purchase price per year for two years.Grant Bovey, chief executive of Imagine Homes, says, ‘Darlington is an increasingly popular location for property investors and is experiencing considerable investment growth.’A further Imagine Homes site, in Birmingham, will also offer a strong buy-to-let opportunity. The Exchange is a selection of stylish one-, two- and three-bedroom new-build apartments in a highly sought-after location within Birmingham’s famous Jewellery Quarter. With a great selection of bars, restaurants and shops on the doorstep, the city centre hotspots are within easy reach. Birmingham New Street railway station is within walking distance and London is just an hour and a half away by train. The Exchange offers first rate road links to all parts of the UK including M5, M6, M40 and M42 and is a short distance to Birmingham International Airport.Prices at The Exchange currently start at a very attractive £143,000. For further details and to register your interest telephone 0800 458 5050. For more information about any Imagine Homes development visit imaginehomes.co.uk.

Crest Nicholson’s new Aspect development in Greenford has drawn a lot of interest from investors, as well as locals and first-time buyers – and no wonder. These homes are extremely well priced, particularly in comparison to nearby Ealing, just under two miles away.Investor purchasers, Javad Kabiri, an experienced investor, and was quick to move on this development. He and his cousin Aram Lachin were so confident of the development’s investment potential that they purchased three two-bedroom apartments at Aspect. Kabiri says, ‘The apartments at Aspect are the latest addition to my portfolio. Some might say it’s a bold purchase and that I should wait to see the level of interest in one flat before I buy a further two. However, I have been in this business for 16 years now and I know what my tenants want. The great location, less than half an hour from central London, combined with the local conveniences, like the Lidl food store on the ground floor of the development, will make Aspect very popular with residents who I predict will have fast-paced lifestyles and little time for the weekly food shop.‘We looked at a few other properties in Greenford, but the specification of Aspect really out shone the rest. I was expecting the price to reflect this but it actually offered great value for money. The rate at which the apartments are selling tells me that this is a sound investment.’Aspect is ideally situated for all that Greenford has to offer. This gated development comprises 76 one- and two-bedroom apartments arranged over four storeys. A stunning landscaped roof terrace is predicted to be the focal point of the development, providing the perfect place for the urban dweller to escape. Every apartment also has its own private car parking space. Sleek interiors, well-equipped kitchens and modern white bathrooms show that Crest Nicholson understands just what today’s quality tenant is looking for. Transport is also conducive to easy letting. Central Line services from Greenford tube station, a short bus ride from the development, take passengers to Oxford Circus in approximately 28 minutes. First Great Western services from South Greenford mainline station take around 25 minutes to Paddington. By car, there is quick access to Hanger Lane and the North Circular and the A40 and M4.Prices start from £224,950. Visit selling agents Rolfe East at 80 The Broadway, Greenford or call 0870 755 0846.

In well-connected Slough, Linden Homes Chiltern offers Verve, located in Mill Street. Here the developer offers investment buyers some serious incentives, including £1,000 a month guaranteed rental for two years – and those who reserve by 16 September will receive £1,000 towards their holiday.Linden is holding a special event that runs from 20–23 September; Thursday’s times are 4pm to 9pm and Friday to Sunday the event will last from 10am to 5pm.This stunning collection of one- and two-bedroom apartments is within walking distance of the station and town centre – perfect for the commuter tenant who works in the capital or Reading.For further information call 01753 577277.

In Colchester, Barratt’s Balkerne Heights has what tenants want: a convenient location, character, community links and great specification. Professional property investor Grant Dempsey is certainly convinced – in fact, he’s bought no fewer than three four-bedroom town houses at the development, and is even considering buying a fourth and maybe even a fifth home.The elegant development of apartments and houses is designed in the traditional colourful style of Essex architecture and sited on high ground and surrounded by open green fields.Dempsey says, ‘I’ve looked at other developments in Colchester, but I felt that Balkerne Heights had by far the best location, close to the town centre and station. I loved the development straight away. It has lots of character and a warm atmosphere, which makes it stand out against other sites in the town.’Dempsey, who lives in Broxbourne in South Hertfordshire and has been a property investor for eight years, is clear on the criteria for a good investment – and location in at the top. ‘I see Colchester as a growing vibrant town with a large number of major employers in the area and plenty on offer in the way of restaurants, bars and nightlife. For the young professional market I’m targeting it’s absolutely perfect.’Equally important are the travel links. ‘As an investor, one of the first things I look for is a good train link into London and so the station within walking distance of Balkerne Heights is a big plus,’ says Grant. The train service from Colchester North station into London’s Liverpool Street takes around 55 minutes and, in peak times, there can be up to a staggering ten trains each hour! Road links are equally good; the A12 provides fast access to the M25 and Stansted airport is just 45 minutes away.Balkerne Heights currently has three- and four-bedroom bedroom houses, priced from £294,995 to £394,995. Call 01206 765674 or see barratthomes.co.uk.

City Lofts St Pauls is a landmark development of 316 studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments set in two interlinking 12- and 32-storey towers in the heart of Sheffield City Centre. Designed by Conran & Partners, the development will provide an impressive contribution to the area’s £180 million regeneration project and will create Sheffield’s tallest building which will act as an iconic marker for the rejuvenated city centre. In addition to the residential element of the scheme, City Lofts St Pauls is part of a joint venture development with CTP St James which will also create approximately 22,000 sq ft of retail and leisure facilities. There is considerable landscaping, with the space between the two towers used as a private resident’s garden. Situated on the third floor level and accessed by a staircase from the entrance lobby, this space is surrounded by private terraces belonging to the third floor apartments, accessible from the bedrooms and reception rooms. Bordered by clipped yew hedges, the terraces provide residents with privacy while also a serving as a visual bridge between the architecture and the nearby green spaces. Residents in the tower will enjoy panoramic views over Sheffield City Centre and the newly created Winter Garden and Peace Garden below. There are also plans to include a communal roof terrace and residents will have two levels of integrated basement parking.City Lofts St Pauls is currently under construction and is due for completion in 2009. Call the marketing suite on 0114 272 3855 or see citylofts.co.uk for more information.

With more people now working from home the need to find a quiet space to work from increases. Amanda Shiel takes a look at some properties that are ideal for this purpose

Tunbridge Wells

The 17 luxurious apartments at Roedean Heights are centred around a landscaped communal garden surrounded by mature trees. Externally, the building incorporates rich cream rendering and red brick and includes mock Tudor beams so that it blends seamlessly with its Kent countryside setting.

Inside, each apartment offers substantial living space in a variety of layouts. Some ground floor apartments benefit from open plan living/dining areas which open out to private patios, whilst some first and second floor apartments have balconies or terraces overlooking communal gardens. Master bedrooms all have en-suite bathrooms, with either an en-suite bathroom or additional shower room in the two-bedroom apartments. Both bedrooms benefit from fitted wardrobes. 

Kitchens are fully fitted with Siemens stainless steel appliances and granite work tops provide an elegant finish. Bathrooms feature crisp white designer sanitaryware by Philippe Starck with Hansgrohe Metropole mixer taps. Ceramic tiled flooring and full height wall tiles to the shower cubicles create a clean, crisp look.

Apartments also incorporate state-of-the-art technology with a smart cabling system which allows technology to be arranged throughout the home.
Roedean Heights is within walking distance of the town centre and Tunbridge Wells station. Amenities include the Royal Victoria Place shopping centre, department stores, delicatessens and designer shops combined with more traditional small specialist outlets. There is also a wide range of sophisticated bars and restaurants in the area.

Prices at Roedean Heights start from £365,000 for a two-bedroom apartment with a balcony. The show apartment is open from 10am to 5pm, Thursday to Monday. Contact Knight Frank on 01892 512006.

Sudbury, Suffolk

Persimmon Homes Anglia has a host of properties at its Stour Croft development, all suited to those who choose to work part- or full-time from home.

The three-bedroom, three storey Drayton design boasts a second floor ideal for transforming into a home office away from the hubbub of family life. Priced from just £180,950, this design has three good sized bedrooms, all of which benefit from having fitted wardrobes.
The picturesque town of Sudbury, located one of mile away, offers an abundance of local amenities including shops, restaurants and pubs, as well as leisure facilities and a monthly farmers market. The development itself is situated ideally for those wanting to commute, with Colchester just a short drive away via the A13.

Contact the marketing suite on 01787 313 492, open Thursday to Sunday from 10.30am to 5.30pm and 11.30am to 5.30pm on Monday. Alternatively, visit Persimmon Homes online at persimmonhomes.com.

Surbiton, Surrey

Surbiton Plaza, in Victoria Road, comprises 48 work-live units set above exclusive shops and offices.  
Each home will have its own touch-screen nerve centre when complete. Residents will be able to use this technology to run day-to-day aspects of their lives and when working away from their home-office will be able to access the cyber-concierge remotely. 

Most of the properties, which have been built on the site of the Surbiton Sorting Office, have balconies, and the penthouses (on the fourth and fifth floors) are clad in glass to allow optimum light.  Each home has been finished to the highest specification. Interiors have been carefully considered to optimise convenience and quality, creating a stylish, low maintenance living space that is perfect for relaxing in.
The sumptuous living quarters have full-height windows, quality fittings kitchens made to the highest specification, with sleek designer units complemented by superior quality worktops and integrated appliances. V&B bathrooms are both luxurious and chic, with ceramic floor and wall tiling, steel bath and chrome fittings.

Three-bedroom duplex apartments are available and priced at £495,000. Penthouse apartments will be available soon.
For more information call 020 8390 5858 or visit surbitonplaza.com.

Teddington, Middlesex

Overlooking the Grade II listed Royal Bushy Park, Sandy Lane will be a vibrant mixed-use community that will cater for every generation. A selection of two-bedroom apartments will accompany a crèche, care home and a business quarter to allow people the luxury of working without commuting.
Featherstone Leigh are delighted to offer the opportunity to get in early on the Sandy Lane development, designed and currently under construction by Linden Homes.

There are 14 luxury apartments available in this first phase, ranging from 650sq ft up to 1346sq ft, with a spectacular penthouse on the third floor. This apartment has two balconies and two terraces, plus panoramic views of the historic Bushy Park opposite.

Buying off plan is a fantastic opportunity to secure an apartment at today’s prices and buy on completion. Due for completion in the Spring / Summer 2008, the apartments meet modern expectations, with plasma screen TV, fitted wardrobe and power shower installed in every unit.
Prices start at £399,950 for a two-bedroom apartment.

Call Featherstone Leigh on 020 8977 8118 or visit featherstone-leigh.co.uk.

Colchester, Essex

The properties at Persimmon Homes’ Bloomsbury Mews development are flexible enough to suit a variety of homeowners, from singles to couples and families and commuters to those that choose to work from home. 

The development of architect designed two-bedroom apartments and three- to four-bedroom houses is only 5 minutes walking distance of Colchester mainline railway station (journey time to Liverpool Street is 50 minutes). Colchester Golf Course is nearby and Asda Supermarket is only a short drive away.
Bloomsbury Mews is the first of four phases at New Braiswick Park in Colchester, each of which will boast its own unique identity and character, reinterpreting styles from the past.  Each phase will be themed in accordance with the environment and will feature plants, trees and even lamp posts fitting the theme.

A range of two-bedroom apartments are available from £173,995. Townhouses start from £289,950 and include an integral garage.
For further information please contact the marketing suite, open daily from 10am to 5pm, on 01206 845 903 or visit persimmonhomes.com.

Norwich, Norfolk

Appleyard’s Mill comprises a selection of one- and two-bedroom apartments, three- and four-bedroom townhouses and three-bedroom cottages.

Internally, homes are finished to the very highest of standards in a classic yet contemporary style. Fully-fitted custom built kitchens are available in a choice of styles and finishes, subject to stage of construction, and include oven and hob or, in selected homes, a range style cooker. Bathrooms are fitted with simple yet chic white sanitary ware with chrome fixtures and fittings.
Ground floors of the townhouses consist of a day room, hobbies room, utility room and a bathroom. This has inspired buyers to use the space in a number of different ways, including as a self contained apartment or as a home office.

Most homes have private outdoor space. Many boast balconies or terraces overlooking the River Wensum and large windows help bring the outside in and ensure that rooms are flooded with natural light.

Prices for current availability start from £314,995 for the three- to four-bedroom houses. Contact the marketing suite on 01603 305039 or hopkinshomes.co.uk.

Maple Cross, Hertfordshire

Available as a mid or end terrace property, The Chaulfield three storey townhouse at West Point has proven popular with a wide range of buyers. The ground floor includes an integrated garage, shower room, plus bedroom four which features French door access to the rear garden. Nestled away from the rest of the house, bedroom four is truly flexible and can be used as a playroom, garden room, an office or combined family space.

Arranged around a central area of public open space, homes at West Point are positioned in two family friendly cul-de-sacs designed to minimise passing traffic. Residents will also benefit from attractive views across the surrounding countryside, the retention of existing trees and the creation of a new cycle path.
The Chaulfield is available from £374,950. A range of two-bedroom homes are also available from £249,950.

For further information on homes available at West Point, visit the marketing suite situated on Denham Way, open Thursday to Monday from 10am to 5pm. Contact the sales team on 0845 676 0199  or visit persimmonhomes.com.

Dartford, Kent

Copthorn Homes are offering a perfect antidote to the expensive, noisy urban lifestyle with their collection of homes in Stone, near Dartford. Waterstone Park not only represents excellent value for money, but is also very well connected to all the needs of modern life. The one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom homes are just a short walk from the famous Bluewater shopping centre and just two miles from the M25. And London Bridge station is a quick journey from nearby Greenhithe station. The homes are set in a ‘garden’ environment and are designed to blend in with the vernacular of West Kent while still maintaining an individuality of style. Prices start at approximately £250,000. Find out more by calling the marketing suite on 01322 386593.

Vauxhall, London

Individuality and luxury are the two watchwords for the new Platinum Collection apartments at St George Wharf, located on the South Bank beside Vauxhall Bridge. The position of these homes is prime, the design exceptional, the specification unbelievably generous. The interior design is clear and simple, emphasising proportion, light and space. With air conditioning throughout, the environment is perfectly controlled. Views are extraordinary, as befits a home that is at the absolute top rank of London homes. Balconies and private terraces are generous and plentiful, with feature windows adding to the panoramic views. Prices start at approximately £1 million. If you’re looking for a riverside home of the absolute highest calibre, please contact David Campbell, sales and marketing director, on 020 7471 4444.

Bexley, Kent

Ruxley Meadow is a collection of new homes within Edenwood, Laing Homes’ flagship development of traditional village style homes in Old Bexley Lane, Bexley, Kent. And the rapid sales there have led to the early release of Bourne Meadow, the next phase of homes. Set within 38 acres of open space, the range of house styles available includes three-bedroom homes from £250,000 and four-bedroom homes from £335,000, including town houses. All homes have individual features and high specification, including double glazing and a full range of Ariston appliances in the kitchens. Contact the sales advisors on 01322 528716.

Tonbridge, Kent

Fairclough Homes has five apartments remaining of the 18 two-bedroom apartments at The Lyons. The development is located on East Street, within a conservation area minutes from the town centre. The layout of each apartment has been individually designed; some have balconies or patios. Internal specification is superb throughout, with stylish contemporary kitchens offering a wide range of integrated appliances. The largest comprises two double bedrooms, a large living room and a separate kitchen/breakfast room. Each apartment has a parking space within the courtyard – and there is additional parking for visitors within the development.. Remaining apartments start at £187,995. Contact selling agents Bracketts on 01732 350503.

Woolwich, London

With the first two phases sold out at Berkeley Homes’ flagship Royal Arsenal development, the third consists of the former Grand Store building, originally built in 1813, and the former Laboratory building, built in 1864, providing 34 refurbished two- and three-bedroom apartments, ranging from 850 sq ft to 2,000 sq ft. Prices start at £340,000. Call 020 8331 7272.

High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire

At Barratt’s The Coppetts development, only seven of the cottage-style homes remain. The Coppetts gives easy access to the M25, the M40 and High Wycombe station, with a journey time of just 44 minutes to Marylebone station. Prices for the remaining homes start at £202,995 for a three-bedroom house. Call 01494 449639.

Bracknell, Berkshire

At Sovereign Fields, the brand new two-bedroom Petworth design is being introduced. With versatile space, it works equally well for a couple or for two sharers. The selection of homes, ranging from two to six bedrooms, enjoys a superb location within easy reach of Bracknell town centre. Prices start at £189,950 for the Petworth design. Call 01344 459340.
 
Colchester, Essex

Barratt plays a key role in the redevelopment of Colchester, Britain’s oldest recorded town, with two new developments. The Ridings and Beechwood Gardens are both close to High Woods Country Park, with its wonderful lakes, woods and parkland. Both offer a range of family homes and apartments near excellent local schools and amenities. Prices at The Ridings start at £145,000 for two-bedroom apartments; At Beechwood Gardens, four-bedroom town houses start at £210,000. Call 01206 852738.

East London is on the way up. Amanda Shiel takes a look at some of the finest developments in this area.

Whitechapel

Located on Plumbers Row, VoguE1 comprises 58 stunning one- and two-bedroom apartments and two- and three-bedroom duplex penthouses.

The focal point of the development is the red and blue brick clad façade which wraps around the corner of Plumbers Row using defined recesses and setbacks to create a unique and contemporary look. The combination of burnished steel with brick, wood and glass gives the development visual and textural diversity. Balconies with framed mesh panels also add depth and variety to the front of the building.
Internally, each apartment is fitted with a designer Urban Myth kitchen and Siemens appliances which include a stainless steel electric oven, microwave, gas hob and chimney hood, integrated fridge freezer, washer/dryer and dishwasher. The apartments also benefit from state-of-the-art under floor gas fired central heating, a video entryphone and lift access to all floors. Many of the spacious and bright apartments offer elegant views over central London. A number of the penthouse apartments also have spectacular views of the Gherkin and across the Square Mile.

VoguE1 is located close to the famous Spitalfields market, buzzing Brick Lane and the Square Mile, which ensures that residents benefit from the shopping, nightlife and history of this part of the capital. The nearest stations are Whitechapel and Aldgate East, which are both under half a mile from the development. The development is only five miles from London City Airport and under three miles from Canary Wharf.

Prices start at £349,950 for a one-bedroom apartment and £435,000 for a two-bedroom apartment. First occupations are expected in spring 2008. Contact Higgins Homes on 020 8498 6059 or visit higginshomes.co.uk.

Clapton

Altius is a stylish development of spacious one- and two-bedroom apartments on Mount Pleasant Hill. Each home is designed with comfort, value for money and high standards firmly in mind.  Many of the properties offer en-suite facilities and generous balconies.
Clapton is a vibrant community that combines all the best of cultural diversity with a strong sense of neighbourhood. The area is one of those already feeling the benefits of the Hackney Unitary Development Plan, which aims to raise the quality of life in the area and create a more pleasant environment.
Altius offers an extremely good location with major road links to the A10, A13 and M25 within easy reach. Clapton train station is only a few minutes walk away with services into Liverpool Street (ten minutes) and out to Chingford and Hertford. Homerton, to the south of the development, is on the Silverlink Metro line from Richmond to North Woolwich. Altius also be within walking distance of the Olympic village.
The marketing suite is open Monday to Friday between 10am and 6pm. For more details call 0845 688 1315 or visit georgewimpey.co.uk.

Hackney

Queensbridge Quarter, which is being built as part of Hackney’s Holly Street regeneration programme, will feature 27 two- and three-bedroom houses, 83 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments (including two penthouses) and one studio apartment for sale. The development will also include 40 affordable housing apartments.
This socially seamless community is expected to draw a healthy mix of families, couples and also single people living alone. It is expected that the apartments will be snapped up by young professionals as Hackney evolves into an ‘urban cool’ and cosmopolitan place to live.

The changing face of Hackney has much to offer young buyers, thanks to the wider regeneration of the borough. Hackney’s revitalised High Street offers an array of shops, restaurants and bars, allowing young residents to enjoy London living in a more affordable setting than some other areas in the capital. Other draws for this market include the introduction of a tube station in Hackney by 2010, which will link to south London.
Prices for apartments at Queensbridge Quarter start at £265,000. For more information contact Currells on 020 7241 4111.

South Woodford

Telford Homes is preparing to launch the central phase at its landmark development Queen Mary’s Gate in South Woodford.  
Harrison Court offers just eight new two-bedroom apartments set across four floors – a boutique sized collection within the new community. Imperial House, by contrast, offers a much wider selection of one- and two-bedroom apartments rising between five and seven storeys. All apartments have the option of underground parking and can share the beautifully landscaped water gardens, which form a prominent feature in the development.  
The development is near South Woodford tube station, with direct connections on the Central Line to Stratford in just ten minutes or Liverpool Street in only 20 minutes. Queen Mary’s Gate is also a short drive from the M11 and very near the A406 North Circular, providing quick road links into and around London. 

Prices at Harrison Court and Imperial Heights will be available from around 7 September.  A launch event of Harrison Court and Imperial Heights will take place from 10.30am to 6pm on Saturday 15 September at the Queen Mary’s Gate sales centre on the High Road in South Woodford. Call 020 8506 1955 or visit telfordhomes.plc.uk.

Spotlight on South Woodford

South Woodford is ideally located. Situated in leafy north east London, it offers a less hectic lifestyle to some city areas. Fast transport links to the Docklands and the City add to the attraction. South Woodford may be in zone 4, but in 20 minutes the Central Line train will take you to Liverpool Street. Canary Wharf is just 35 minutes away via Stratford. For those wishing to escape the confines of London, the M11 is nearby.
Shoppers are well catered for. George Lane offers a vast range of amenities including good supermarkets, smaller independent shops, boutiques and banks. The area also boasts a fine selection of restaurants and pubs.
South Woodford is seen as up-and-coming, with new developments nestling amongst rows of Victorian and Edwardian terraces. This, coupled with a low crime rate and fast transport links, makes this part of London attractive to everyone from the older generation to families and City workers.  

Bow

Caspian Wharf consists of 82 studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments. This vibrant waterside development offers contemporary individually designed apartments that strike an excellent balance between function and comfort. The properties are situated in a brick six-storey building that features extensive glazing, glass and steel balconies and large terraces with views towards the canal and Canary Wharf.
Residents will enjoy the use of a communal terrace on the fourth floor as well as the landscaped podium on the first floor, which will provide cover for the limited car parking spaces that are available on selected plot.
The development is within easy reach of Bromley-by-Bow underground station on the Hammersmith & City and District lines while Devons Road DLR station is also close by. A new DLR station, Langdon Park, is also within easy reach.
The A11, A12, A13 and M11 offer road links to Greater London and the North. The proposed Olympic Village at Stratford is situated close by offering a lasting legacy on the doorstep.
Prices start at £215,000 for a studio apartment. Marketing suite is open 10am to 6pm weekdays (until 8pm on Tuesdays) and from 10am to 5pm on weekends. Call 0844 800 1152 or visit berkeleyhomes.co.uk.

Woolwich

The Armouries is a collection of 455 studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom new build apartments set over six floors and associated commercial space that will include cafes, bars and restaurants. The apartments are surrounded by the Carriage Works – an existing listed building and clock tower that Berkeley Homes is painstakingly restoring and refurbishing to its former working glory.
Residents can enjoy the lagoon at the heart of the building, while vehicles can be parked in the secure underground car park. The Armouries even has its own on-site combined heat and power (CHP) plant.
Woolwich Arsenal train station is a five-minute walk from the development and offers regular services to London Bridge, Waterloo East, Charing Cross and Cannon Street. Alternatively, the extended Thames Clipper’s Fast Ferry Service gives easy access to Canary Wharf, Embankment and Westminster. The DLR service is also being extended to Woolwich and will open in early 2009.
Prices start from £250,000 for a one-bedroom apartment and rise to £390,000 for a three-bedroom apartment. Sales and marketing suite open daily from 10am until 6pm. Call 020 8331 7130 or visit  royal-arsenal.co.uk.

Canary Wharf

Young Group has released an initial four floors within the East Tower, (11th, 19th, 26th and 34th), offering purchasers a wide choice of suites, one- and two-bedroom apartments, priced from £355,000. The 45 storey Landmark East Tower in Canary Wharf will rise to 140 metres, making it one of Europe’s tallest residential buildings.

Situated adjacent to the West Tower, apartments in The Landmark East Tower will be finished to an equally high standard with floor to ceiling glass, integrated kitchens, quality appliances, marble bathrooms, comfort cooling and wooden floors. The two towers also share equally generous layouts.
Due for completion at the end of 2010, it is the aspect of the stunning East Tower at The Landmark which differentiates it, with a large proportion of one-bedroom apartments benefiting from east/west orientation and river or Canary Wharf/dock views.

The Landmark is situated only four minutes walk from Canary Wharf’s financial centre. For more information visit thelandmarke14.com.

Johnny Turner looks at great apartments for new buyers.

First-time buyer Kathryn Hilliard and her partner Hax Paul, recently purchased a 2 bedroomed, luxury appartment in Quinta Square at Kennet Island, the St James development in Reading Southside.  
"We particularly drawn to Kennet Island because it has been designed as a village, with the central piazza with cafes etc, open spaces and a great mix of accommodation, rather than just another housing development.  Plans for developing the surrounding area in terms of transport, shops, schools etc are also looking very promising - we believe it will be a great place to live and a good investment too.
"The appartment is good value for money as it gives us very spacious accommodation (two double bedrooms and two bathrooms) and a very high specification in terms of fixtures and fittings. 
STOP PRESS: ON THURSDAY 20 SEPTEMBER - KENNET ISLAND IS HOLDING A 'SHARERS' EVENING FROM 5PM - 8PM A fun evening to promote the appeal of the new apartments to couples/family/friends/colleagues looking to buy together.
Backgroud info:

TWO BEDROOM APARTMENTS AT KENNET ISLAND EXCEED EXPECTATIONS

Kennet Island, Reading’s new urban village, is a stunning new St James development on Reading Southside, conveniently located close to the M4 and minutes from the city centre.

Since the first phase of houses launched last summer ’06, demand for homes at Kennet Island has been overwhelming.   Feedback from local housing experts confirm that, to date, properties at Kennet Island have sold twice as fast as any other development in the region.

The development offers a mix of one/two bed apartments and two/three/four bed houses.  

Two bedroom apartments are currently available in Quinta Square, (behind the central piazza community space) priced from £225,000.  The stylish apartments offer spacious accommodation (nearly 780 sq ft) as well as a luxurious specification included within the asking price (i.e. Roca sanitaryware, Alno kitchens, Porcelanosa tiling to kitchens and bathrooms, carpet throughout, downlighters and integrated appliances). With two double bedrooms and two bathrooms as well as a larger than average living area, these present a great opportunity for those buyers wishing to rent out their spare room or share the mortgage.  

Southside is the vision for a new, exciting residential and commercial urban quarter of Reading.  Covering over 100 acres and unifying both sides of the A33, it will provide c.1,150 new homes and over 1,000 000 sq foot of commercial space linked by an iconic bridge to create a fitting entrance to a city in the making.  The council is also planning major road and transport improvements including a new mass rapid transit system (MRT), bus and cycle routes and a station at Green Park, all of which will create a truly connected, accessible community.

For further information please phone:  0845 603 4043  or visit  www.kennetisland.co.uk

FAB FOUR LAUNCH IN BOLTON

Following on from its recent sales success, conversion specialist PJ Livesey is giving the market what it wants and launching four more show apartments at its flagship Manchester development, The Cottonworks in Bolton.
The one and two-bedroom, spacious apartments are expected to uphold the design trend demonstrated so far at this elegant development and provide a show of cutting edge interior design and high style.
Situated on the second floor, these apartments will showcase the properties on this level which have not yet been viewed. Visitors who have already seen the existing show apartments on the ground and first floors are expected to make-up a large proportion of the turn out on the last bank holiday weekend in August as they return for the latest reveal.
 
PJ Livesey has put together some offers which will be exclusive to those reserving at the launch weekend. They include complimentary upgrades on kitchen and bathroom suites, paid stamp duty and £1,000 cash back and free fitted flooring throughout.
 
The Cottonworks has been one of the company’s most successful mill developments since the release of its first phase earlier this year. The 1926 Grade II listed building – the last mill to be built in the area - was designed and built for Sir John Holden by Bradshaw, Gas and Hope and has retained a number of distinctive architectural features.
 
PJ Livesey has been responsible for the restoration and development of some of the UK’s most prestigious addresses over the last 30 years and retains a reputation for a passionate and exacting approach to the refurbishment of all its developments. The interiors have become as great a talking point as the buildings themselves in recent years with visitor rates rising dramatically across all developments from the point of show home launch.
 
Sales manager, Colette Gannon comments: ‘Show homes always generate increased interest. We have had a record number of visitors to The Cottonworks in the last couple of months as word of mouth regarding our ground- and first-floor apartments has spread and we’re expecting a large turnout for the launch weekend given the overall popularity of the development.’
 
Prices for one-bedroom apartments at The Cottonworks currently start at £114,950, increasing to just £149,950 for a two-bed. For further information on The Cottonworks, please call 01204 305012 (open daily from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm) or 0800 7830259 (freephone).

It’s not often that a heavy rain shower in England is welcomed, but it was by newlyweds Jason and Amanda Watts, because it led to them buying their first home!
Jason and Amanda had recently moved to the UK from South Africa, where Jason was born, and were renting a flat in Epping; they had no immediate plans to buy their own home, until the weather intervened!
It was during a visit to Amanda’s father, who lives in nearby Southend-on-Sea, that the ‘lucky’ shower occurred. As Jason and Amanda walked through Rochford seeking shelter from the rain, they came across Barratt’s popular development, The Square, and went in to have a look. ‘It was brilliant timing,’ says Jason, ‘We instantly loved the look of The Square, it’s really unique. We were fed up with renting, so we enquired about buying a home and couldn’t believe how much help Barratt gives first-time buyers!’
In fact Jason and Amanda were so impressed that they returned the following weekend to reserve a two-bedroom apartment. ‘The sales team at Barratt were great,’ comments Jason. ‘Barratt has paid our deposit and included the carpets within the price; they even helped us find a mortgage with a very good rate.’
Located next to the market square in the centre of Rochford, The Square is a delightful development of around 115 sophisticated one and two-bedroom apartments some within a colourful horseshoe-shaped building arranged around a courtyard and others above a new Somerfields supermarket.
Jason and Amanda love their new home. Like all the apartments at The Square, it is bright and modern with a roomy open-plan living/dining/kitchen area, smart fitted kitchen with plenty of appliances and classy white bathroom. The main bedroom comes with fitted wardrobes and the second bedroom is a good size for guests. ‘There’s plenty of space and the rooms are deceptively large,’ says Amanda, ‘we particularly like the fact that it’s so quiet around here at night.’
The Square is in the perfect position for easy living. Being near the centre of town means that
Jason and Amanda are close to all the amenities, and when the Somerfields supermarket at The Square opens this summer, shopping will literally be on the doorstep. ‘I can’t wait, it’ll be so convenient!’ says Amanda.

Rochford is a historic market town with a lively social scene and lovely surroundings. ‘There are great pubs with live music,’ says Jason, ‘and we love the surrounding area and going for walks around the estuary.’
The station is just a few minutes’ walk away from the Square, which is a great advantage. Amanda commutes into London every day for her work as an oncology nurse in Harley Street and although Jason works from home as a landscape interior designer, he too often travels into London for meetings. ‘The journey into central London work is much shorter than it was from Epping,’ comments Amanda. ‘It only takes approximately 52 minutes from Rochford to Liverpool Street.’
One coincidence is the fact that Amanda’s step-grandfatherworked on the building site of The Square; he recognises the potential of the area, particularly with the expansion of nearby Southend Airport, which is expected to include a new terminal building and hotel, as well as new routes to European capitals in time for the 2012 London Olympics. ‘We’ll have to invest in more properties round here,’ observes Jason, ‘It’s obviously an up and coming area!’
Homes at The Square are selling very swiftly; all the homes in the first phase have been sold and over half the apartments above the supermarket have already been reserved. Prices start at £149,995 for a one-bedroom apartment and from £188,995 for a two-bedroom apartment. Incentives are available for first-time buyers.
For further information, and to view the superb new show apartment, please contact the Marketing Suite on 01702 545299, open every day 10am to 6pm (except 2pm to 6pm on Mondays). Alternatively, visit the website on www.barratthomes.co.uk. 

Jason and Amanda Watts, first-time buyers at The Square, Barratt’s new development of one and two-bedroom apartments in the heart of Rochford. Prices start at £149,995 for a one-bedroom apartment. Contact Barratt on 01702 545299.

First Time Buyer Couple Find Dream Home and Investment Potential in Gosport

The £84 million ‘Renaissance of Portsmouth Harbour’ is one of only twelve landmark projects across the UK to receive assistance from The Millennium Commission. Portsmouth Harbour is fast becoming Britain’s favourite waterside destination thanks to its superb shopping facilities at Gunwharf Quays, the striking Spinnaker tower and ferry access to a number of European destinations. However, approximately two miles across Portsmouth Harbour, is the silent property hotspot of Gosport, Hampshire. This hidden gem has also been on the receiving end of government funding, with a huge financial facelift, yet unlike Portsmouth where in some areas, property prices have dramatically increased, in Gosport, property is still very affordable.

Savvy first time buyers, Heather Zawada and Richard Parker, both from Hayling Island, Hampshire, heard about the regeneration of Gosport and saw the areas investment potential. When they visited Priddy’s Hard, Crest Nicholson’s development in Gosport, they found their ideal first home and snapped up a one bedroom apartment at the waterside development.
Heather, 22, comments: ‘The location of Priddy’s Hard was what appealed, it is so close to the water and also offers access to Portsmouth by ferry, which takes less than five minutes. We then found out about the regeneration taking place and this made us determined to buy. An Arts and Crafts Centre is due to open, Gosport High Street is being refurbished, Royal Clarence Marina is being built and a potential cinema is in the pipeline.
‘The area appears to be going from strength to strength and Richard and I see ourselves living here for quite sometime. We feel we have bought at the right time, thanks to the regeneration, we both expect property prices to rise.

 ’Priddy’s Hard was exactly what we wanted, the amount of space in the apartment was great and I particularly liked all the cosmetic details such as the finish in the kitchens and the sanitaryware in the bathrooms. We moved into our new home last month, having completed within two months. Crest Nicholson offered us a discount and free carpets which were the icing on the cake.
 ’I work for Hampshire Council and the commute to work has become that much easier for me. I am also a part time model so I regularly travel round the country, the local train service is great and I can get into London in 90 minutes from Portsmouth Harbour train station.’
The architecture of Priddy’s Hard has been designed to blend in with the semi military vernacular of the surrounding building, with sleek red brick buildings that feature added detail from pilasters and corbels.  
The contemporary apartments offer open plan living areas and designer kitchens that are fitted with a selection of integrated appliances and timber effect style doors. Many of the properties benefit from large French doors that offer spectacular sea views. Every property at Priddy’s Hard offers private allocated parking.

Priddy’s Hard waterside setting offers superb transport links. The development is linked to Gosport’s new waterfront area by the Millennium Footbridge and to Portsmouth via the nearby ferry service and near Gunwharf Quays. Portsmouth Harbour offers direct trains into London Waterloo which take approximately 90 minutes.
Prices for one bedroom apartments start from £127,950 and two bedroom apartments start from £144,950. However with 90 per cent now reserved, buyers will have to move fast! For more information on Priddy’s Hard contact Crest Nicholson (South) Ltd on telephone: 0870 751 0490 or visit: www.crestnicholson.com

Friern Barnet

Designed by multi award winning architects the landmark Arc development is catching the eye of many purchasers. With the choice of 33 one, two or three bedroom apartments to choose from including 4 prestigious penthouses, over 40 per cent of these impressive homes have already gone. The high profile Arc development in Friern Barnet is perfectly situated within a few minutes walk of New Southgate and Arnos Grove stations and its surrounding amenities whilst offering purchasers their own personal view overlooking beautifully landscaped gardens.
Passers-by could not help but notice a new landmark has come to N11. The Arc development of 33 modern, high quality one, two and three bedroom apartments offering generous accommodation combined with a fresh contemporary style is
attracting more than just admiring glances. Since its recent launch more 40 per cent of the occupancy has been snapped up. The location to health and entertainment facilities only goes to enhance the opportunity of owning one of these modern apartments. Each apartment not only provides allocated parking, contemporary designed kitchen and bathroom but offers an individual terrace or balcony view of landscaped gardens inspiring that fresh al fresco morning breakfast or evening meal.
The price to indulge your senses starts from as low as £260,000 for a one bed apartment but they are selling fast. Don’t miss out on a lifestyle changing opportunity. To arrange a viewing call The marketing Suite on 02083615756, Thursday to Monday between 10.00am and 5.00pm. At other times call Bairstow Eves on 020 8446 5871.

First Time Buyer Finds Perfect Pad at The Atrium                               

Six in ten people choose to purchase their first independent home within a 20 mile radius of their parental homes. Many young first time buyers don’t want to flee too far from the nest as they enjoy spending time with their families and genuinely value the practical support and advice that they offer.*
First time buyer, Victoria Milnes, 25, a Senior Account Executive from West End in Woking, Surrey, wanted her first home to be a contemporary, stylish pad close to her parents, but where she could also enjoy her new found independence. Just four and a half miles from her family home, The Atrium, Crest Nicholson Regeneration’s development in Camberley, offered just that.

Victoria comments: ‘I am going to be living on my own for the first time, so I wanted to find an area that was familiar and a property where I would feel safe. I know Camberley well and the cinema and restaurants at The Atrium mean that there will always be people around until late at night. My worst nightmare would be moving in to a property that needed time and money spent getting it into a decent state, as my apartment will be brand new, I don’t need to worry. However, I get to add my own personal touch as Crest Nicholson is allowing me to select my own fixtures and fittings.
‘I never thought my first place would be so perfect. It’s ironic because although I knew that The Atrium was kick starting the regeneration of Camberley, I wasn’t actually aware of the residential side of the development. It was only when l drove past one day that I noticed that apartments were also being built. Even in their part completed state, I knew this was where I wanted to live. I absolutely love my new pad and I am counting down the days to when I can move in.’

Helen Boniface, Sales and Marketing Manager, Crest Nicholson Regeneration Ltd, comments: ‘The Atrium is bringing a new style of living to Camberley and attracting young professionals like Victoria, who want a low maintenance, stylish, modern home with shops, bars and restaurants on their doorstep. We have already started to see the impact, with many well known High Street chains arriving in the town.’
The Atrium comprises a mix of one and two bedroom apartments and penthouses. Many of the apartments feature balconies or terraces and all have an allocated parking space. The spectacular architectural detailing of the whole development incorporates contemporary elevations and sweeping curved lines.

The ultimate in modern, stylish living, interiors boast designer kitchens with sleek stainless steel appliances and integrated dishwashers and fridge / freezers. Wood laminate flooring in the kitchens follows through into the living rooms which have under floor heating, as do the fully carpeted bedrooms. Bathrooms feature ceramic floor tiling, heated chrome towel rails and contemporary fittings.
Ideally located for commuters, The Atrium is less than half a mile from Camberley train station, which offers services to London Waterloo in just over 75 minutes. Train journeys to central London from nearby Farnborough station take as little as 35 minutes.**

In addition to the new homes, The Atrium comprises 14 new retail outlets, a multi-screen Vue cinema, a 22-lane bowling complex and numerous restaurants and cafes including Café Rouge, Frankie & Bennys and Starbucks, supported by a new multi-storey car park with space for a total of 900 vehicles.
Prices start from £240,000 for a two bedroom apartment. More one bedroom apartments are due to be released later in the development.
For further enquiries contact the sales team on telephone 0870 759 0327 or visit the website www.crestnicholson.com

St Johns has Formula for Investment Success

Formula Palmer Audi (FPA) has proved itself over the last nine years to be one of the premier training grounds for aspiring Formula 1 drivers. The latest rising young star of FPA, Tim Bridgman, is set to challenge the likes of Lewis Hamilton. Tim, 22, has fought off competition from high calibre drivers such as ex-Formula 1 driver Martin Brundel’s son to stay at the top of the racing table, however, he insists that he is keeping his feet on the ground and his recent venture onto the property ladder is just the first step in his five year plan to success.

Tim and his girlfriend Lilly, 21, were able to purchase their stunning two bedroom duplex apartment at St Johns, Higgins Homes’ development in the picturesque village of Stansted Mountfitchet, Essex, through hard work and clever investment. Tim comments: ‘We have always really loved Stansted Mountfitchet and after I came back from a year driving in America, we decided to set our five year plan in motion and get on the property ladder. Due to some lucrative stock market investments and a lot of hard work we had enough for a deposit. When we saw Higgins Homes’ development St Johns, we were not expecting to be bale to afford anything let alone the largest duplex apartment!

‘Lilly is the PA to Girls Aloud, so both of us travel a great deal. St Johns is the perfect place for us because it is low maintenance and has underground parking. The duplex is very large and both bedrooms are a good size, which is important to us as we may decide to let the property in the future. My estate agent friends informed me that Higgins Homes has a fantastic reputation, so we had no reservations about the quality of the craftsmanship or the materials. I am confident that our new home is a fantastic investment and it will hopefully set us well on our way to our goal of living in our dream mansion in five years time.’

St Johns comprises 40 one and two bedroom apartments and two bedroom duplexes of varying styles and sizes. The development itself has been sensitively designed to ensure that, from the road, the traditional pitched roof and brick work is in keeping with the architecture in this historic village. ‘The Bailey’ and ‘The Motte’ buildings, not seen from the road, use cedar cladding and curtain wall glazing to provide an interesting variety of classic and modern materials. Despite the contrasting architecture, the local buff Drayton Cream brick work and slate style roof tiles ensure that the entire development blends harmoniously.

The use of glass allows for the open-plan interiors to be flooded with light, and some apartments also benefit from balconies or patios bringing the outside in. Each kitchen is fitted with designer Urban Myth kitchens and Smeg appliances which include a stainless steel electric oven and gas hob, integrated fridge/freezer and washer/dryer. The fresh, crisp bathrooms incorporate contemporary sanitaryware from Ideal Standard with sleek chrome fittings. The development also has electric gates, underground parking and lift access in two of the buildings.

Two show apartments at St Johns are open daily between 10am and 5pm. Prices start from £179,995 for a one bedroom apartment and £229,950 for a two bedroom, two bathroom apartment.  Both prices include the cost of an underground parking space and are less 5 per cent assisted deposit. For sales enquires please contact Higgins Homes on telephone: 01279 813 986 or visit www.higginshomes.co.uk.

BERKELEY HOMES LAUNCHES THE ARMOURIES AT ROYAL ARSENAL

Berkeley Homes (East Thames) Ltd is delighted to announce the launch of The Armouries, the next exciting phase at its hugely successful Royal Arsenal development in Woolwich, SE18.

The Armouries is a collection of 455 studios, one, two and three-bedroom new build apartments located within a six-storey building, which is surrounded by an existing listed building and clock tower. Target Living, the interior architecture and design practice founded in 2002 by Designer Tara Bernerd and Architect Thomas Griem; has worked on the interior architecture and design specification on behalf of Berkeley Homes, to include all units and common parts.

Berkeley Homes is painstakingly restoring and refurbishing the Carriage Works and the face of the clock tower to ensure it is returned it to its former working glory. When complete it will offer over 10,000 square foot of commercial and community space that will include cafes, bars and restaurants.

Royal Arsenal is one of the largest and most exciting regeneration projects in London. The 76-acre military equipment and munitions manufacturing site is being transformed into a combination of refurbished and new-build residential and commercial space, creating a sustainable new community on the banks of the River Thames.

It is conveniently located for easy access into the city. Woolwich Arsenal train station is a five-minute walk from the development and offers regular services to London Bridge, Waterloo East, Charing Cross and Cannon Street. Alternatively, the extended Thames Clipper’s fast ferry service also offers easy access to Canary Wharf, Embankment and Westminster on board their high-speed boat service. The DLR service is also being extended to Woolwich and will open in 2009.

The first release of apartments at The Armouries comprises 70 one, two and three-bedroom apartments with prices expected to start from £250,000. All of the apartments benefit from contemporary interiors offering open-plan living. White gloss handleless kitchens come complete with black laminate worktops and stainless steel Bosch appliances. Bathrooms feature white sanitaryware and vinyl floor covering.

Purchasers will have the opportunity to upgrade the specification in their property choosing from a range of kitchens, floorings and fixtures and fittings. All of the apartments boast balconies that run the full width of the property and are accessed via the bedrooms and living areas. Residents will also benefit from a lagoon with plants and trees at the heart of the building and secure underground parking.

The development also offers purchasers’ access to Wellington Park and a residents’ only gym set in the renovated Shell Foundry Gatehouse, providing a historic setting for a workout and the perfect antidote to the characterless chain of gyms that can be found in the Capital.

Justin Tibaldi, Managing Director at Berkeley Homes (East Thames Ltd) commented: ‘The Armouries blends modern, contemporary new-build homes with stunning existing architecture to create an exciting community. Residents will be able to relax in the landscaped areas and reveal in their proximity to the river.’

Prices at The Armouries start from £250,000 for a one-bedroom apartment and the rise to £310,000 for a three-bedroom apartment. Building work has already commenced on site and the first completions are expected in Spring 2009. Two new show apartments, which have been designed by Jo Love, Interior Design and Product Manager for Berkeley Homes, and Tara Bernerd of Target Living, are now open.

For further information about The Armouries or to arrange a viewing of the new show apartments, contact the Sales and Marketing suite – open daily from 10.00am until 6.00pm – telephoning 020 8317 9891 or email royalarsenal@berkeleyhomes.co.uk. For more information about Royal Arsenal please visit www.royal-arsenal.co.uk or alternatively text Royal Arsenal to 60030 (normal rate applies).

Almost fifty per cent of the apartments available at Blue, a new development in Islington, London, N1, have been reserved off-plan. Thirteen properties were snapped up when fifteen people came to the launch at the Chesterton New Homes office on Upper Street, Islington. Chesterton is delighted with the huge success of Blue which was targeted at registered applicants only as the development has not yet been advertised.

Most of the thirteen reservations taken were for one-bedroom apartments, snapped up by first-time buyers who were, on average, under 30 years old.

Conrad Mazen, Chesterton New Homes Director, comments: ‘We are delighted at how successful Blue has been with such a large number of reservations taken during what is normally a quiet holiday period. We were pleased with the number of visitors who came along last Thursday demonstrating the strength of demand in this market for a quality development in an extremely popular location.’

Blue is a contemporary and stylish development of just twenty-eight superb quality one and two-bedroom apartments situated in Islington - designed by Grafik Architecture and developed by Inspace - one of the most exciting, influential and trendsetting areas of the capital today.

As well as brand-new interiors with modern designs, purchasers at Blue will be able to enjoy a communal landscaped garden area and a 12 months-free car club membership which is being provided for each apartment as there is no off-street parking.

The remaining 12 one-bedroom (460 sq ft) apartments are available from £270,000 leasehold, and the remaining 3 two-bedroom (650 sq ft) apartments are available from £310,000 leasehold.

‘Uber’ apartments in London’s ‘Best Urban Village’

Walthamstow, voted Time Out’s ‘best urban village’*, is now attracting young professional residents with its fresh and stylish new image. A £56 million regeneration project is dramatically changing the London town and there is more change to come. Over the last seven years the town’s transport system has been transformed, the high street has had a face lift and still more gentrification schemes are taking place in the town centre: street scenes are improving because of new developments, such as Higgins Homes’ apartment complex, ‘Uber’, which is providing stunning homes for residents.
 
Uber’s contemporary architecture and design reflects the town’s regenerated profile and because of its central location, residents are able to take advantage of both the world’s longest street market and new designer shopping centre.

Jeremy Marcus, Sales and Marketing Director, Higgins Homes, comments: ‘The location of this development is superb and with the surrounding area constantly improving, Uber is a great place to invest in. Purchasers are able to take advantage of the wealth of shops, bars and restaurants in the immediate vicinity whilst also enjoying a direct tube link into central London. We have had a great deal of interest in this development before the launch which it is not surprising as there no other developments in Walthamstow or surrounding area which are as central and stylish as Uber.’

Uber comprises 100 studios and one and two bedroom apartments on Erskine Road. The building has a cascading and ascending flat roof, sculpted with aluminium panels to give a dramatic profile. The development incorporates a play area and a secret garden, so residents can read a book and enjoy the sunshine without being overlooked.

Most apartments enjoy glass panelled balconies providing buyers with outside space and there is also a video entry system in each flat. 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.  

Walthamstow provides residents with a wealth of amenities ranging from boutique market stalls to designer clothes shops in The Mall, Selborne Walk.  St James Street train station near the high street has regular direct trains to London Liverpool Street which take approximately 16 minutes. Walthamstow Central underground station is on the Victoria line and tubes take approximately 23 minutes to Oxford Circus.

Prices are set to be released mid-August. First completions are expected in spring 2008.  For further information or to request a brochure, contact Higgins Homes on telephone: 020 8508 6000 or visit: www.higginshomes.co.uk

Fantastic sales success at the launch of Barratt’s Watercolour ‘village’ in Redhill!

The sun certainly shone on the launch of Barratt@Watercolour, a stunning new development on the outskirts of Redhill where four off-plan sales were achieved within a couple of hours!

More than 100 visitors enjoyed champagne and canapés in one of the landscaped areas at the development which, when complete, will provide beautiful green, open spaces, two lagoons, canal reed beds and a network of footpaths and cycleways. In fact, as many visitors pointed out, Barratt@Watercolour will offer a combination of ‘Norfolk-countryside’ and ‘Redhill-commutability!’  There is little doubt that in the near future, the spectacular landscaping will attract the attention of local watercolour artists; some of whom exhibited their work during the launch weekend.

Even though there were plenty of paintings to look at, most of the visitors were soon engrossed in the plans for the 97 apartments and houses. With properties ranging from one and two-bedroom apartments to two, three, four, five and even six-bedroom houses, there’s certainly plenty to choose from. Every home, however, will feature a high specification; many will have terraces and balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows and conservatories that enhance the sense of space and flood the rooms with light.

Barratt@Watercolour is more than just a residential development though; with a shop, community hall, doctor’s surgery, health and fitness centre, children’s nursery and vet’s practice, it will be a real village community. Residents will be able to use the dedicated bus service to travel into Redhill, approximately two miles away, which will save using the car for short trips into town.  Redhill is home to two shopping centres and to the Donyngs Leisure Centre, which has a pool, sports hall, squash courts and fitness centre.
The first homes being released for sale at Barratt@Watercolour are three bedroom houses starting from £294,995 and four-bedroom houses from £465,995. At this early stage, buyers have the opportunity to personalise the interior of their home.
For more information on Barratt@Watercolour, please contact the Barratt sales team on 01737 644693. Information on all Barratt developments can also be found at barratthomes.co.uk.

TWO BEDROOM APPARTMENTS AT KENNET ISLAND EXCEED EXPECTATIONS

Kennet Island, Reading’s new urban village, is a stylish new St James development on Reading Southside, conveniently located close to the M4 and minutes from the city centre.

Since the first phase of houses launched last summer ’06, demand for homes at Kennet Island has been overwhelming.  Feedback from local housing experts confirm that, to date, properties at Kennet Island have sold twice as fast as any other development in the region.

The development offers a mix of one/two bed apartments and two/three/four bed houses.

Two bedroom apartments are currently available in Wave 2, (behind the central piazza community space) priced from £225,000. The stylish apartments offer spacious accommodation (nearly 780 sq ft) as well as a luxurious specification included within the asking price (i.e. Roca sanitaryware, Alno kitchens, Porcelanosa tiling to kitchens and bathrooms, carpet throughout, downlighters and integrated appliances). With two double bedrooms and two bathrooms as well as a larger than average living area, these present a great opportunity for those buyers wishing to rent out their spare room or share the mortgage.

Southside is the vision for a new, exciting residential and commercial urban quarter of Reading. Covering over 100 acres and unifying both sides of the A33, it will provide c.1,150 new homes and over 1,000 000 sq foot of commercial space linked by an iconic bridge to create a fitting entrance to a city in the making. The council is also planning major road and transport improvements including a new mass rapid transit system (MRT), bus and cycle routes and a station at Green Park, all of which will create a truly connected, accessible community.

For further information please phone: 0845 603 4043 or visit www.kennetisland.co.uk