New Homes - May, 2008

The green agenda has taken centre-stage in the housebuilding industry. Johnny Turner looks at what that means for today’s buyer

The green agenda has found its way into many areas of our lives, but the way we build and run our homes is very high on the list of fast-changing practices. Building methods and energy-saving spec are not only on the government’s agenda, but buyers, too, are becoming more and more picky about green considerations.
Starting in Brighton, a joint venture between Crest Nicholson and BioRegional Quintain Limited will yield what is being called the UK’s most environmentally advanced apartments. One Brighton will comprise 172 studio, one- and two-bedroom eco-apartments along with a range of on-site facilities that follow the ten ‘guiding principles’ of the environmentally sustainable ‘One Planet Living’ concept.
Located on New England Street, within the Brighton’s exciting New England Quarter, One Brighton combines sustainability with stylish city centre living.
The key principles of One Planet Living have been major considerations at the development: zero carbon emissions, a zero-waste plan, use of sustainable materials, implementation of sustainable transport solutions and the application of measures to support local and sustainable food and wildlife. These have been applied in both the construction of the scheme and the functionality of the homes for its residents.
In order to optimise energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions, the scheme will be powered by energy from guaranteed renewable sources. Hot water and space heating will be provided by an on-site biomass boiler that will burn locally sourced woodchip from tree surgery waste, discarded wood pallets and saw mill cut-offs. The majority of the site’s electricity will be provided by off-site renewable sources. It will be supplemented with some unique eco-features including photovoltaic panels and eight small-scale wind turbines located on the roof.
Minimising waste at the development has been addressed in two key areas: during construction the developers have set a target of including 25 per cent recycled materials – for example, concrete used at the scheme contains 60 per cent recycled content including aggregate that is a by-product of the china-clay industry in Cornwall. In the homes, kitchens will be fitted with segregated rubbish bins to help residents divide their waste with ease. Organic waste bins will also be provided and the contents of which can be transferred to an on-site composter. Furthermore, all apartments will be fitted with water efficient fittings, taps and appliances.
Residents at One Brighton will be able to make use of several unique features of the development for an enhanced lifestyle: rooftop allotments and balcony planters will be an integral part of the development where residents will be encouraged to grow their own produce. A rain water harvesting system will also provide ample irrigation. For those who enjoy outside space in which to relax, sky and roof gardens along with Brighton’s newest square will provide the ideal places to unwind.
One Brighton aims to take away the need for a car by linking to local cycle routes into the city and to Brighton train station. For travelling further afield, the on-site car club means residents can hire a car as and when they require.
Prices start at £145,000 for a studio, £205,000 for a one-bedroom and £290,000 for a two-bedroom apartment. Contact 0870 752 1820 or visit onebrighton.co.uk.
In the village of South Nutfield, Surrey, Osborne and Raven Housing Trust officially open the Mid Street housing development, which is called the most energy-efficient social housing in the UK.
The development comprises the first 100 per cent affordable housing scheme to achieve Level 5 of the Code for Sustainable Homes.
The energy usage at Mid Street will be monitored by the Energy Saving Trust and records will be kept on how much energy – and money – is saved by the residents in utility bills over the next two years.
The new homes are very much in-keeping with the surrounding area and mirror the predominantly red-brick Victorian architecture of the village. However despite their conventional appearance, the properties boast a raft of green features such as photo-voltaic panels, biomass wood-chip boilers and UPVC windows. They were built using highly innovative structural insulated panels which contribute to a reduction in the homes’ energy consumption. Their tenants will therefore enjoy cheaper fuel bills and a more sustainable way of life.
The new scheme has been built on a disused piece of brown-field land owned by Tandridge District Council. The Council transferred the land to Raven Housing Trust at no cost, and will also be contributing additional funding to enable the scheme to achieve Level 5 of the Code for Sustainable Homes.
The Housing Corporation will be providing £157,000 in social housing grant, and both Osborne and Raven Housing Trust have provided supplementary funding to make the Mid Street homes a reality. Other funders involved include: BERR (former DTI) Low Carbon Building Programme Phase 2 and The Energy Saving Trust.
Nicholas Harris, chief executive for Raven Housing Trust, says, ‘Raven Housing Trust believes in delivering innovative developments that benefit our residents, the environment and creating sustainable homes for the future. The new technologies within these homes will provide our residents with lower bills for electricity, water and space heating and also lower water bills.’
In Felbridge, Surrey, Springfield Gardens comprises two four-bedroom detached properties and four three-bedroom semi-detached homes. The development combines cross gabled roofing with tiled frontage and pavilion-hipped roofing with traditional red brick, to create a visually diverse collection of properties. More than 50 per cent of the houses have solar thermal panels which reduce carbon emissions.
Each property comes fitted with a luxury custom built kitchen and appliances which include a Siemens stainless steel oven, a Siemens stainless steel gas hob, an integrated fridge/freezer, and an integrated dishwasher. All of the houses incorporate a contemporary open plan kitchen/dining area, which is ideal for socialising. There are also French doors which lead out onto the garden, flooding the space with natural light.
Springfield Gardens benefits from the towns of East Grinstead and Crawley being just a few minutes drive away, whilst residents can also enjoy the open country and wooded lands surrounding Felbridge. Crawley and East Grinstead train stations both have direct trains to London Victoria, which take about 50 minutes.
Prices at this development start from £329,950 for a three bedroom semi-detached home. For further information please contact Antler Homes on telephone: 01342 410802 or visit the website antlerhomes.co.uk.
St George is offering a range of green components to its developments, from innovative natural roofs to opportunities to get around with less effect on the environment.
The developer will be installing a green roof system in the next stages of their Imperial Wharf and Battersea Reach developments. This is basically a landscaped garden on the roof of a building, comprising everything from 100 per cent grass to combinations of shrubs, heather, wild flowers and trees. Its primary aim is to improve sustainability and biodiversity by increasing levels of oxygen, providing a safe habitat for birds and animals and reducing smog, carbon dioxide and dust.
Meanwhile, St George has incorporated the eco-friendly Electric Green car club at Imperial Wharf and St George Wharf, offering residents easy and convenient hire of the G-Wiz vehicle. Booked online, the vehicles offer significant cost savings, congestion charge free travel throughout the capital, free parking in the City of Westminster and City of London whilst also helping to reduce CO2 emissions. The Parkwest development has a simlar club but uses the Honda Civic Hybrids instead of the G-Wiz vehicles.
Finally, the developer is undergoing a three-year plan to turn a section of the bank of the River Thames into a tidal habitat on its Battersea Reach development in SW18. The innovative environmental scheme will transform an area of barren, lifeless mud banks into a haven for plant and wildlife - a valuable example of how a contemporary urban architectural scheme can work alongside the natural environment, ensuring its protection and continuity of flora and fauna. See stgeorge.co.uk below for more information.
Renaissance is a forthcoming Addlestone High Street site by Premier. Building has just started at Renaissance, the Surrey-based developer’s latest project in the area. Premier Properties is building 20 brand new environmentally-friendly apartments on the 0.6 acre site. Ten per cent of the energy used by the development will be taken from renewable resources; the roofing will incorporate solar panels which help to increase energy efficiency by cutting fuel costs and carbon emissions. Completion of the development is scheduled for November.
Every Premier home boasts that little extra edge that comes from using the best materials and fittings, most obviously in the kitchens and bathrooms. Reflecting the outlook of its typical buyer, the development has a unique contemporary design, which features large windows, glass balconies and warm red brick.
‘These apartments will be developed to our award-winning high standard,’ comments Matt Jelley, Sales and Marketing Manager of Premier Properties. ‘The location will appeal to those buyers who want good commuter links but prefer a village setting’.
From the development’s central High Street location, all amenities will be close at hand, with good communications links into London with its business, retail and cultural facilities. There is also easy access to Heathrow, the M25 and the motorway network. The surrounding countryside provides great leisure opportunities for all tastes.
Addlestone is a former hamlet, taking its name from ‘Attel’s Denu’ – ie, the valley owned by Attel, a Saxon figure. Situated on the outskirts of Weybridge in Surrey, it really started to grow when the railway arrived in 1848. Prior to that, however, and thanks to the nearby Wey Navigation and Basingstoke Canal, industry was found in the area from the 17th century. The George, the town’s oldest inn, dates back to the 16th century. Addlestone is also home to the Crouch Oak, reputedly one of Britain’s oldest trees at 1,000 years, and a place where Queen Elizabeth I is said to have stopped to picnic. The Oak used to mark the boundary of Windsor Forest, and was fenced around in 1810 to prevent young maidens stripping its bark to make love potions.
Prices at Renaissance in Addlestone will start from £215,000 for a one-bedroom apartment. For further information please contact Premier Properties on 01276 406765 or the selling agents, Curchods in Ottershaw on 01932 874488. Alternatively, visit premier-properties.co.uk.
Shanly Homes has launched Cressex Close in High Wycombe, where buyers will find a mix of tradition and modern convenience should consider High Wycombe, home of the famous Mayor weigh-in - and the new Eden shopping hub. There will be 13 two-, three- and four-bedroom mews, semi-detached and detached family homes on Cressex Road.
The location, in the heart of the Buckinghamshire countryside, has a street market that dates to the medieval era.
In keeping with the Greener by Design initiative, various eco-friendly features have been incorporated into the development, including solar panels that contribute to the supply of hot water, energy-efficient appliances (A-rated where possible), bird boxes and water butts in every garden, and RSPB membership for all households.
The homes have landscaped front gardens, double ovens with gas hobs and extractor hoods, fully integrated fridge/freezers, dishwashers and washer/dryers, thermostatic showers, flush eucalyptus doors, polished chrome ironmongery, and built-in wardrobes with glass sliding doors in almost all bedrooms.
A major new shopping hub, Eden, has just opened, offering a 12-screen cinema, a library, restaurants, state-of-the-art bowling alley and over 50 shops including a four-level House of Fraser and two-level Marks & Spencer. Eden will have parking spaces for over 1500 cars and a new bus passenger interchange.
High Wycombe station offers a regular service to London Marylebone in just over half an hour, making it possible for residents to get into the office in the greenest way possible. A show home is open Thursday to Monday 10am to 5pm. Prices start from £265,000. Call 01494 685822 or visit shanlyhomes.com.
With the government’s commitment to providing a high proportion of sustainable development on brownfield sites, Farnborough Central by Redrow Homes sets a precedent. Built on Farnborough Airfield, Hampshire, it’s part of a huge regeneration project which includes a mix of new homes, offices and shops, creating an exciting, sustainable new community.
The 12-acre residential development will eventually comprise a mix of 476 new homes including new and refurbished apartments and town houses. Central to the development is a 250ft long airship hangar frame which provides a striking piece of historic architecture, and the site’s design has been influenced by Farnborough’s aviation connections. The first phase of 32 one- and two-bedroom apartments has just launched, and is attracting a lot of attention.
Paul Hogarth of selling agent Knight Frank South East says, ‘This development offers purchasers a unique opportunity to be part of something with real historic significance. The regeneration is creating a really exciting mix of business and leisure opportunities. Several large businesses including BMW and IBM are now based here, so the apartments are great for young professionals who might work at the Business Park, or for buy-to-let investors looking at the opportunity for corporate lets. Its location close to the M3 and Farnborough railway station also means that Farnborough Central is within commuting distance to the City, so these apartments offer affordability for those priced out of the London suburbs. Eight sold at the launch, and we expect their popularity to continue.’
Phase I, Cathedral Court, includes 32 spacious one and two bedroom apartments and sumptuous duplexes in a conversion block with plenty of character. One of the former Royal Aircraft Establishment (REA) buildings, its exterior reflects the art deco period, whilst inside, it has been beautifully converted to offer distinctively designed contemporary apartments, seamlessly combining old and new.
Apartments include spacious, open plan kitchen / living areas with full height windows which create a light and airy feel. Kitchens are fully fitted with an integrated dishwasher, fridge/freezer and washer/dryer. One bedroom apartments include a separate bathroom, whilst there is an additional en suite to the master bedroom in the two bedroom apartments. In all apartments, the master bedroom has fitted wardrobes. Bathrooms are fitted with white sanitary ware and chrome effect taps, as well as full height tiles to wet walls.
Farnborough Central is part of a wider project to regenerate Farnborough Airfield, which is currently undergoing a transformation that includes a new business centre, contemporary offices, studio workshops, a cafe-bar, a heritage centre, a children's nursery, as well as a hotel and leisure complex.
Farnborough Central benefits from excellent communication links. Junctions 4 and 4a of the M3 are within easy reach, and Farnborough railway station is approximately two miles away, with services to London Waterloo and Bournemouth, via Basingstoke.
Farnborough itself offers plenty of leisure and entertainment opportunities with three shopping centres, a wide range of pubs and bars and the largest leisure centre in Hampshire. Alternatively, for rest and relaxation, Yateley Common Country Park which has 476 acres of heathland, woods, grasslands and ponds is nearby.
Farnborough Central is for sale through Knight Frank, priced from £175,000. Please telephone Knight Frank on 01483 564660 or visit the website knightfrank.com for further information

Amanda Shiel takes a look at the latest developments on offer

Stanmore      
This beautifully presented penthouse offers three-bedrooms and three bathrooms and boasts an array of convenient and appealing features. It benefits from two secure underground parking bays, entryphone system and direct lift access leading up to the spacious hall.
Low on maintenance and high on style, the property offers generously proportioned rooms. The impressive 38ft double aspect living room benefits from a feature fireplace and terrace - the perfect setting for relaxing on summer nights.
The fitted kitchen/breakfast room is equally impressive with an extensive range of useful wall and base units and integrated appliances. This ample storage space continues in the inner lobby, which features a further range of floor to ceiling cupboards.
The master bedroom is equipped with a central dressing table and features a range of fitted wardrobes and an en-suite bathroom. There is also a further bedroom with en-suite and a third bedroom, which is currently used as a study, complete with stylish office furniture.
With its enviable position in a sought-after development off Stanmore Hill, this stunning property provides a peaceful ambience, yet remains in easy reach of the hustle and bustle of daily life. It is conveniently placed within easy reach of Stanmore’s shops, leisure facilities and places of worship and is also well-placed for the Jubilee Line tube station and major motorway links.
On the market for £750,000. For further information or an appointment to view, please Preston Bennett on 020 8954 0044 or visit prestonbennett.co.uk.

Mill Hill
Mill Rise is a striking development of restored one- and two-bedroom, 1930’s bungalows and apartments set in the Mill Hill conservation area. The development benefits from mature landscaping and breathtaking views across London and has access to miles of pathways through the surrounding parkland.
Externally, properties have an Arts and Crafts influence, with red brick work, tiled gabled roofs and large bay windows. Interiors are more contemporary with fully fitted individually designed kitchens. Elegant bathrooms feature white sanitaryware and chrome fixtures and fittings. Security is of utmost importance and homes are fitted with a burglar alarm, police approved doors and audio entry systems. There is also an on site concierge service. 
Mill Rise is perfectly situated to take advantage of Mill Hill Broadway, which offers a wide variety of well-established shops, restaurants and cafes. Mill Hill East underground station is approximately 1.3 miles away and Mill Hill Broadway which is serviced by the Thameslink line is approximately 2.2 miles away.
Prices for a two-bedroom bungalow start from £299,950. The sales and marketing suite and show home are open every day from 10am-5pm.
For more information call 020 8906 2348 or visit millrisehomes.net.     

Kilburn
The Academy will combine 63 luxurious one- and two-bedroom apartments and duplexes across two high specification new-build developments and within a beautifully refurbished Edwardian college building from which the scheme’s name has been derived. 
Homes have large windows and open plan living areas that maximise the use of light and space, with sizeable living/dining areas and fitted modern kitchens enhancing the chic yet urban feel inside the new homes. The two-bedroom apartments will have en-suite facilities to the master bedroom, and typical interior specifications include stainless steel Bosch appliances in the kitchen and, in the bathrooms, white sanitaryware by Roca with chrome Hansgrohe mixer taps and fittings. The Academy will also benefit from secure underground parking. 
Subject to the stage of construction, Crest Nicholson offers purchasers the option to co-ordinate various additional features of the interior finish to create a more personal space that meets their individual requirements.
The Academy is superbly located for transport links into central London with both Kilburn and Queens Park tube stations, in Zone 2, only a short stroll away. Brondesbury Overground  station and additional bus services also offer fast routes around the capital.

Pinner
Featuring a collection of 38 one- and two-bed apartments, The Residence has been uniquely designed for privacy and security, with gated underground parking and a private resident’s garden.    
Typical layouts include an open plan kitchen-living room and, in the two bedroom apartments, en-suite facilities to the master bedroom.
The Residence is ideally situated just 16 miles away from the City of London and has excellent transport links via the Metropolitan Line to Baker Street or London Overground train services to London Euston or Watford Junction. As well as enviable rail links, Pinner lies at the heart of a comprehensive road network with access to the A40/M40, M4, M25 and M1 to Luton and Heathrow airports,  yet still retains a laidback café-culture and village ambiance that is unusual for such a centrally located area. 
Prices at The Residence start from £279,950 for a one-bedroom apartment, and £359,950 for a two-bedroom apartment. For more information or to book an appointment contact the sales and marketing suite on 0870 755 1626, or alternatively visit crestnicholson.com.

Hadley Wood
Situated amid the Tudor-style splendor of the row of detached houses on Cockfosters Road, Hadley House is a striking collection of ten individually designed two-bedroom homes by Manor Kingdom (Southern).
Every apartment has two generously proportioned bedrooms with an en suite to the master bedroom. Superior specification is consistent throughout the development, with each home fitted with designer Italian kitchens containing fully integrated appliances.
Prices at Hadley House start from £674,950. The sales office is open Thursday to Monday and is available on 0208 441 7275. Alternatively, call selling agents Statons on 0208 441 9555.

Hendon
Situated amongst a generous amount of green spaces and covering an area of 25 acres, Beaufort Park is one of the largest St George developments and will incorporate a large number of green, tranquil spaces and courtyards that make the perfect setting for relaxing at any time of the day.  In addition to the large central landscaped parkland the size of Berkeley Square, each block is built around its own central courtyard which is only accessible to those living in the apartments surrounding it. Many apartments on the development benefit from a balcony or terrace with fantastic views over landscaped parkland, private courtyards or the tree line avenues.
This new mixed-use development is situated on the historically important previous RAF Hendon Aerodrome site and named after the noted aviation pioneer and first woman to fly across the Atlantic, Amelia Earhart. It incorporates a number of contemporary studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses, in addition to a number of commercial outlets, such as Tesco and a Young’s pub.
Prices start at £174,950 for a studio. For more information contact the Marketing Suite on 020 8511 8600.

Watford
Queensgate is a development of 94 contemporary one- and two-bedroom apartments and duplex penthouses located just yards from the Harlequin Centre. Just six, two-bedroom apartments remain for sale, all of which can be purchased under the First Time Buyer Initiative. 
Prices start from £290,000.
For further information call the sales and marketing suite on 01923 256538, open Thursday to Sunday 10am-6pm, Monday 2pm-6pm. Information on all Barratt Homes developments are available on barratthomes.co.uk. 

Islington
London developers Modern City Living and Londonewcastle will be launching penthouse apartments in their landmark Islington development, The Wenlock Building.
Located on the banks of the picturesque Regent’s Canal and just a short walk from Islington’s trendy Upper Street, the Wenlock Building is perfectly situated for the amenities of surrounding Islington and Shoreditch as well as the City’s commercial centre and benefits from convenient transport links to the West End. All penthouse apartments benefit from views which take in London’s most famous landmarks including the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, the BT Tower and the Gherkin.
Contemporary design specialists Johnson Naylor have been responsible for the interior design and all penthouses feature basalt or engineered hardwood floors; 80/20 chinchilla wool carpets to bedrooms and under floor heating throughout.
Generously sized kitchens feature Corian work surfaces in glacier white, Siemen’s integrated appliances and Hansgrohe chrome mixer tap. Bathrooms and ensuites have a natural stone floor finish and feature Kaldewei baths and shower units, and an Italian NIC Design Cult ceramic basin with a Bonomi spout mixer tap.
All residents will be able to enjoy an elegant glass fronted cultural space on the ground floor which will include a bar restaurant and gallery. A concierge along with a video entry phone offer security for residents whilst precabling is in place for the installation of Smart Homes technology.
Prices start from £1million.
For further sales information, contact agents Chesterton on 020 7288 0330 or Hurford Salvi Carr on 020 7791 7071.

 

As spring draws us outdoors, we see what wonderful outdoor space can do for quality of life. Johnny Turner finds much to admire in the current crop of new homes with access to nature

Outside space can take many forms: private, lush greenery, communal grounds, a cosy patio ideal for dining a deux, local parkland – or any combination of the above. As spring continues its welcome progress, it’s a good time for prospective buyers to look at what’s on the market that offers gardens, nearby countryside or other types of ways of being ‘out there’.
Starting in much-loved Hindhead, Surrey, The Beacon is set within 6.4 acres of beautiful mature landscaped gardens with private parking and tennis courts, and also offers a golfing green. With the exclusivity and privacy of a country estate, this Crest Nicholson development is a new gated collection of stunning apartments set among Surrey’s famous areas of outstanding natural beauty.
The homes have been designed to enhance their beautiful setting. Beyond the development’s wide, sweeping lawns and verdant parkland lay the breathtaking views of the Surrey hills, one of England’s finest landscapes. The development itself is situated on top of Gibbet Hill, the second highest hill in Surrey, affording residents spectacular country views across the Weald and, on a clear day, as far as Canary Wharf.
Residents can also enjoy towering above the impressive Devil’s Punchbowl, a large hollow of dry sandy heath in which, legend has it; the devil spent his time tormenting the God Thor by pelting him with enormous handfuls of earth, leaving the great bowl that exists today.
The quaint village of Hindhead offers a range of local amenities and excellent road links, which will be improved further in 2011 with the construction of the new A3 Hindhead tunnel. The pretty town of Haslemere, with its cobbled streets and selection of eateries, is approximately five miles away. Guildford, 15 miles from the development, offers leisure facilities and an array of restaurants and bars.
Three bedroom apartments are priced from £374,950. For more information on The Beacon contact the sales and marketing suite on 0870 751 0496 or visit crestnicholson.com/thebeacon.
The first collection of apartments has been unveiled at the recent launch of Springhead Park – and with over 100 visitors 12 reservations during that event, it is clear that joint developers Countryside Properties and Land Securities are on to a winner.
Set in the wonderfully connected Ebbsfleet Valley, Springhead Park will provide a mixture of one- and two-bedroom apartments and two-, three- and four-bedroom houses – over 600 homes eventually. The homes will be centred around a large two-and-a-half-acre new formal park known as Penn Green and a new 15-acre park which will run along the edge of development. There will also be a community centre, a place of worship and a doctor’s surgery. A total of around 150 homes will be available through a housing association as affordable homes and will be ‘pepper-potted’ throughout the scheme.
The first 22 apartments were released for sale last month. In total, 179 units will be available in the first phase of development. Residents will benefit from the huge investment and infrastructure improvements that continue to elevate and transform the area. Beautiful Kent countryside is on the doorstep, yet London and beyond are within easy reach via Ebbsfleet International station: indeed, Ebbsfleet will offer a 17-minute connection to St Pancras International station from 2009.
At more than 1,000 acres Ebbsfleet Valley will provide up to 10,000 new homes over the next twenty years, together with employment, retail, leisure and other facilities and will create in the region of 20,000 new jobs and around 400 acres of new parks, lakes, woodland and open space.
Springhead Park will have a clean, modern, yet classic feel to it. A tree-lined boulevard will run through the heart, branching into more intimate residential streets and spaces. At the centre of Springboard Park, the formal Penn Green will be beautifully landscaped focusing on a central plaza with play area. Further recreational space will be provided in a new park running the length of the development; this will include playing fields as well as informal parkland.
Prices at Springhead Park start at £165,000 for a one-bedroom apartment and £195,000 for a two-bedroom apartment; houses will be released in late spring. For further information contact the sales and marketing suite on 01474 335195 or visit springheadpark.co.uk.
At The Heathers in Priory Vale, buyers are able to reserve a home for just £99. Bellway Homes is offering this incentive with first-time buyers in mind. The developer is also offering to pay the 5 per cent deposit and legal fees up to £500.
Bellway Wessex sales director Sandra Barton says, ‘The offer is perfect for first-time buyers who, though in full time employment, find it impossible to save for a deposit and have to live in rented accommodation or at home with their parents. Money that would otherwise be lost in rent can be invested in a home of their own.’
The modern, vibrant site is within easy reach of Swindon town centre, while the new village of Priory Vale has a primary school and the Orbital Shopping Park boasts the largest Asda/Walmart in Europe. There is also a health centre, plus cafés and restaurants and other well-known retailers such as Next. There’s also a nature reserve and a country park and the site is close to the North Swindon Learning Centre.
Swindon town centre is approximately 15 minutes away by road. The area is also well placed for commuters to Reading, London and Bristol, as train journeys to Reading are within half an hour. London Paddington is within an hour and Bristol Temple Meads between 30 and 45 minutes.
There are currently one- and two-bedroom apartments, priced from £109,000. The marketing suite is open daily from 10am to 5pm. Call 01793 729283 or visit bellway.co.uk.
The Thatchams occupies a prominent position within the village of Priors Green, located on the outskirts of the popular village of Little Canfield. Two village ponds front the development and the two, three and four bedroom houses flank tree-lined boulevards. There are also two landscaped children’s play areas at the heart of the development.
Bishop’s Stortford is just over six miles away, with its wide range of high street and boutique shops, cafes, bars and restaurants, as well as excellent local schools. Priors Green is conveniently located just four miles from junction 8 of the M11, which offers access to London in the South and North to Cambridge and beyond. There are regular trains to London Liverpool Street from Bishop’s Stortford train station, taking approximately 43 minutes. London Stansted Airport is just under three miles away.
There are 11 different house types which combine red brickwork, buttermilk rendering, white weather boarding and red clay and grey slate roof tiles – all influenced by the local architectural vernacular. Varied rooflines, bay windows, dormer windows and porches give the development a strong character.
Internally each property has been designed with the buyer in mind. Great emphasis has been placed on creating well proportioned, light and airy living spaces. Houses feature open plan kitchen/breakfast or kitchen/living areas, with doors leading onto a garden. Master bedrooms have either fitted wardrobes or dressing rooms and an en-suite shower or bathroom fitted with sleek white sanitary ware and chrome fixtures and fittings.
Every property at The Thatchams has an EcoHomes rating of Good and incorporates eco-friendly features, including dual flush toilets and water butts in the garden, designed to help residents play their part in preserving the environment without impacting on their daily lives.
Prices at The Thatchams start from £200,000 for a two bedroom house, from £236,000 for a three bedroom house and from £350,000 for a four bedroom house. Contact the marketing suite on 0845 071 2072 or visit thatchams.net.
Bryant Homes’ Childsbridge Farm development in Seal, near Sevenoaks offers the best of both worlds: wonderful village life as well as great commutability.
The development is very convenient for the M25, meaning families and young professionals for whom time is of the essence will benefit greatly. The setting is also calm and picturesque. The development has just 17 three-bedroom homes, all with a distinct barn conversion feel which makes them stand out from similar properties in the area. The development has already seen floods of potential buyers register their interest.
Childsbridge Farm is about a ten-minute drive from Sevenoaks station, which provides services to London Charing Cross in about 35 minutes. Kemsing station is also a short walk away, offering routes to London Victoria. Both the M25 and M20 are about 10 minutes away, whilst for travel further afield, Gatwick airport is just over 30 minutes by car.
Families will find Seal C of E primary school and Wildernesse secondary and sixth form school within easy reach and at the weekend, Sevenoaks Leisure Centre is fully equipped with a 25 metre pool, gym, health suite, creche and catering facilities. Alternatively, there are plenty of parks and heritage sites in the area to enjoy including the National Trust's Knole Park.
For further information about Childsbridge Farm, visit the marketing suite, open daily, or call 0845 026 5710. See bryant.co.uk/southeast.
Explore Living has just announced the launch of New Meridian Village, an exclusive new family-friendly development located in the coastal town of Ramsgate, Kent.
Here a disused 6.9-acre site on Manston Road will become a vibrant residential destination, sure to be popular with a range of buyer types, from families to first-timers. When complete, the development will comprise 207 homes ranging from studios to four-bedroom town houses.
The homes have high-specification fixtures and fittings, while solid concrete floors and staircases plus double glazed UPVC windows minimise maintenance. Kitchens have high-performance integrated appliances and concealed pull-up power outlets to maximise usable work surface space. En suite bathrooms feature digital showers and apartments have an audio/visual entry system linked to the TV for that extra peace of mind.
There is underfloor heating, plus abundant telephone points, pre-wiring for satellite TV and provision for a wall-mounted flat screen TVs.
The development offers large amount of landscaped green spaces rich with trees, and has been designed to provide a safer, greener and altogether better environment for children and adults alike, as well as to foster a strong sense of community. Cleverly designed ‘home zones’ include roads laid out to discourage speeding and excessive traffic.
John Inglis, sales and marketing director of Explore Living, says, ‘New Meridian Village is one of the most exciting projects in the South East at the moment because of its location within a prime regeneration area and the wide variety of homes available. The development offers purchasers affordable homes with good potential for capital growth in years to come thanks to the new high speed rail link expected to open in 2009.’
The development is well situated minutes from Ramsgate’s town centre and high street and just a short distance from the seafront, a sport centre, a leisure park and the town’s centrepiece, Ramsgate Marina. Ramsgate itself is also set to benefit from new commercial, residential and leisure developments and, from 2009, will enjoy a new high-speed rail link between Ebbsfleet and Stratford, allowing commuters to get into London in just 63 minutes.
The 22 homes in the first phase include one studio apartment, 13 one- and two-bedroom apartments, four three-bedroom houses and four four-bedroom houses. Prices for a studio apartment at New Meridian Village start at just £99,995; houses are priced from £249,995. For more information call Explore Living on 0845 872 1004 or visit exploreliving.co.uk
The first few exclusive homes from Stamford Homes are now available in the desirable village of Nassington, in the Nene Valley. Whittington’s Meadow is a development that offers a wonderful village lifestyle as well as five noteworthy public schools on the doorstep, plus a choice of independent schools within easy driving distance.
The attractive stone village has shops, pubs and a thriving rural community. The first few exclusive homes are due for completion in June. Prices for these high-specification five-bedroom homes start at £670,000.
Plans are available to view at Savills estate agents offices in Stamford, Oundle and Peterborough. Also contact Stamford Homes connections manager Juliana Russell on 07970 000224.
Oakdene Homes has just launched its luxury new show apartment at Swaylands, the fabulous conversion of one of Kent’s best-known country houses on the outskirts of Penshurst, Kent. The homes are set in a lush, beautifully designed 50-acre estate and offer a breathtaking specification as well as access to the type of scenery that reminds you why Kent is called the Garden of England.
Oakdene Homes has restored and converted the beautiful structure into 28 luxurious two- and three-bedroom apartments, two new blocks and the conversion of outbuildings into six mews houses.
The new two-bedroom show apartment is set within the main house at Swaylands. More like a house than an apartment, the 3,000 sq ft apartment is set over three floors and boasts two private patio areas and a roof terrace offering stunning views over the estate and surrounding countryside.
The basement has been renovated to provide further living space and provides a spacious flow of open-plan rooms including a steam room shower area. With the downstairs space separate from the other rooms, this will appeal to many homebuyers who are looking for flexible living, enabling teenagers and older children to take advantage of their own space and independence – and this layout is available at a range of units.
The 50-acre mid-Victorian estate offers an opulent lifestyle indoors and out, with plenty of wandering space outside: there is a listed rockery, a lake, sumptuous landscaped gardens and the sheer beauty and luxury of the original brickwork and architecture. Other facilities include a tennis court and gymnasium.
Penshurst village, situated within the view of Swaylands, is the quintessential English village combining a cricket ground with traditional village pubs, olde-worlde tearooms and the River Medway. It’s near Tunbridge Wells, for great shopping and transport connections.
Prices at Swaylands start at £499,950 for a two-bedroom apartment. For further information contact Oakdene Homes on 01737 249393 or visit swaylands.co.uk.
Great Homes offers Highlands, a brand new development of retirement apartments in Main Road, Gidea Park. A show apartment and sales suite have recently opened and the development is due for completion this summer.
Located in the heart of the Gidea Park Conservation Area, Highlands stands on what was once part of an estate belonging to local dignitary and MP Sir Herbert Raphael. In 1909 he had the idea of creating an ‘exhibition of houses and cottages’ reminiscent of a garden suburb – and many of those fine buildings, which echo the Arts and Crafts period, remain today.
Highlands will provide 23 one- and two-bedroom apartments plus communal lounge and dining areas, a library, high specification kitchens and state-of-the-art safety and security features. It has been designed exclusively for buyers of 60 years and over, and will stand in landscaped gardens that feature a number of the original mature trees that the developer has carefully preserved.
Highlands emphasises an independent lifestyle, with each apartment designed given a thoughtful layout for ease of living. There’s an open-plan arrangement for the main rooms, sizable bathrooms with elegant sanitaryware, vanity units, baths and showers, lots of storage space, a private hallway and an impressive kitchen. Affording a wood finish and quartz worktops, the kitchens have a range of integrated Bosch appliances, including a washer/dryer, fridge and freezer, oven, combination microwave and a hob with an extractor above. Spot and pelmet lighting give it a stylish feel.
There will be high-quality communal facilities and a number of safety and security features. There will be a residents’ lounge, conservatory and library, along with a guest suite and buggy store. A duty manager will ensure the smooth running of the complex, while the building itself will have CCTV entryphone, a 24-hour emergency support team at the press of a button, and a gated driveway to the entrance.
Highlands is ideally located for local amenities. Its eventual residents will be able to shop at the nearby newsagent, supermarket and pharmacy, enjoy public open spaces such as at Raphael Park, or use the excellent road and rail infrastructure for travelling to nearby Romford town centre, Upminster, Brentwood or further afield. A trip into London to see a show is a distinct possibility too.
The Highlands sales suite is open 10am through to 5pm every Saturday and Sunday or for further information contact the selling agent Porter Glenny on 01708 725000. Visit greathomesltd.co.uk.
At The Manor, City & Country Group’s award-winning development at Herringswell, near Newmarket, Suffolk, The Archery Court is a visually striking house with an unusual previous incarnation. Originally built in the early 1980s as part of the Japanese boarding school that occupied The Manor from 1985 to 2001, The Archery Court was, as the name suggests, where students honed their skills with a bow and arrow, shooting arrows from what is now the ground floor living area to hit targets at the far end of the property’s garden.
The building has now been converted into a highly contemporary three-bedroom house that has an interesting touch of the Orient about it. Externally, the two-storey geometric property features crisp soft greenish grey render and grey slate roof tiles and has a series of full-height sliding-glass screens that run almost the full width of the house, inspired by traditional Japanese houses. The glass doors lead onto a timber-decked terrace and, beyond, a partly walled private garden, perfect for entertaining in the summer months.
The ground floor includes a large, light-filled open plan living/dining room looking on to the lovely garden, as well as a luxurious bespoke eat-in kitchen, with unusual solid bamboo work surfaces and stainless steel appliances. Upstairs, there are three double bedrooms, two with en suite bathrooms, and a family shower room.
The Manor is set in over eight acres of stunning grounds in the beautiful Suffolk countryside. City & Country Group has created a woodland walk, which meanders through the mature trees that surround the development. The Manor is less than seven miles from Newmarket, less than 22 miles from Cambridge and just over 40 miles from Stansted Airport.
The home is priced at £535,000. Viewing is by appointment only. Call City & Country Group on 01279 818 900, Bidwells on 01223 841842 or Savills on 01223 347000. Visit herringswellmanor.co.uk.

Grow your own
Growing your own vegetables has never been more popular, as produce prices rise and food role models such as Jamie Oliver urge more healthy eating.
Those who live in cities may think they don’t have the space to grown their own veg – however, an ingenious invention makes it possible for the most urban of us to be healthier and more self-succifient, even in a small space.
Patio-Gro, a new three-tiered growing frame from Gro Garden Products, offers a staggering 18 square feet of growing space yet takes up an area of just 22’ x 70’. Specially designed for those with limited outdoor space, Patio-Gro can be placed on a patio, terrace, courtyard, balcony or any open space, enabling you to grow organic, chemical-free and environmentally friendly home-grown produce.
Patio-Gro includes ‘deep’ trays, allowing the direct sowing of seeds and plants. The three-tier system offers maximum light and ventilation for the plants. Patio-Gro will grow vegetables, herbs, salads, fruits and even alpines and bulbs, and all without the need of a garden. Growing your own vegetables for the first time can be great fun too and since its launch this year Patio-Gro has been proved a big hit with children and schools.
Patio-Gro, priced at £69.95 plus postage, is available online at grogardenproducts.co.uk.

Gardeners go green
Charlie Dimmock is urging gardeners to tackle climate change in our back gardens as we observe Compost Awareness Week. The TV gardener warns that our impact on the environment is already showing. And gardeners are in the perfect position to respond to the challenge in our own back gardens, says the green-fingered goddess.
Gardeners report already seeing signs of environmental change in their garden. Seven out of ten gardeners polled say plants are blooming much earlier than expected this year, over half have had to cut their grass sooner or later than previous years and 43 per cent claim they are now having to mow their lawns more frequently.
These figures, from Waste & Resources Action Programme to mark Compost Awareness Week (Sunday 4 May to Saturday 10 May), are up on previous years, which suggests that current environmental damage will actually affect our generation rather than the next. But what can you do to “green up” your act?
Recycle as much garden waste as possible, as 76 per cent currently do. Composting is an ideal way to go green, as more and more of us are discovering: the percentage of gardeners choosing to home compost has increased from 34 per cent to 53 per cent this year, and 41 per cent of gardeners now buy peat-free composts containing recycled materials.
There are also many things non-gardeners can do to slow the damage we are doing to the environment. For more information visit compostawarenessweek.org.uk.

Gardens are ‘little goldmines’
The UK’s gardens are turning into goldmines crammed with exotic plants, hi-tech tools and luxury furniture worth a whopping £18.6 billion, according to new research by Lloyds TSB Insurance.
The survey found that the contents of the average garden are worth £1,237, while one in ten gardens contains goods worth over an incredible £3,000. In a typical garden, the most expensive single item is on average £426 but five per cent have a single item over £1,000.
As for gardening itself, a quarter of Brits (26 per cent) enjoy more than six hours a week in their garden during the spring and summer months. One-third of gardens have ornamental plants, a quarter have statues and ornaments and 22 per cent have a water feature. Seven in ten have a patio heater while six per cent have a sun house.
Half of Brits spend £200 on their garden every year, while three per cent spend over £750. Top of the gardener’s “wish list” for 2008 is a wallet-busting hot tub, followed by decking and water features.
But despite spending so much on their gardens, most Brits don’t know whether they are insured properly. Over half (55 per cent) have never checked whether their garden contents are included on their home insurance policy, while 87 per cent don’t review the value of their gardens each year to make sure they are covered. But Lloyds TSB Insurance warns that accidents do happen. Last year, the insurer processed 5,244 garden claims with an average value of £726.

Amanda Shiel takes a look at the latest homes available in this picturesque county

Bushey Heath
Fairways is a traditionally styled six-bedroom residence. Internally, the luxurious kitchen/breakfast room incorporates all the latest Miele appliances set within an extensive range of custom built storage units and worktops. The five bathrooms enjoy stylish contemporary white suites and the bedrooms are fitted with fine Italian wardrobes.
A great emphasis has also been placed on security. Fairways has the advantage of a sophisticated video entry system, alarm system and CCTV for added peace of mind.
Outside, the landscaped garden too has been specially designed to create the perfect place to relax or entertain and includes state-of-the-art pop-up irrigation system. There is even a balcony from the master suite and a superb terrace from which to fully appreciate the grounds and magnificent views on offer.
Situated in sought-after Prowse Avenue, this elegant home offers a degree of seclusion whilst remaining close to shops, leisure facilities, places of worship, transport links and good schools. More extensive amenities can be found at nearby Stanmore and Watford, while Brent Cross shopping centre is a short drive away.
Priced at £4 million. Potential buyers are invited to attend a special launch event on 10-11 May 2008 from 10am-4pm. For further information or to make an appointment, please contact selling agents Preston Bennett New Homes on 020 8954 8626 or visit prestonbennett.co.uk.

Broxbourne
New River Mews comprises 13 three-bedroom houses and one four-bedroom house. Configured in a private mews, the houses include either a garage or a carport.
Each property is fitted with a stylish Urban Myth kitchen, with stone composite work surfaces and stainless steel Miele appliances, which include an electric oven, microwave, gas hob and a Siemens integrated fridge/freezer, washer/dryer and dishwasher. Other features include under floor heating, wireless intruder alarm system and a central audio system.
Broxbourne is a typically English hamlet of Victorian and Edwardian descent and is centred on the beautiful St Augustine’s church which dates back to 1460. Broxbourne retains its rural feel, with local shops available in the village. High street stores and large department chains can be found in Hertford just six miles away.  
New River Mews is ideally situated for the commuter being approximately 29 minutes to London Liverpool Street, approximately 16 minutes to Hertford and approximately 48 minutes to Cambridge by train. By road, Broxbourne is easily accessed by the M25, M11 and A1.
Prices for a three-bedroom house start from £450,000. Purchasers can also benefit from either stamp duty refund or part exchange. Sales and marketing suite and show homes are open everyday from 10am-5pm. For further information call 01992 465452 or visit  higginshomes.co.uk.

Watford
Harvest Gate is in a central location, close to a choice of supermarkets and just a five-minute drive from The Harlequin, a fantastic shopping environment with 130 outlets.
The area is also home to a leisure park with cinema, bowling and children’s activities, a peaceful common, a selection of golf courses and a sports centre and swimming pool, while the bars and restaurants of Watford offer a vibrant night-life.
Garston Train Station is within walking distance of Harvest Gate, offering a regular service to St Albans Abbey and putting Central London approximately 40 minutes away, while buses run to Watford Junction and Watford High Street. The M1 and M25 are less than ten minutes away from the development.
A range of two-bedroom apartments are currently available from £192,500, three-bedroom homes priced £287,500 and spacious four-bedroom homes at only £299,950.
Visit the Sales Centre, located off Harvest End, Watford and open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am - 5.30pm and Mondays from 10am until 2pm, or call the Sales Executive on 0845 671 1844. Alternatively, visit georgewimpey.co.uk.

Bushey
The Collection comprises 13 one- and two-bedroom apartments and is ideally located just a short distance from Bushey’s high street and all its amenities. Nearby Watford also boasts a full range of high street stores, bars and restaurants.
The development’s location is also ideal for commuters, with access to the M1 and M25 motorways. Bushey railway station is within easy reach for train services to London Euston in just 20 minutes. Heathrow airport is approximately 13 miles away.
Prices for the apartments start at £249,950.
For further information call 0845 260 0154.  

Stevenage
Intro Homes is bringing a collection of homes to Stevenage that offers first time buyers the chance to get on the property ladder in the most sought after Old Town area.
Vincent Place is the transformation of the former B&Q site, located towards the southern end of the prestigious old town high street, into a collection of 109 one- and two-bedroom apartments.  Stevenage Old Town has a combination of history and character with a buzzing and vibrant high street that boasts both contemporary and traditional shopping facilities, along with historic buildings, coaching inns, wine bars, pubs and restaurants.
The development is situated just minutes from Stevenage Railway Station. A direct train to London King’s Cross takes only 23 minutes.
Prices currently start from £169,995 with the first completions planned for late 2008/early 2009. Contact either the selling agent, Putterills on 01462 453195 or Intro Homes on 0800 169 6679. Alternatively visit introhomes.co.uk.

Bushey
Finch Lane comprises one and two-bedroom apartments with secure underground parking.
Providing well-proportioned accommodation and a choice of layouts, the development exudes quality and convenience in terms of its location and internal specification. Each apartment benefits from a spacious lounge and fully fitted kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances including fan assisted oven, dishwasher, fridge/freezer and washer dryer.
Bathrooms feature classic white sanitaryware, chrome Grohe taps, fully tiled bath and shower area plus matching floor tiles. The bedrooms, meanwhile, benefit from fitted wardrobes to maximise storage space.
Externally, the mature gardens have been attractively landscaped to create an ideal setting, while a sophisticated video entryphone system and smoke detectors provide added security and peace of mind.
Bushey provides a diverse selection of shops, high street chains, restaurants and bars, while the surrounding area boasts several golf courses, green-belt countryside and leisure facilities. For an even wider choice of shops and entertainment, Watford is also close by with its renowned Harlequin Shopping Centre.
The development is within easy reach of the M1 motorway as well as Bushey train station, with frequent services into London Euston. Alternatively, Stanmore’s Jubilee Line tube station provides the nearest tube link into Central London.  
One-bedroom apartments are priced from £210,000, two-bedroom properties start from £305,000. Please contact Preston Bennett New Homes on 020 8954 8626 or visit prestonbennett.co.uk.

Hitchin
Shanly Homes has just released Walsworth Mews, a new gated development of 11 two- and four-bedroom houses, two one-bedroom apartments and one two-bedroom apartment.
Homes all have fine quality, contemporary fitted kitchen units with square edge laminate work tops and upstands, stainless steel double ovens, gas hobs and extractor hoods. Integrated fridge/freezers and washer/dryers are also standard.  
All homes will be supplied with green electricity, sourced from a wide range of renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, small scale hydro, bio-mass and organic waste material. High efficiency double glazing will reduce the heat needed and energy efficient appliances will also be fitted as standard. Additional environmental features include dual flush 6/4L WC systems, energy efficient light fittings, bird boxes and water butts for each garden.These technologies will also help limit CO2 emissions.                                                                                                                   
Prices at this development start from £169,950.
For more information contact the sales agents Putterills on 01462 632222 or visit the website at shanlyhomes.com.