Cristina Diaconu
Women in Property Announces New North West Chair

Women in Property Announces New North West Chair

Women in Property has announced its incoming North West Chair for 2021/22. Eleanor takes the role as regional head of the property and construction industry influencer and networking organisation from 1 March, for one year. Eleanor who has been a member of Women in Property for five years, is a

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Phase 2 of Thames Riverside Development Launches

Phase 2 of Thames Riverside Development Launches

The second phase of development at Cable Wharf, a 598-home riverside development on the banks of the Thames at Northfleet, has been launched with 180 apartments and houses available. National housebuilder, Keepmoat Homes, is regenerating the area of Northfleet and is delivering mix tenure new homes, comprising of houses and

Read More »
Raithwaite Village Elevates Holiday Home Living

Raithwaite Village Elevates Holiday Home Living

Planning to elevate holiday home living to the highest level, Raithwaite Village by Maritime Capital is a completely unique luxury holiday home development, spread across 98 acres of North Yorkshire’s wild and dramatic coastline. The perfect holiday home investment, whether to buy or to let, Raithwaite Village comprises an exclusive collection

Read More »

Why to use a handyman for home renovations

Are you looking to revamp your home and thinking about making it one big DIY project? Are you worried that you may not be able to get everything done to your liking and standard? The prospect of renovating your home can be new, fun, and exciting, especially if it’s something

Read More »
Panattoni Delivering Its Second Crewe Development

Panattoni Delivering Its Second Crewe Development

Panattoni, the largest industrial developer in Europe, is underway with its second speculative development at Crewe set for completion in Autumn 2021. Winvic Construction have been appointed main contractor to develop the 305,000 sq ft speculative unit and will be starting works on site imminently. Panattoni’s first development on the

Read More »
Indigo Group Achieves FCSA Accreditation

Indigo Group Achieves FCSA Accreditation

Construction business solutions company, Indigo Group, has passed a meticulous review of its services to achieve its Freelance and Contractor Services Association (FCSA) Accreditation for umbrella employment and CIS/self-employed payroll services. The FCSA is the UK’s leading membership organisation that works to raise standards in the temporary labour market by

Read More »
Changes to Make the Industry More Sustainable

Changes to Make the Industry More Sustainable

As more construction firms pledge to be net-zero by 2050, Richard Robertson, business development director at Cadline, provider of MTWO Complete Construction Cloud, is calling on businesses to utilise technology to create more sustainable workforces. “It is now an expectation, not just an attractive gesture, for design briefs to incorporate

Read More »
Keepmoat Homes Makes New Appointment

Keepmoat Homes Makes New Appointment

John Maddams has been appointed as Senior Land & Partnerships Manager by Keepmoat to bolster its South Midlands region. John is bringing with him 16 years’ experience in the property industry, having previously headed a FTSE 250 residential developer where he contracted upon £300m (GDV) of new land opportunities. His

Read More »
Make Your Outside Space More Useable

Make Your Outside Space More Useable

With the unpredictable weather and ever-changing lockdown rules, ensuring your outdoor space is functional and welcoming when you need it most has never been more important. Homeowners looking to make the most of their outdoor space, can look to the experts for guidance on easy to integrate features that will

Read More »
Nottingham to Become a Hot Spot for Homebuyers

Nottingham to Become a Hot Spot for Homebuyers

Commuters looking to relocate from London and other major cities could be considering Nottingham as a go-to location due to its low house prices and good travel links, according to property experts. From its central location in the country and extensive transport links, to its two universities, rich history and

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Latest Issue
Issue 334 : Nov 2025

Cristina Diaconu

Women in Property Announces New North West Chair

Women in Property Announces New North West Chair

Women in Property has announced its incoming North West Chair for 2021/22. Eleanor takes the role as regional head of the property and construction industry influencer and networking organisation from 1 March, for one year. Eleanor who has been a member of Women in Property for five years, is a Senior Land & Partnerships Manager at MCI Developments, based in Wigan where she specialises in acquiring land opportunities for affordable housing developments with Registered Providers across the North West. The organisation sees the year ahead as presenting a great opportunity for individuals and businesses to build on the understanding, compassion and support evidenced in the industry over the past twelve tumultuous months. “As I take up the role of North West Chair of Women in Property for 2021 it seems likely that, with the vaccine rollout, our industry and our organisation will start to emerge from the lockdown we were in for most of 2020” said Eleanor. “Property and construction will be at the forefront of the economic recovery and there will be tremendous opportunities for our members to contribute to that revival. I look forward to Women in Property returning to in-person meetings and events and continuing to promote the importance of inclusion and diversity in our sector, with more women taking active roles and participating as we rebuild, post-pandemic. My five years as a member of Women in Property has allowed me to grow my network, and the organisation has increased its influence both locally and nationally. I look forward to working with my Committee in growing our membership as more women join the industry, looking to build their contacts with friendly support from fellow North West professionals.” “It’s great to see Eleanor take on the position as North West Chair at Women in Property. As a company, we’re keen to support more women into the industry and Eleanor’s new role is a testament to the crucial work she plays at MCI Developments. I wish Eleanor the best of luck for the coming year and I’m positive she will instigate change in the industry and will be an inspiration for other women looking for a career in construction,” commented Alex Wood, Regional Managing Director at MCI Developments. Since the pandemic started early in 2020, Women in Property has continued to support members, transferring CPD, informal events and mentoring online. The North West branch has run over 30 webinars, ranging from industry related subjects, personal development, CPD and social and wellbeing events, all of which are available across the national platform. Eleanor will hold the role of North West Chair until 28th February 2022.

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Phase 2 of Thames Riverside Development Launches

Phase 2 of Thames Riverside Development Launches

The second phase of development at Cable Wharf, a 598-home riverside development on the banks of the Thames at Northfleet, has been launched with 180 apartments and houses available. National housebuilder, Keepmoat Homes, is regenerating the area of Northfleet and is delivering mix tenure new homes, comprising of houses and apartments, available for sale on the open market, via shared ownership as well as affordable rent. As part of Ebbsfleet Garden City, the £175 million development will transform the former cabling factories site into a thriving, tree-lined riverside community which, as well as homes, will include commercial spaces, new transport links and a primary school. Situated a short distance from the high-speed train connections at Ebbsfleet International railway station, commuters can be in St Pancras within 17 minutes or Paris in under 4 hours. Following the completion of phase one which consisted of 139 new homes, of which 120 homes will be available for Affordable Housing and Shared Ownership, the development has now entered its second phase of construction and will see 68 one- and two- bed apartments and 112 two-, three-, and four- bedroom houses being built, as well as a brand-new sales office. “We’re excited to be starting the second phase of construction at Cable Wharf. This significant regeneration project will not only deliver almost 600 much-needed new homes to the area, but every aspect of Cable Wharf including the communal areas, riverside promenade and new transport links, has been designed to fulfil the needs of this brand-new community. Such has been the interest in the development that, following the launch of our marketing suite and show home last year, we have welcomed our first homeowners to Cable Wharf and are excited unveil the second phase comprising 180 new homes,” said Mick O’Farrell, Regional Managing Director at Keepmoat Homes. As part of the Ebbsfleet Garden City project, which aims to transform the area and deliver 15,000 new homes, Cable Wharf is set within a unique backdrop of ancient chalk cliffs overlooking the River Thames.

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Raithwaite Village Elevates Holiday Home Living

Raithwaite Village Elevates Holiday Home Living

Planning to elevate holiday home living to the highest level, Raithwaite Village by Maritime Capital is a completely unique luxury holiday home development, spread across 98 acres of North Yorkshire’s wild and dramatic coastline. The perfect holiday home investment, whether to buy or to let, Raithwaite Village comprises an exclusive collection of sustainable lodges, cottages and coastal villas in the sought-after area of Sandsend, North Yorkshire.  “Our vision is to build properties in which to create memories with loved ones, relax, and enjoy the slower pace of life surrounded by nature. Our sustainable designs are made to last, so that properties can be passed down through the generations, in turn creating a new historic village within its own right,” said Toby Hunter CEO of Maritime Capital.  The development is located in Sandsend, known for its wide sandy beach that is perfect for families and surfers alike. Sandsend is also the gateway to so many of Yorkshire’s most beautiful sites, from the North York Moors and The Yorkshire Dales providing a range of thrilling adventures such as hiking and biking as well as culture in the nearby seaside town of Whitby, with its bustling quayside, pretty fishermen’s cottages and ruined abbey. In addition some of Yorkshire’s finest market towns including Malton and Helmsley as well as the historic city of York, are all just under an hour’s drive away. In total planning has been approved for 190-second homes, which will be developed in four phases and completed over a four-year period. This landmark development will also include a village square that will be the bustling heart of the development, hosting Parisian style cafés, artisan shops, a bakery, and galleries that showcase the very best of Yorkshire artistic talent. The first phase commences in January 2021, unveiling three property types – Coastal Villas, Lodges and Cottages, each with their own distinctive architectural style. There is a property to suit all design tastes, from the three contemporary Coastal Villas set back, offering unparalleled views of the coastline whilst simultaneously blending seamlessly into the landscape, to the four woodland lodges, built on stilts in order to carefully preserve the land. Plus 14 individual cottages, built in traditional Yorkshire stone that are located close to both the Raithwaite Village square and with easy access to Sandsend beach.  Designed by the esteemed Holder Mathias Architects and the interiors are by leading British design experts and interiors retailer Neptune. Each property bought will come with a highly desirable Neptune kitchen, bathroom vanity unit and interiors scheme inspired by the developments unique location which draws on the colours and textures of the beach, coast and moors. As an added bonus, every property sale also includes a £10,000 Neptune voucher to spend on additional decoration and furnishings, to kick-start kitting out your holiday home in style. Custom design and build scope is available including movement of walls and a choice of one of three Neptune kitchen designs plus a beach, moor or coast interior design scheme. The level of customisation for buyers is dependent on what stage of the build, that their property is at, at the point of purchase.  Sustainability as well as respecting and protecting the environment is at the heart of the ethos behind the design and build of Raithwaite Village. Maritime Capital has partnered with construction consultants to establish robust, transparent sustainability measures that are in place and monitored throughout the construction process, ensuring owners and investors know they are buying a genuinely environmentally-friendly property which, with its beautiful natural surroundings, will stand the test of time for generations to come. Sustainable elements will include green roofs for biodiversity, construction using sustainably sourced materials, and use of renewable energies. Raithwaite Village’s elegant lodges, cottages and villas are set within a vast estate, which also includes Raithwaite Sandsend, a chic yet relaxed coastal hotel. Facilities at Raithwaite Sandsend include a spa and swimming pool, as well as surfing, stand-up paddle boarding and beach yoga. The hotel can also organise boat excursions to catch your own lobster for dinner as well as offer the opportunity to spot local sea life including seals and dolphins. The hotel is also home to an outstanding brasserie serving delicious dishes made with fresh, locally sourced produce as well as a new bar.  In addition Raithwaite Village’s dedicated on-site Concierge team will help owners look after their property and assist them with as much or as little as they need. From property maintenance and top-level housekeeping, including everything from a ‘chocolate-on-pillow’ turn down service to arranging for a ‘Deliveroo style meal’ from the Brasserie at Raithwaite Sandsend to be delivered straight to your door.  An in-house team of experts is on hand to advise throughout the buying process, while owners have a range of options to help them let, manage and maintain their properties. Investing in a relaxing rural, coastal lifestyle couldn’t be easier.

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Why to use a handyman for home renovations

Are you looking to revamp your home and thinking about making it one big DIY project? Are you worried that you may not be able to get everything done to your liking and standard? The prospect of renovating your home can be new, fun, and exciting, especially if it’s something you have never done before or if your house is starting to look a little bit outdated and needing to be spruced up a bit. While some of the projects in a home renovation are easy enough to do yourself, others projects may be far beyond your skills. It is important that you don’t just take it upon yourself to do these, but rather inquire the help of a skilled and well-practiced handyman. If you’re looking for a great handyman in Wimbledon, BBOJ is known to have some of the best. If you are still unsure about whether it’s the right decision or not, here are a few reasons why you should be using a handyman for your next home renovation. Can save you money Sure, some projects may be simple enough to do by yourself, like hanging up picture or maybe even replacing cupboard doors. You might think that some of the bigger tasks are going to be quite easy too, like tiling, painting, or ceiling work. Quite the opposite, however, as they can tend to be quite difficult and tedious tasks to complete. Making a mistake when it comes to home renovations is nothing new, and this is exactly why handymen are around. They are skilled in their profession and will, most of the time, actually save you more money than doing it by yourself. Most handymen can get products at a business rate which you would not be able to get, and not to mention, if you make a mistake or mess something up, you will probably end up spending more money than you would on a handyman, just trying to fix your mistake. Tools and experience When renovating your house, there will be several different kinds of projects to work on. This means that you will also need all the tools available to you in order to finish all of these projects. But are you familiar with all of these tools? Most handymen will already have access to these them along with the knowledge on how to use them efficiently and correctly. On top of this, handymen typically have a lot of experience from other previous jobs and will be able to guide you in the right direction as to whether your idea is a good one or a bad one. They can even give you tips on what you should be doing on seemingly daunting tasks, to gauge whether a project is even possible. Can assist with many things A handyman can typically do at least 5 to 6 different kinds of jobs around the house and are not normally restricted to one kind of thigns like plumbing, electrical work, or even flooring. This means they that have a lot of experience from previous jobs in various different fields and have both technical knowledge along with practical skill. They are the jack of all trades! Normal home renovations mostly include, repairing ceiling and roofs, changing the flooring such as tiles or carpeting, safety in and around the house, all the electrical work, drain repairs, plumbing installation and fixing, and even just remodelling to name a few. Most handymen will be able to do at least a few of these each. Additionally, when large amounts of debris or waste are involved in these projects, services like montgomery dumpster rental can assist with efficient waste management, making the cleanup process easier for homeowners. Most handymen will be able to do at least a few of these tasks each. Licensed Being a handyman may seem like a simple and easy job but what most people see is that majority of handymen need to have some kind of certification and licence to be allowed to work on other people’s houses and property. This is typically with people working on the electrical work in your house and is purely for your safety as well as their own. On top of that, certain project also require licenses, like if you are adding an extension to your house or building higher. Normally you would have to get this license yourself but a good handyman would be able to sort it out for you for a price. Don’t be a hero and try to do everything yourself, it might just be worth it in the end to get someone to help you.

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Panattoni Delivering Its Second Crewe Development

Panattoni Delivering Its Second Crewe Development

Panattoni, the largest industrial developer in Europe, is underway with its second speculative development at Crewe set for completion in Autumn 2021. Winvic Construction have been appointed main contractor to develop the 305,000 sq ft speculative unit and will be starting works on site imminently. Panattoni’s first development on the Park, a 240,000 sq ft speculatively developed warehouse, was let to NWF Group Plc last year for a 12-year term. Once built, the site is expected to provide around 300 full time equivalent (FTE) jobs, in addition there will be over 70 during the construction phase. The development will add £3 million each year into Crewe’s local economy. Crewe 305 will be one of the biggest speculatively developed building in the town for over a decade. It will be built to BREEAM rating of ‘Very Good’ and an EPC rating of ‘A’, along with sustainability features such as low energy office lighting and 15% roof lights. It will also have 15m clear internal height, 27 dock doors, five level access doors and a 50m yard with parking for 49 HGVs. It will also have 13,864 sq ft of office space and parking for 213 cars and up to 1.5 MVA of power. Crewe Commercial Park is a significant and established logistics development situated on the A500 dual carriage way, just five minutes’ drive to junction 16 of the M6. The West Coast Mainline runs alongside the site as it approaches Crewe station. Earlier this month, it was confirmed that HS2 will extend to Crewe, transforming connectivity in the region. “After the success of Crewe240, we are delighted to be back on site in Crewe and it is exciting to see construction underway again. This is a well-established logistics location at one of the region’s most sought-after warehousing and distribution centres,” said Dan Burn, Panattoni Development Director. Legat Owen, Burbage Realty and CBRE are the letting agents on the scheme.

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Indigo Group Achieves FCSA Accreditation

Indigo Group Achieves FCSA Accreditation

Construction business solutions company, Indigo Group, has passed a meticulous review of its services to achieve its Freelance and Contractor Services Association (FCSA) Accreditation for umbrella employment and CIS/self-employed payroll services. The FCSA is the UK’s leading membership organisation that works to raise standards in the temporary labour market by promoting supply chain compliance. To be a fully accredited member, the company had to have its business and financial stability assessed, as well as demonstrating that it complies with the FCSA’s strict codes of compliance – which are some of the most stringent in the industry. The accreditation is reviewed annually to ensure continued compliance and standards. “Achieving this accreditation is a testament to the hard work and dedication that the team here at Indigo Group puts into their work. It was a stringent and in-depth assessment process, and we are over the moon to have passed with flying colours. This is a significant milestone for us a business, as it reaffirms our commitment to our clients as a trusted partner who works to the highest standards in the industry,” commented Ian Cole-Wilkins, CEO of Indigo Group, on the Accreditation award. Gaining this accreditation demonstrates to clients and contractors that Indigo Group is a company that operates the highest industry standards for the protection and benefit of the employment supply chain. “It is fantastic news that The Indigo Group has been able to meet the extremely high standards required to become a fully Accredited Member of the FCSA. It is no mean feat passing our rigorous assessment process. The Indigo Group has proven itself to be a fully compliant business, operating to the gold standard demanded of FCSA member companies and I look forward to continuing working with Ian and his management team to raise standards in our sector,” added Phil Pluck, the FCSA’s Chief Executive. Established in 2007, the Indigo Group is a leading provider of connected and technology-led supply chain assurance solutions. Its services to the sector include digital onboarding, compliance solutions, commercial contracting, outsourced payroll and professional employment solutions. Indigo’s range of services helps its customers and clients meet the commercial, legislative and compliance challenges of an ever-changing business environment.

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Changes to Make the Industry More Sustainable

Changes to Make the Industry More Sustainable

As more construction firms pledge to be net-zero by 2050, Richard Robertson, business development director at Cadline, provider of MTWO Complete Construction Cloud, is calling on businesses to utilise technology to create more sustainable workforces. “It is now an expectation, not just an attractive gesture, for design briefs to incorporate some form of green commitment. Aiming to abolish carbon emissions may seem an ambitious target, but this is mainly down to not having the skills and technology available. Technology is at the forefront of driving change as it directly enables organisations to simulate and predict project costs, times and emissions – ultimately creating more sustainable workforces,” he said. Richard states that more businesses should use technology to eliminate waste, reduce costs, invest in more sustainable materials and streamline workflow. Use data to eliminate waste: Poor project planning can lead to over-estimations of materials required, which are then wasted. This is both costly to businesses and detrimental to the environment, if they’re unable to be reused elsewhere. Although construction makes up 13% of our global GDP it also accounts for 40% of emissions worldwide. By streamlining communications and processes among all stakeholders involved, teams can collaborate better to be more efficient and eliminate waste, ultimately reducing their carbon emissions. Reduce costs to invest in sustainable materials: Despite being a main component of construction, concrete is in fact one of the least sustainable materials, so it is vital it isn’t used unnecessarily in projects. Through careful, digital planning of projects, it is easier to make quick adjustments to designs and internal systems. This can minimise the use of resources and utilise spending, so businesses can access and invest in sustainable materials to make buildings more environmentally friendly. Studies have found that ‘green’ buildings can be instrumental in minimising pollution and its impact on our health. Virtual visits: Sustainability isn’t just limited to the construction of buildings and extends to individual employees’ carbon footprint. By working collaboratively and more holistically, we can deliver huge changes. Technology allows us to view project sites virtually and remotely and progress can now be uploaded and viewed in real-time, saving the time and cost of sending an inspector to visit a site. If all construction firms adopted this method, it would significantly reduce the amount of travel undertaken. Similarly, employees’ time is freed up and can be allocated to other tasks, streamlining workflow and saving cost on potential additional hires needed. At least a third of our population is still sceptical about climate change, but the worst action our industry could take is nothing.

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Keepmoat Homes Makes New Appointment

Keepmoat Homes Makes New Appointment

John Maddams has been appointed as Senior Land & Partnerships Manager by Keepmoat to bolster its South Midlands region. John is bringing with him 16 years’ experience in the property industry, having previously headed a FTSE 250 residential developer where he contracted upon £300m (GDV) of new land opportunities. His primary focus at Keepmoat Homes will be to bring forward new land opportunities and forge strategies to create the best possible scenario for the available sites across the South Midlands region. “We’re delighted to welcome John to our team. John’s proven track record of success and proactive approach to land acquisitions will stand him in good stead to enhance the region to secure more development opportunities and establish new beginnings and partnerships that benefits all parties, to create flourishing communities in the South Midlands,” said Mick O’Farrell, Regional Managing Director at Keepmoat Homes. “As a homebuilder, we are always looking for ways to strengthen our presence in the area and with John’s experience and knowledge, we’re confident he will be an asset to the team and contribute to the regions ambitious growth plans.” The appointment comes after the relocation of the regional office from their current premises in Luton to Northampton. The move marks another positive step for the developer’s ambitious growth plans in the South Midlands which will complete in Spring 2021. “I am absolutely delighted to be joining Keepmoat Homes during this important period of growth. I can already see we have an excellent team in place, and I am looking forward enhance the region and bring forward a number of key opportunities across our area of operation,” added John Maddams, Senior Land & Partnerships Manager at Keepmoat Homes.

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Make Your Outside Space More Useable

Make Your Outside Space More Useable

With the unpredictable weather and ever-changing lockdown rules, ensuring your outdoor space is functional and welcoming when you need it most has never been more important. Homeowners looking to make the most of their outdoor space, can look to the experts for guidance on easy to integrate features that will take their outside space – be it a garden, terrace or balcony – to the next level, and all in time for when we can invite friends and family around again. Research shows that being outside improves your mood and reduces stress*, so when things are out of our control, relaxing in your own outside space is unbeatable. “Since the start of the pandemic and for the majority of people, gardens and balconies have become the only accessible outdoor space, so ensuring it maximises its potential is key. Simple, contemporary modifications can enable homeowners to create a space they love and that they want to spend time in, and are always a good investment in terms of maintaining or increasing the value of their property. Plus, showing it off always feels good once we can entertain again. We’ve outlined our tips on how to make outside space work best – even in an unpredictable Britain,” commented David Hough from home improvement specialists, SMART Balustrades. Weather adaptability Whilst we can’t predict the weather, what we can say is Britain’s weather is diverse, from downpour one day to scorching heat the next. Installing glass balustrades to your patio or balcony area will create a windbreak, keeping you warmer against the spring and autumn breeze, whilst still allowing natural light to shine through. A removable canopy will ensure that you can be protected from the wetter weather, but also allow you to enjoy the sun when it’s out. A mix of green and landscaped space For garden owners, fitting a patio gives you a new area to enjoy your outside space which is much steadier for garden furniture and puts you less at risk of getting muddy. Having both a patio and garden area provides a stylish and modern upgrade, whilst still having nature to enjoy. For those with limited or no existing greenspace such as balcony and terrace owners, you can introduce greenery through potted plants on the floor or baskets attached to the balustrades, allowing those without the option of a garden to enjoy nature. Accessibility for all the family Ensuring that your outdoor space is safe and useable for all the family will allow it to be used it much more often. Installing handrails to steps and level changes, and enclosing your decking with secure balustrades are practical measures to reduce the chances of tripping and causing injury. Lighting around your garden will also improve its accessibility for the darker days and nights. The patio area can often be slippery when wet, and hard structures can hurt when banged into, so installing lighting to this area is recommend. Festoon and string lights are popular options for both balcony and garden owners, as they can be easily hung from surrounding structures. Suitable seating areas Sitting outdoors is the ultimate way to enjoy the fresh air, so if homeowners have the space, having a dedicated seating area brings a great focus point to a garden. When the rules permit, we will be able to mix households again, so having suitable seating to host guests will allow you enjoy the great outdoors more with friends. Where possible, choose non-fixed outdoor seating – so it can be moved at leisure to create different spaces, and packed away when not in use for those with smaller outdoor spaces such as balconies.

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Nottingham to Become a Hot Spot for Homebuyers

Nottingham to Become a Hot Spot for Homebuyers

Commuters looking to relocate from London and other major cities could be considering Nottingham as a go-to location due to its low house prices and good travel links, according to property experts. From its central location in the country and extensive transport links, to its two universities, rich history and burgeoning riverside communities, Nottingham could be one of the most desirable hot spots for home buying, with the average house price in the city now £210,977*. In recent years, the city has seen an influx in London dwellers relocating from the capital, and with the COVID-19 pandemic and the major shift to working from home, the trend of moving away from London has accelerated, with many companies giving up office overheads altogether – a change which has led to London workers having less reason to pay bigger price tags for properties in the capital, prompting a desire to live in more affordable areas. The increase in people moving from London to Nottingham was first highlighted back in 2018, when ONS data showed that there had been an increase in Londoners migrating to the city, in a movement which marked the first of its kind in five years. Many local experts including the chief executive of Invest in Nottingham put the influx of people from the capital down to the city’s attractive affordable house prices and lower cost of living**, and property experts at FHP Living have seen a 23% increase in enquiries from prospective buyers interested in moving from London to Nottingham this year. According to new research from Totaljobs, which includes a combined analysis of ONS data*, COVID-19 has accelerated the trend of migration from the UK capital, with as many as 1.6m Londoners (26%) working outside of the city during lockdown. The research revealed that the number of workers moving away from London has been increasing in recent years – and showed that for every nine adults moving to the capital, 10 were moving out. Research carried out by PwC also suggests that London’s population could fall this year, which would be the first time the capital has seen a decrease this century. In its latest UK Economic Outlook report, the professional services firm highlights how many workers chose to leave London during the first UK lockdown to live with family members, and have since decided to make the move more permanent. The report also cites a survey conducted by the London Assembly in August last year, in which 4.5% of the 450 Londoners polled – the equivalent of 416,000 city residents of the total population – said that they would move out of the capital within the next twelve months*. Nottingham has exceptional green credentials, with city council plans working towards becoming the first carbon neutral city in the country by 2028, and with East Midlands Airport in close proximity and dozens of trains each day to London – the quickest being just one hour 32 minutes, the city provides an excellent location to commute to the capital when needed, as well as other cities to the north and south. Attractions in and around the city are plentiful – with The Peak District, Sherwood Forest and Attenborough Nature Reserve all within easy reach, as well as the world-class Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Holme Pierrepont Country Park and The National Water Sports Centre located close to the River Trent. Nottingham’s riverside area is currently undergoing an extensive regeneration, with several residential developments along the banks of the river under construction – including The Yacht Club; an 81-home, £25million waterfront development situated at the end of Trent Lane, Trent Bridge Quays; a 92-home riverside scheme, which is in the early stages of construction on Meadow Lane and The Waterside Apartments; a recently complete £30m development – offering panoramic views over the River Trent, the city, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground and West Bridgford.

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