As one of the most attractive destinations on the beautiful Costa Blanca it offers a chance at the Mediterranean lifestyle, with beautiful beaches and an inspiring artistic heritage and a relaxed marina where you can spend the hours at peace in the sunshine. It is hard not to fall
Since the 1925 Land Registration Act in the UK, which was replaced by an updated Land Registration Act in 2002, it’s been compulsory to register unregistered property and land. However, according to the HM Land Registry, there is still 14% of land in the UK that remains unregistered or unclaimed.
An England football legend has helped ArtificialGrass.com greet visitors to its display at a major industry event held in Coventry. Former Leicester City and Liverpool star Emile Heskey joined forces with the leading artificial turf company for this year’s National Merchant Buying Society (NMBS) exhibition, which took place at the
Gira, one of the world’s leading full-range suppliers of intelligent system solutions for building management, ‘go green’ for Earth Hour 2019 and commit to 60 minutes of complete darkness… On Saturday 30th March 2019, Gira headquarters in Radevormwald, Germany turned out its lights. From 8:30 to 9:30pm, Gira switched off
Family owned builders merchants, Chandler Building Supplies, has announced its sponsorship of this year’s Seven Port Challenge. The 180 km charity cycling challenge covers seven ports across England and France over four days. A team of six from the builders merchants is taking on the difficult challenge of cycling ‘The
Archaeologists excavating a site in Berkshire have discovered an unusual Underground Monitoring Post (UGMP), dating back to the Cold War. The excavation, undertaken by Wessex Archaeology on behalf of Balfour Beatty as part of the Wokingham Borough Council’s Major Highways Programme, uncovered the post after an anomaly was spotted on
LEADING architects and designers have heralded the mezzanine studies that are a feature at Scotland’s most upmarket new development. Boasting a dramatic view out to the grounds and building of one of the country’s most iconic estates, the studies at The Crescent at Donaldson’s benefit from the sweeping homes’ almost
Charity Reuben’s Retreat has appointed Hadfield-based Building Projects Group Ltd to undertake the next stage in the development of the charity’s forever home. Reuben’s Retreat aims to help families who have children with a life threatening or life limiting illness, or those who have lost a child, offering support in
Given the way the government promotes it and how columnists fret about the plight of Generation Rent—the cohort of young people who may never be able to buy property—you’d think home ownership was a financial golden ticket, along with a path away from beige walls and landlords who object to
Caddick Construction has agreed a partnership with health and wellness provider hero which will see all of its 140 employees benefit from a tailored health and wellbeing programme. The bespoke wellbeing package covers both mental and physical health and includes one-to-one health checks and screenings, wellbeing training for all direct
As one of the most attractive destinations on the beautiful Costa Blanca it offers a chance at the Mediterranean lifestyle, with beautiful beaches and an inspiring artistic heritage and a relaxed marina where you can spend the hours at peace in the sunshine. It is hard not to fall in love with Denia the first time you see it. Denia is situated a little over an hour from Alicante airport, and is quickly becoming the place for tourists and those looking to make their stay much more permanent. So many choose to relocate here from within and outside Spain, and although tourists are also drawn here, somehow Denia has retained much of its charm and elegance, more so than close neighbour Benidorm. There are a wide range of houses for sale in Denia to suit all needs and preferences for those who would prefer a life in the sun. Denia has a lot to offer those looking for a better way of life Denia is a beautiful modern city, but it also has all the history and culture of a spanish coastal town. It is impossible to miss the fortress on top of the hill, the Castle of Denia. It plays host to many cultural events that you can enjoy, all while taking in the wonderful views. Heading into the town you will see a fascinating mix of old and new, with elegant buildings and whitewashed fisherman’s houses in the typical Spanish style. It is easy to imagine years gone by in the historic centre. And of course there are the wonderful beaches, the town is lucky enough to have almost 15km of rocky coves and long sandy beaches. There is plenty to do here, from snorkelling and watersports to simply relaxing and taking in the sun and sound of the ocean. The marina is also very active and what better way to spend an afternoon that to rent a boat and explore the coastline or do a little fishing. Of course being on the Mediterranean, the fresh seafood available here is amazing and if you aren’t keen on catching your own dinner you can always head to the fish market to pick up the day’s catch. There many fresh food markets here offering a chance to try the local gastronomy. There are plenty of other shopping opportunities too, with local craft shops and boutiques. There are also many local restaurants and cafes where you can sit out on the terrace and enjoy traditional local dishes in the sunshine with a well earned glass of wine or two. With so much to see and do, it is for good reason people fall in love with Denia. It also makes a great base for exploring more of the Costa Blanca or the stunning mountains and hills of the nearby countryside. Choose your perfect new home, or build one There are some stunning houses and apartments available to buy in Denia. Talking to the Peretó Group for Houses in Denia is a great start to the adventure. Denia is a cosmopolitan place, and it is well worth having an expert on hand who knows the city inside and out and how to find the right house, villa or apartment while making the most of the available budget. Navigating a house purchase in a new country in a new language can be daunting but with the right support, and with excellent English speakers available Peretó Group can make the whole process much easier. Of course the other option they can also help with is building your own dream home. From the purchase of the plot to development of plans and assistance with the construction process they are there to make sure it is the best possible experience ready for you to start your new life in the home of your dreams.
Since the 1925 Land Registration Act in the UK, which was replaced by an updated Land Registration Act in 2002, it’s been compulsory to register unregistered property and land. However, according to the HM Land Registry, there is still 14% of land in the UK that remains unregistered or unclaimed. Along with complying with the law, there are numerous benefits to registering land. But, firstly, let’s discuss how you go through the process of registering unregistered land in the first place. What is an unregistered property? This could be land or a building such as a house, garage or even something as small as a shed. Basically, it’s any property that is legally owned but is yet to be registered with the Land Registry in the true owner’s name. The owner will usually have Title Deeds that explain how they came to own the property. But simply having these Title Deeds doesn’t mean the property is registered, so to reap the benefits of having a registered property and to protect it from encroachment by others, it’s advised that you register the land as soon as you can. The two ways of registering unregistered property There are two types of registration, compulsory and voluntary. Here’s what you need to know about both. Compulsory registration Since 1925, a property that is ‘dealt with’ has the change of ownership officially registered and the new owner will receive a Title Register and Title Plan to confirm their ownership of the property. But what does ‘dealt with’ actually mean? It means that some activity has happened with the property that will trigger the compulsory registration. Some of these activities are as follows: A new lease of 7 years or over is granted. The first legal mortgage on an unregistered property is granted. A Freehold Estate is transferred in a sale of purchase. A Leasehold Estate is transferred with over 7 years remaining (this is known as assignment). In all these cases, it’s a legal requirement for the land or property to be compulsorily registered. You can do this by registering online with the HM Land Registry Voluntary registration You don’t have to wait for the property to become ‘dealt with’ in order to register it. You can simply make a voluntary first registration application in the same place where you would compulsory register it. While you can do this yourself, you can also instruct a land registry solicitor to do it if you want to make sure everything is done smoothly and legally. The solicitor can take your Title Deeds to find out how you came to own the property and submit an application to the Land Registry on your behalf, passing a copy of the Title Register onto you.
An England football legend has helped ArtificialGrass.com greet visitors to its display at a major industry event held in Coventry. Former Leicester City and Liverpool star Emile Heskey joined forces with the leading artificial turf company for this year’s National Merchant Buying Society (NMBS) exhibition, which took place at the Ricoh Arena. The ex-striker was on hand to meet and greet, as well as sign footballs for NMBS members visiting ArtificialGrass.com’s stand. More than 280 exhibitors and 850 delegates came together for the annually-held trade show, which is the largest buying and selling event for independent builders, as well as timber, roofing, plumbing and heating merchants. Delegates were also given the chance to speak to the firm’s experienced team of grass experts, who offered their advice and tips on everything from how to install artificial grass to promoting new products in the range, as well as exclusive deals on the day. Andy Driver, Sales and Marketing Director for ArtificialGrass.com, said: “It was fantastic to join industry colleagues at the NMBS exhibition once again this year. “The event proved to be a huge success for us. We had lots of positive discussions and our team are excited to help grow the landscaping businesses for our merchant base. “Having Emile join us on our stand was a great honour and encouraged lots of people to come along and say hello for photographs and autographs. “ArtificialGrass.com has established itself as the go-to brand for the independent builders’ merchants, thanks to our ongoing investment in product development and our comprehensive service and training packages that we are able to offer.” For more information, go to www.artificialgrass.com or call 0843 224 7878. You can also follow ArtificialGrass.com on Linked In www.linkedin.com/company/artificialgrass and Facebook or Twitter @merchantgrass.
Gira, one of the world’s leading full-range suppliers of intelligent system solutions for building management, ‘go green’ for Earth Hour 2019 and commit to 60 minutes of complete darkness… On Saturday 30th March 2019, Gira headquarters in Radevormwald, Germany turned out its lights. From 8:30 to 9:30pm, Gira switched off its entire lighting system within the new Production, Development & Logistics center for one hour in a bid to help save the planet and participate in this year’s Earth Day. Not stopping there, Gira also switched off the four illuminated logos which adorn the facade of its high-bay warehouse to completely immerse itself in complete darkness for 60 minutes. For the first time, Gira played a part in ‘Earth Hour’: a global community action which is organized by the international nature and environmental organization World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). Since 2007, participants around the world come together and power down lighting in the workplace for the purpose of ‘Earth Hour’. According to the WWF, the campaign should “motivate as many people around the globe as possible to live and act more environmentally friendly – far beyond the 60 minutes.” In 2018, results show that over 180 countries took part in Western Europe, made-up of the general public, entire communities, businesses and institutions. Last year saw Germany positively step up and support Earth Day with Cologne Cathedral, Hamburg City Hall, an entire skyline of high-rise buildings in downtown Frankfurt and the Town Hall in both Remscheid and Wuppertal-Barmen, all becoming dark for an hour. It is therefore no surprise that ‘Earth Hour’ is now considered one of the world’s largest community actions for environmental and climate protection. What are you doing to help? Earth Hour 2019 – 30th March 2019 Earth Day 2019 – 22nd April 2019
Family owned builders merchants, Chandler Building Supplies, has announced its sponsorship of this year’s Seven Port Challenge. The 180 km charity cycling challenge covers seven ports across England and France over four days. A team of six from the builders merchants is taking on the difficult challenge of cycling ‘The Beast’ – a 6 person tandem – for the first leg of the event from Brighton to Portsmouth on Thursday 2, May. The brave cyclists from the Brighton, Lewes, Ringmer, Petworth, Chertsey and Bookham branches of Chandlers Building Supplies are Jason Austin, Chris Vernon, Ashley Miles, Brian Smith and Stuart Campbell and Paul Hawes. Brian Smith from Chandlers Building Supplies, Brighton, said: “We’ll have to put in a lot of practice on the tandem before May 2. It’s a very tricky bike to master and it is quite heavy too. The guys are all up for it and have committed to hours of practice to master the ‘Beast’. Let’s hope that our six pairs of legs are up to the challenge. We’re all looking forward to it!” This 52 mile ride starts at the i360 in Brighton and the riders will cycle via Chandlers’s Brighton store near Shoreham port and then along to Portsmouth Harbour . Sue McKinney, marketing manager at Chandlers Building Supplies said: “As a family owned building merchants we are always keen to support the local charities in the areas in which we are located. We dedicated the opening of our extended Brighton store last summer to Off the Fence, homeless charity, one of the charities this event is also supporting along with the other Mayor’s Charities to include Rocking Horse, Grace Eyre Foundation and Martlets. “We are delighted to be involved in the Seven Port Challenge and are proud of our team of six who very readily jumping at the opportunity to get involved.” Follow the Chandlers Building Supplies team’s practice on the ‘Beast’ on twitter and Instagram: @ChandlersBS and @chandlersbuilding. To sponsor their efforts visit: www.gofundme.com/SevenPortChallenge <http://www.gofundme.com/SevenPortChallenge> #7PortChallenge The Seven Port Challenge is run by The Brighton & Hove Property Consortium in association with Colin Brace Properties. Chandlers is a privately-owned, independent roofing & builders’ merchant with branches across the South East of England & the Midlands.
Archaeologists excavating a site in Berkshire have discovered an unusual Underground Monitoring Post (UGMP), dating back to the Cold War. The excavation, undertaken by Wessex Archaeology on behalf of Balfour Beatty as part of the Wokingham Borough Council’s Major Highways Programme, uncovered the post after an anomaly was spotted on the site’s preliminary survey results. The structure, part of a national network of 1,563 strategically placed UGMPs, was built for the Royal Observer Corps (ROC) in January 1961, part of preparations for the reporting of radioactive fall-out, should a nuclear strike occur. It is relatively uncommon to uncover the posts in such a way and archaeologists were surprised to discover that the monitoring post presented a further anomaly. “It is a fantastic find, made more unusual by the fact that it was also constructed back-to-front,” explains Wessex Archaeology Senior Research Manager, Dr Bob Clarke, an expert in the field of Cold War Archaeology. “These structures were built by local firms using prescribed blueprints, which in this case was misinterpreted by the builder. We suspected that an underground room may have survived even though the surface features had been demolished in the mid-1970s. It’s an extraordinary find as many of the sites connected with the Cold War are still secret.” This spot in the landscape was used as an above-ground observation post from 1936, and as a UGMP from 1961 until closure in 1968. Within the specially equipped and reinforced underground room, three ROC Observers (all volunteers) would monitor the effects of a nuclear attack on this part of the United Kingdom. Details of the power of the explosion, height above ground and subsequent radiation were reported to the United Kingdom Warning and Monitoring Organisation (UKWMO), who, in turn predicted the results and issuing ‘Fall-Out’ warnings to the rest of the country. The site is located on the route of the Arborfield Cross Relief Road, which is part of the wider Wokingham Borough Council’s Major Highways Programme. Matthew Parkes, Project Manager on the Arborfield Cross Relief Road scheme from Balfour Beatty, who are constructing the road, said: “This historic discovery is yet another example of the great work, skill and insight of archaeologists, as well as the fine planning, attention to detail and brilliant connection and collaboration of the project team. It’s a thought-provoking experience, one which gives us the opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate how times have changed so significantly since the Cold War.” The remains of the structure will be removed prior to the construction of the relief road. In acknowledgement of this historic find and to mark its significance, Wokingham Borough Council and Balfour Beatty are planning to install a memorial stone at a date yet to be confirmed. The proposed memorial stone is to mark the location of the Observation Post, in partnership with local groups, Arborfield Local History Society, ROC Heritage Group and Arborfield and Newland Parish Council.
LEADING architects and designers have heralded the mezzanine studies that are a feature at Scotland’s most upmarket new development. Boasting a dramatic view out to the grounds and building of one of the country’s most iconic estates, the studies at The Crescent at Donaldson’s benefit from the sweeping homes’ almost entirely glass frontage. Featured in both show apartments, a three-bed duplex and two-bed apartment, exactly half (42) of all the homes at the CALA Homes (East) development feature the stand-out studies – made possible by the complex and rare interlocking storey structure. Acclaimed architect Richard Murphy OBE, who led the bold design of the project, said: “These amazing study levels are made possible thanks to the freedom that CALA granted us to create dynamic spaces – with homes across multiple levels and not bound by fixed lateral storeys. “This is rare – and typically only seen in seminal architectural projects and is certainly not associated with residential projects. “This directly enables us to create the double-height living areas that enable the south-facing mezzanine studies at the front of the home – benefiting from the outlook to Donaldson’s and beyond.” Located within the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Crescent is set within 18 acres of grounds that make up the largest new shared garden to be created in the Scottish capital. This creates a feel of a secluded private estate just minutes from Haymarket station, and a mile from the heart of Princes Street. The design of the two show apartments has been inspired not only by the architecture itself but also its outstanding surroundings, led by multi-award-winningexander James Interiors. Speaking specifically about the home studies, Stacey Sibley, Creative Director at Alexander James, said: “It’s not too often you get to work on a project as distinct as this – and the study spaces are a key part of what makes The Crescent so special. “They really are inspiring and I’d personally love to have a space like this to get my head down. “With this in mind, when it came to the show apartment interiors, we really wanted to keep it minimal, with on-trend mid-century furniture. “We also made sure to reflect the gorgeous view with coffee table books on Scottish painters and architects.” Philip Hogg, Sales and Marketing Director for CALA Homes (East), said: “We’re finding that home study spaces are increasingly in demand with our buyers – both with flexible working on the rise and the desire for a quiet space for hobbies or home admin. “The design teams have done an incredible job taking office spaces to ‘that next level’. “Yes, they are jaw-dropping, but ultimately they work on a practical level – as they also allow for copious storage spaces beneath the mezzanine level – and thus the feedback we have had from buyers and visitors to the show homes has been incredible.” Designed by Richard Murphy OBE, the architecture of The Crescent has been directly influenced by Edinburgh’s famous Georgian crescents. Paired with an impressive glass façade are generous flowing spaces, enhanced height living areas and dynamic levels and with each apartment offering a dual-aspect living arrangement, The Crescent uniquely combines classic design with modern style. Prices range from £950,000 to £1,925,000. Visit https://www.cala.co.uk/the-crescent or call 0131 516 2667 for more information.
Charity Reuben’s Retreat has appointed Hadfield-based Building Projects Group Ltd to undertake the next stage in the development of the charity’s forever home. Reuben’s Retreat aims to help families who have children with a life threatening or life limiting illness, or those who have lost a child, offering support in a number of ways. Building Projects Group has now begun work on phases four, five and six at the Retreat. The three phases, which are part of a 10 phase, multi-million pound project, will include a hydro suite, a sensory play and movie room, offices and fully accessible changing facilities. The building work should take around 30 weeks, so is expected to complete in Autumn 2019. The work will involve comprehensive structural works, extensions. full electrical & mechanical upgrades and a high specification construction and fit out. It will also see the creation of a feature glazed link, a new entrance, a fully accessible Hydro Pool including accessible changing facilities and plantroom. The charity bought the old Wood’s Hospital in Glossop in 2014, taking on the massive challenge of renovating it from near dereliction to become Reuben’s Retreat, a place where families can relax, recharge, remember and rebuild. Reuben’s Retreat was set up in memory of 23-month old Reuben, who fell ill while on a family holiday in Devon in August 2012. A trip to A&E revealed a rare and aggressive brain tumour. He sadly never regained consciousness and passed away a week later in his mother’s arms, who pledged his short life wouldn’t be in vain. Nicola Graham, Reuben’s mummy and founder of Reuben’s Retreat, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Building Projects Group – they quickly stood out as a partner who understood what we are about and who would help us achieve our aims. They’re going out and championing our cause for us and asking their key suppliers for their most competitive pricing in order to maximise our money. We need to make sure that every penny that our fundraisers and volunteers raise is put to good use, so it allows us to help even more families. We can’t wait to be able to offer our families the use of the hydro suite and play rooms – it’s a vital and exciting stage of our development.” Adam Bell, managing director at Building Projects Group, said: “On behalf of us all at Building Projects Group we are delighted to have been chosen for this fantastic project. We very much look forward to delivering this wonderful scheme with Nicola and the Reuben’s Retreat Team. I’d also like to extend our thanks to our supply chain partners for their continued support of this wonderful charity.” To find out more information log on to www.reubensretreat.org or follow Reuben’s Retreat on Facebook or Twitter.
Given the way the government promotes it and how columnists fret about the plight of Generation Rent—the cohort of young people who may never be able to buy property—you’d think home ownership was a financial golden ticket, along with a path away from beige walls and landlords who object to cats and framed art. And indeed, in 2018 Santander Mortgage found that owning a home is cheaper than renting in every part of the country. Prospective buyers could save £2,268 a year if they got out of rented accommodation and into their first home. But that’s only part of the equation: first, new buyers also need to accumulate an average deposit of £51,9052 to get on the property ladder. But those who do manage to buy, benefit from average mortgage of £723 across the country, while monthly rents have recently reached an average of £912. In London the contrast is even higher: the average monthly rent is £289 more the average monthly mortgage payment, saving buyers nearly £3,500 a year. But to access those savings, you’ll need to be very patient, or lucky and independently wealthy: first time buyers in the capital need an average deposit of £135,000. Ideally, you’ll also someday recoup those monthly mortgage payments, when you sell up and use the accumulated equity as a deposit for a subsequent property, or as a nest egg for retirement. And with the general trend of property prices in the UK—up and up and up—you should also be able to turn a healthy profit, provided you hold out while the market shivers through Brexit. And indeed, one of the largest complaints of long-term renters is that they’re “paying someone else’s mortgage,” subsidising their landlord’s investment in the property market So mortgage payments are lower than comparable rent and homeownership can deliver a lucrative return, but that’s not the end of the story, or the maths. Buying a home is a significant financial investment, one that requires not just a hefty deposit but also a commitment to an area and to all those pesky repairs a landlord would otherwise handle. And it isn’t the right financial choice for everyone. Before you compare mortgages and start planning your kitchen renovation, let’s take a closer look at the reasons renting might be more cost-effective or simply more practical for you, at least in the short-term: Your life situations are in flux: If you’re young and not yet committed to an occupation, a city, or a partner, it might not make sense to put down roots and purchase property. A compelling job offer in another city, or a breakup, might dramatically alter your life. And if you own a property, picking up the stakes and relocating to another city for that postgraduate degree or new boyfriend isn’t as easy as if you rent. It can take months to find the right buyer for a property and even longer for the purchase to go through and keys and funds to be exchanged. You’re single: Home ownership is much more attainable if you have two incomes and can obtain a joint mortgage. Conversely, be cautious about getting a joint mortgage and purchasing a property with someone you aren’t fully committed to, whether they’re a partner or a friend, as exiting a joint mortgage is tricky and expensive, and often requires the sale of the property, or one owner buying out the other. You don’t have the money for the other expenses of purchasing a home: It’s not just the deposit you need when buying a home. You’ll also need to pay mortgage fees, stamp duty, solicitor’s charges, and valuation fees—costs that themselves well exceed the deposit required for a rented property. These peripheral costs of purchasing a home, and all the time and paperwork it requires, mean it isn’t sensible to buy a home unless you’re planning on living in it for a number of years. You’re not ready to take on the financial and practical commitments of home ownership: If you rent, your landlord is legally obligated to keep the property safe and inhabitable and will arrange and pay for any repairs, ideally promptly. If you’re the homeowner, the buck stops with you. Does your home need a new boiler? That’ll be at least £1,500. New roof? Another £5,000—and you have to find, vet, and wait in for the contractors. If you’re looking to buy a property, you can’t spend all your cash on the deposit: you’ll also need savings to tackle those unexpected expenses and repairs, especially those caused by simple wear and tear and age that won’t be covered by your buildings insurance (which, as property owner, you’ll need, so add that to your tab).
Caddick Construction has agreed a partnership with health and wellness provider hero which will see all of its 140 employees benefit from a tailored health and wellbeing programme. The bespoke wellbeing package covers both mental and physical health and includes one-to-one health checks and screenings, wellbeing training for all direct line managers, mental health first aid training and ongoing workshops throughout 2019. Managing Director Andrew Murray from Caddick Construction said: “Our employees are our greatest asset and we want to ensure they feel valued and supported. We are thrilled to be leading the way when it comes to mental resilience and wellbeing in the workplace – issues which should not and cannot be ignored. As employers we take our responsibility to our team members seriously and want to support them in as many ways possible to ensure they are both healthy and happy inside and outside of work.” He added: “The hero team impressed us with the depth and level of support they provide behind the scenes. I’m confident this project will deliver tangible results for our staff that will enhance and improve the health and wellbeing our employees, whether office based or on site.” Right now, one in six construction workers in the UK is experiencing depression, anxiety or stress. · In the UK men remain three times as likely to take their own lives than women. · The highest suicide rate in the UK was for men aged 45-49. Joe Gaunt, CEO of hero said: “It’s always rewarding to see businesses waking up to the fact they play a large and important part in the health and wellbeing of their team. It’s great to see Caddick Construction leading the way and championing wellness at work in such a bold and committed manner. The ‘Mindset’ programme of events have been purposely designed to offer comprehensive screenings and health checks that cover everything from blood pressure to cholesterol and blood tests too.” “We have been working with Caddick to understand the current ‘state of the workforce’ enabling us to create a bespoke programme, which will deliver results and have immediate and long-term effects. The hero Discovery Report demonstrated clear indicators of specific support around what the Caddick team wanted to see. And, as a result, we were able to design a bespoke and tailored programme perfect for Caddick employees.” 2019 marks hero’s second year and since its launch in May 2018 it has acquired two businesses and established exciting and innovative partnerships with organisations such as Moda, Les Mills, MyZone and Jamie Peacock.