The benefits of new developments

New developments offer both immediate and long-term benefits. By integrating local facilities such as parks, schools, shops, and leisure spaces, developments create self-sustaining communities that encourage social interaction, improve accessibility, and promote wellbeing.

Done correctly, they can also boost local economies, attract investment, and provide key infrastructure like transport links and public services. 

Here are eight standout projects currently on the market, each offering community-focused amenities that add value to their local neighbourhood. 

Brabazon: a place that changes everything for Bristol 

Located in North Bristol, Brabazon is an ambitious development that aims to set a new standard for 21st-century communities. Featuring a brand new live entertainment arena, a 15 acre park with lake and district centre, leisure facilities, offices and schools, in addition to homes, Brabazon emphasises sustainability and community engagement. The addition of green spaces, cycle paths, and pedestrian-friendly areas will reduce environmental impact, while cafés and shops will foster social interaction, creating a thriving local hub for the wider community. 

Brizes Park: blending countryside and modern living

Situated in Brentwood, Essex, Brizes Park offers a unique opportunity to live within 70 acres of parkland which blends countryside living and easy access to London. The development provides a special attraction being the herd of fallow deer which roam freely around the grounds, as well as walks within the estate and two tennis courts all promoting a healthy lifestyle. Brizes Park consists of a collection of expertly renovated/recrafted apartments with converted and new build homes, offering privacy and security in one of the finest settings in eastern England. 

Bankside Gardens: sustainable and inclusive living 

Bankside Gardens exemplifies how new developments can be built with sustainability and community at their heart. An established and growing neighbourhood, Bankside Gardens is just minutes from Reading town centre and offers a stunning collection of contemporary apartments surrounded by a beautiful lake, parkland and landscaped gardens. This design-led apartment scheme provides a premium specification which all benefit from a concierge service, a gym, cinema and a parking space.

Heyford Park: a growing community in Oxfordshire

Heyford Park in Oxfordshire is a dynamic development that combines modern living with a strong community spirit. The development features a range of new homes, green spaces, and amenities, creating a well-connected neighbourhood. Local facilities such as a community centre, shops, and leisure amenities encourage interaction, while the proximity to Oxford and excellent transport links enhance its appeal. 

Elderwood Parc: sustainable living in Wales

Elderwood Parc, located in the Welsh village of Portskewett, is an exciting new development of 269 homes surrounded by beautiful countryside and conveniently located for the M4 corridor between Wales and England. Designed with sustainability and community at its core, the development has included the construction of a neighbouring care home with the developers regularly running community initiatives and partnering with schools and local teams to support recreation. Neighbouring Caldicot complements the local leisure and education amenities of Portskewett with a selection of shops, pubs, clubs and sites of interest. 

The Waterfront: a seaside community on the South Coast

The Waterfront, located on the picturesque South Coast, brings the best of coastal living combined with modern amenities. This new development focuses on creating a vibrant, sustainable community, with an emphasis on outdoor spaces, walkways, and green areas to complement the natural beauty of the coastline. The Waterfront also offers residents easy access to local shops, leisure facilities, and excellent transport connections. Designed with both residents and visitors in mind, this development provides the perfect mix of relaxation and convenience, ensuring a high quality of life while contributing to the economic and social vitality of the region. 

Hanwell Square: a new West London community

Hanwell Square in leafy Ealing is already home to over 100 residents as well as shops and businesses, designed around a vibrant village square. Hanwell itself is one of west London's best-kept secrets. Warm and welcoming, with a strong sense of place and community, it's a great neighbourhood in which to put down roots. Located in the capital's greenest borough, with 3,300 acres of green space, Hanwell is super-handy for White City, Chiswick, Richmond and Kew Gardens. What's more, it's blessed with all the charm and character of its west London neighbours, but without the hefty price tag.

Cottonyards: a vibrant new community in Glasgow

Cottonyards in Glasgow’s New Gorbals, south of the River Clyde, appeals to young professionals drawn by its unique blend of heritage and modern living. Boasting phenomenal cityscape views, the development centres on shared gardens and vibrant community spirit. With ample sports and leisure facilities, a new health centre, a library, and local shops, residents have everything they need locally. Nearby Glasgow Green hosts numerous community events, making it the perfect address for those seeking city vibrancy.

Why these developments matter

As the need to create more sustainable communities continues to move up the placemaking agenda there is an ever growing desire on the part of both landowners and housebuilders to create ‘legacy developments’ – adhering to principles of high quality design and construction that will benefit future generations, whilst playing a crucial role in shaping the future of our towns and cities through prioritising thoughtful, community-focused design.

Further information

Contact Vicky Dudbridge or Amy Davis