Films such as Blade Runner predicted 21st-century cities full of flying cars and towering neon advertisements, but the real changes from before the millennium relate to the use of data, analytics and other technologies less obviously visible in our day-to-day lives. No fiction of the last century predicted anything like our modern smartphones, which would … Continued
New construction developments promise innovation, growth and progress, shaping the future of our towns and cities. But, amid the concrete and steel, it is important not to overlook the value of community engagement. In recent years, the importance of involving residents and businesses in the planning and execution of construction projects has become increasingly recognised. … Continued
The landscape of residential developments is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by innovative trends and technologies that are reshaping the way we conceive, design and inhabit homes. From sustainable construction practices to smart home automation, the future of residential living is evolving to meet the changing needs and preferences of homeowners. Notable trends and technologies … Continued
In an era marked by climate change and an ever-increasing awareness of environmental issues, sustainability has become a guiding principle for industries worldwide. As a property developer, we have responsibility to contribute to a greener future. When looking to create a more environmentally conscious tomorrow, there are key considerations. Location and design: laying the foundation … Continued
The impact LW Developments makes in the community goes far beyond bricks and mortar. Creating a legacy from its buildings is just one way the business works to create lasting positive change. Our directors are also the owners of Cheshunt Football Club, with Dean Williamson its chairman, playing an active role in fostering community engagement … Continued
LW Developments has been in the business for more than 40 years, witnessing first-hand how development can bring enduring prosperity to an area. While improving the quality of life for a community, development also fosters prosperity and Gross Value Added (GVA) on a much broader scale. Here we look at just some of the benefits … Continued
The term ‘co-living’ is becoming a bit of a buzzword in rental circles. For some it may invoke thoughts of hippy communes in the 60s, or hazy memories of student digs. But in recent years, the appeal for shared living with communal areas and facilities is reaching a much wider demographic. According to Savills, there … Continued
Behind every smooth-running team is a great office manager, bringing organisation, sound problem-solving skills and a sense of calm to the workplace. At LW Developments, our office manager Denise Tarpey is an invaluable asset. A master of co-ordination and a source of endless support, she is also a mum of two, somehow juggling all her … Continued
As the housing crisis continues to intensify, it’s no surprise to see the issue rising up the political agenda. Interest rate hikes have led to soaring repayments for homeowners, with experts predicting a mortgage ‘timebomb’ as many fixed rate deals come to an end. Rents, meanwhile, are at their highest on record and reportedly account … Continued
Sustainable design in property development is gaining significant momentum in the UK, as more developers recognise the long-term benefits it offers. By integrating environmentally conscious practices into the design, construction and operation of buildings, sustainable design aims to minimise the negative impact on the environment while maximising economic and social benefits. Environmental benefits Sustainable design … Continued
The UK housing market has witnessed a significant surge in the demand for new-build properties in recent years. As more homebuyers are drawn to the allure of modern living, the advantages of choosing a new-build home over a period property have become increasingly evident. But what are the key benefits that new-build homes offer? Contemporary … Continued
When Rachel Maclean became the new Housing Minister earlier this year, it prompted a lot of dissension as she was the sixth person in a year to have held the role. While the previous incumbents of the position have barely had time to let the ink dry on their contract, it is hoped that Ms … Continued
Moving into a newly built home is a dream for many. Getting to that stage, though, is no easy task and is the culmination of months, even years, of hard work and great planning. From finding a suitable site for development to handing over the keys on a finished home takes a good deal of … Continued
At LW Developments, we pride ourselves on building relationships, not just homes. Our people are important to us as they are the lifeblood of our family business. We thought we would kick off 2023 by introducing you to some of our key people. This month, we have been talking to Director Glenn Williamson. When did … Continued
The end of one year and the start of a new one is often a time for making decisions, for looking ahead and planning changes. They may be small – like joining a gym or giving up smoking – or something on a larger scale … changing career, starting up a business or looking to … Continued
No matter what your political preference may be, it is fair to say that the Government line-up has been pretty turbulent after Truss’ tenure lasted a mere 45 days. Now that Rishi Sunak has been established as the new Prime Minister, the hope is that he will remain in power for longer than a limp … Continued
Anyone who has not seen the screaming headlines about the forthcoming energy crisis must have been living under an (unheated) rock for the last few months. The press has repeatedly warned people of the impending price hike, which experts believe has been caused because of the Ukraine war and the pandemic. For most, the ‘whys’ … Continued
As Britain faces a cost-of-living crisis, rising inflation and an impending recession, the property industry argues that addressing the housing crisis is one way to strengthen our economy. In this article, we take a look at what the changes announced in the mini-Budget mean for investors and homeowners. Among Kwasi Kwarteng’s widespread tax cuts, the … Continued
The construction industry has been adversely impacted over the past two years by a multitude of factors, including soaring inflation, the cost-of-living crisis and, not forgetting, COVID-19. Unprecedented disruption to global supply chains and subsequent shortages, delays and, ultimately, rises in material costs have all put pressure on a sector already struggling to deliver on … Continued
The planning and property industry is full of words and phrases that might be confusing to those not regularly buying, renting or selling land or property. There can be a lot to get your head around – complicated paperwork, lengthy contracts and unfamiliar language that everyone else around you seems to understand perfectly. Not sure … Continued
New housing plans are being put under threat and impractical restraints placed on developers as nutrient neutrality becomes a growing issue. It is one of the biggest concerns in the home building industry at the moment and currently, nobody has been able to find a satisfactory solution. Nutrient neutrality originally hit the headlines in 2018 … Continued
The Government has recently announced a levelling up plan aimed at transforming the UK, spreading opportunity and prosperity to more areas and closing the national income gap. The Levelling Up White Paper, which includes 12 national, cross-societal missions to be achieved by 2030, represents a long-term plan to see nationwide disparities narrow in regard to … Continued
It’s hard to believe just how quickly 12 months can pass and, in that time, how many changes we’ve seen imposed on society and businesses. At LW Developments, we’ve taken this opportunity to reflect on 2021, because despite the increased restrictions, social distancing and lack of post-work pint, it was a great year for … Continued
As we reflect on two weeks in which leaders from around the world assembled in Glasgow for the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), the construction and built industry look to what they can do to help reduce carbon commissions in the UK. With the built environment contributing to 25 per cent of the … Continued
A funding scheme first launched in 2016 has been renewed to help build 10,000 new homes within the next four years. Founded by Lloyds Banking Group and Homes England, the Housing Growth Partnership II (HGP) provides British SME and regional housebuilders £300 million for extra development work. The deal has been forged to increase the … Continued
Hundreds of homes and a spectacular new football stadium will soon lay at the heart of a long-awaited new sports village at Cheshunt Football Club. After eight years in the planning process the green light was finally given in September 2021 for Cheshunt Sports Village when the council’s refusal was overturned in a public inquiry. … Continued
Buying a property for the first time is nearly always a daunting experience, without throwing a global pandemic and the threat of an economic downturn into the mix. However, much is being done to help those make that initial, scary step onto the first rung of the property ladder. Here is a breakdown of what … Continued
A leading property developer has praised the Queen for her “commitment to construction” post COVID in a recent speech she made at the State Opening of Parliament. LW Developments’ Dean Williamson has welcomed the monarch’s comments to the forthcoming Planning Bill, which aims to promote economic recovery and growth in response to the pandemic. “There … Continued
Among the barren economic wasteland that COVID-19 has left in its wake, a few small promising buds of growth are starting to penetrate the unpredictable property world. Back on March 1, with the vaccination rollout in full swing, Chancellor Rishi Sunak unveiled some positive changes in his Spring Budget. The stamp duty holiday extension … Continued
COVID-19 has changed everything. The way we interact with people, the way we think about things and of course the way we work. For many people, the last time they saw the inside of their office was back in March 2020 when restrictions were first announced and orders to work from home were issued. As … Continued
House prices finished up in 2020, but with end of the furlough scheme and the stamp duty holiday this year, how will house prices fare in 2021? Property website Rightmove predict that the surge in house prices at the end of last year will continue into this year as the nation’s housing needs are likely … Continued
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick has set out proposals to bring Britain’s planning system kicking and screaming into the 21st century. The ambitious plans have been drawn up to get the country building. Although what effect the coronavirus outbreak is now going to have remains to be seen. The full Planning for the Future White Paper … Continued
The Government has set an ambitious target of building 300,000 new homes a year by the mid-2020s to be able to cope with demand. In 2018-19, they achieved 241,130 which is still some way short. One of the biggest blockers is finding available land, so if you are a landowner, now could be the right … Continued
Everyone has been making a big thing of the fact that not only are we starting a new year, but we’re also beginning a new decade. It’s hard to believe it’s now 10 years since David Cameron and Nick Clegg joined forces, and Germany kicked England out of yet another World Cup. Here at LW … Continued
Buying your first home is one of the most exciting – and most stressful – times of your life. Whether you are taking advantage of a scheme to help secure your dream property or not, LW Developments, of Broxbourne, a Help to Buy Scheme provider, is offering some tips to get you moved in. HOW … Continued
Whether you have a large garden, own commercial premises or have strategic land on the edge of town, there will come a time when you will want to know how much your land is worth and how you can sell it to maximise its value. Whatever the size of your land, you will want the … Continued
In January this year we submitted a permission in principle (PIP) application for a small residential scheme in Hoddesdon. It is the first time we have made such an application and, from my discussions with planning officers, I understand it is the first one the local authority has received since this new route to planning … Continued
The first phase of apartments at Skyview, Hoddesdon, were all sold at the launch weekend. The scheme comprises a selection of brand-new top floor luxury one and two-bedroom apartments available on a Help to Buy Basis. The next phase will be released soon by our agents Anthony Davies.
Broxbourne Council’s Local Plan Examination is underway with LW Developments proposals for Cheshunt Sports Village heard in October. LW Developments has promoted the residential led mixed use scheme throughout the Local Plan process. The inspector is due to publish his interim report on the plan at the end of November.