THIS AWARD IS FOR THE BEST DEVELOPMENT OF ANY SIZE IN THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND (FOR THE PURPOSES OF THIS CATEGORY – BELOW BIRMINGHAM). A HIGHLY COMPETITIVE MARKETPLACE WHERE THE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW HOMES IS INCREASING, THIS AWARD RECOGNISES AN EXCEPTIONAL RANGE OF NEW HOMES THAT STANDS OUT FROM THE CROWD WHILE REMAINING ACCESSIBLE TO FIRST TIME BUYERS. BEST NEW DEVELOPMENT IN THE SOUTH
UPSTREAM HOMES | EDCITY
Setting a new benchmark for design-led, community-focused housing that is genuinely accessible to first time buyers, EdCity is a pioneering mixed-use development in the heart of White City, London. Delivered by Upstream Homes, the development arm of, London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham, the development blends high-quality architecture with social purpose, redefining how a development can seamlessly integrate education, innovation and affordable living. It is a blueprint for how London should deliver affordable housing in the future. Set in one of London’s most expensive boroughs, EdCity proudly delivers a 100% truly affordable housing programme, bringing high-quality homes to the people who need them most. From social housing supporting the most vulnerable residents, to Intermediate Rent prioritising the key workers who keep the city running, to Shared Ownership homes with deposits starting from just over £5,000 – a remarkable £65,000 below the local average – EdCity is opening doors for households who would otherwise be priced out of the area.
LATIMER AND VISTRY KENT | ASHMERE – A BOLD NEW COMMUNITY IN EBBSFLEET GARDEN CITY
Ashmere is a flagship new neighbourhood within Ebbsfleet Garden City, the UK’s first Garden City in 100 years, which is transforming 2,500 acres of brownfield land into 15,000 homes shaped around high-quality design, healthy living and extensive green infrastructure. Delivered as a joint venture between Latimer and Vistry, Ashmere will provide 2,600 homes by 2036, alongside schools, shops, green spaces and sustainable transport links. Designed in line with the Building for a Healthy Life framework, every home meets Nationally Described Space Standards and benefits from high-quality specification. Built on a former chalk quarry, the architecture draws inspiration from the surrounding landscape and local vernacular, creating a contemporary yet distinctive place rooted in Kent’s heritage. With 25% affordable homes, accessible Shared Ownership options and exceptional sales success – including 80% first time buyers – Ashmere is setting a new benchmark for delivering affordable, high-quality, low-carbon homes at scale within a well-connected, green community.
GUINNESS HOMES | THE WATERSIDE
The Waterside by Guinness Homes is a distinctive new development in Bromley- by-Bow, offering a collection of studio, one, two and three bedroom homes – including two townhouse collections, each comprising three homes, all featuring private terraces and far-reaching views across London – in a unique canalside setting. Designed with first time buyers in mind, the scheme delivers a balanced tenure mix including Shared Ownership, Private Sale and Social Rent, ensuring accessibility remains at its core. Set along the River Lea, private balconies, terraces and considered public spaces with ample outdoor seating create a strong connection to the surrounding environment. Residents benefit from a growing neighbourhood with on-site amenities, alongside excellent transport links via Bromley-by-Bow station. The development also demonstrates a strong commitment to community, supporting local schools, training initiatives and employment opportunities. Combining design quality, affordability and meaningful placemaking, The Waterside offers buyers the opportunity to be part of a vibrant east London community.
READERS’ AWARDS buyer
76 First Time Buyer August/September 2026
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