Building neighbourhoods: Exploring new-build communities
It’s often said that the people make the place. Perhaps that’s why many new-build developments across the UK emphasise community. Estates are designed to bring the residents together and foster a friendly atmosphere. After all, moving into a new development means you and your neighbours are all in the same boat. Rather than joining an existing community, you can shape the community spirit from scratch.
If you want to live somewhere with like-minded locals, consider the communities taking shape in some of the UK’s major cities. Yorkshire hotspots Leeds and York, Manchester and Liverpool in the North West and Oxford further south have new-builds aplenty. Even better, all these locations are widely considered some of the friendliest cities in the UK, so you can expect a warm welcome as soon as you arrive. Here, we’re delving deeper into these five cities, their community spirit and the exciting new-build developments rising in them.
Leeds
The largest city in Yorkshire, Leeds is famous for its industrial heritage and vibrant culture. Not to mention its diverse population of welcoming locals. Every corner of the city has hidden gems to uncover due to the number of indie businesses that call Leeds home. All of which, enhance the sense of community in this lively northern hub.
The Fold is a leading new housing development in West Yorkshire. Located in Horsforth on the outskirts of Leeds, this sprawling estate consists of two, three and four bedroom houses with sustainable credentials. Each home is gas-free and fitted with integrated appliances, with heat pumps powering the development to promote energy efficiency. Perfect for families seeking a forever home and young professionals looking for space to grow, these new-build houses in Leeds are nestled between the city and the Yorkshire Dales. It’s the ideal location to access the tranquillity of the countryside and the buzzing atmosphere of central Leeds.
York
As far as major cities go, York is on the smaller side, contributing to the easy-going lifestyle and personable vibe. Hospitality is ingrained in the local culture, which is understandable considering the abundance of little cafes, bars and restaurants. This ancient city is always bustling, but there are also several green spaces nearby for some peace and quiet, such as Clifton Ings and Rowntree Park.
And speaking of Rowntree, The Cocoa Works is a stunning collection of apartments in the former chocolate factory in York. The regeneration project retains the original character of the building while complementing modern living with stylish interiors and high-spec fixtures. The development features landscaped gardens and communal spaces for the community to gather. Plus, a shop and a café that pay homage to the building’s sweet history. Explore Shared Ownership in York.
Manchester
A strong sense of community has always underpinned Manchester, ever since its industrial past as a textile powerhouse through to the present day, where it’s renowned worldwide as a hub for the creative arts and culture. If you’d like to be right in the middle of the action, look no further than new-builds in Manchester. Property developments in the city centre, including L&Q at Victoria Riverside and High Definition, are superbly situated to provide the best of the city on your doorstep. Bars, restaurants, shops and offices are all within walking distance, so you’ll always be near the local hotspots. These communities are made up of modern apartments designed and built to stunning standards – perfect if you want to experience luxurious urban living.
Liverpool
Liverpool is another northern gem with a highly acclaimed artistic and industrial heritage. Known for its iconic music venues where equally iconic bands got their start, this prosperous port city is also famous for its sociable locals. If you fancy living in that kind of community, explore the new-build houses for sale in Liverpool, like those at Whitefield Brook. This residential retreat in the suburbs is a new-build development of contemporary homes, with excellent transport connections, local schools and shopping centres all nearby.
Oxford
It goes without saying that Oxford is one of the most illustrious cities in the UK. Its academic heritage means there are so many interesting stories to uncover, from those concerning literature, philosophy and history to science and medicine. A coveted city to live in, Oxford boasts a vibrant centre brimming with ancient architecture, fantastic transport links and closeness to the idyllic Cotswolds countryside. The prestigious University of Oxford attracts students from all over the world, enriching the multicultural society and supporting the all-embracing energy of the city.
You can join the close-knit community in Oxford at one of the new-builds, such as The Aviary. This contemporary development of new houses on the edge of Oxford has lots of surrounding green space, making it an ideal location if you enjoy connecting with nature. Suited to various lifestyles, including young professionals, growing families and downsizers, these new homes have easy access to road and rail connections, local schools and Oxford’s leading retail destinations. Explore Shared Ownership in Oxford.
At Share to Buy, we make your choice easier with a selection of new-build homes across England, available through alternative homeownership schemes such as Shared Ownership. Get your home-buying journey underway using our property portal.