Academy Central proves instant hit with buyers

House-hunters have voted with their feet at Academy Central, the new Taylor Wimpey development in Barking, reserving four new homes within hours of its opening.

Quick-off-the-mark customers enjoyed the pick of the plots when Academy Central held its exciting launch last weekend, choosing from a range of stylish apartments and three and four-bedroom houses.

The show apartment proved a star attraction; beautifully decorated in restful greens and a natural taupe shade with contemporary furnishings and finishing touches, it reveals just what can be achieved when using a brand new home as a blank canvas.

People coming along were also impressed by the bright, modern feel and open-plan layouts of the homes, which promote relaxed, modern living, and by their eco credentials – the one, two and three-bedroom homes are designed to be 25% more energy efficient than properties built just three years ago.

The contemporary collection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments starts at just £149,995 and spacious three and four-bedroom houses are on sale from £249,995.

Tina Dedman, Sales and Marketing Director for Taylor Wimpey East London, says: “This is one of the most high-profile new homes scheme in the region for years, and the response to our new homes reflects this, bucking the trend in the local property market with four reservations made in the first few days and many more visitors due to return in the coming weeks to secure their place.

“We’re encouraging everyone to come to take a look at the new range of homes available now, even if they aren’t thinking of moving until later in the year or in 2010. By making a reservation, people can secure their home now while prices are low, and take advantage of renewed growth in the housing market.”

Homes at Academy Central provide an exceptional quality of life, each and every property benefits from its own outdoor space, whether a balcony, terrace or private garden. The homes feature beautiful fitted kitchens complete with oven, hob and hood and a large number of designs boast en-suite facilities.

They are also 25% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2006 Building Regulation Standards, with higher levels of insulation and energy-efficient boilers. Plus, a number of homes feature ‘green roofs’ which help improve air quality, provide natural insulation and promote bio-diversity.

Apartment buildings will range between five and ten storeys, boasting fantastic views across Mayesbrook Park and the local area.

The development will include a centralised district heating system to offer further environmental benefits, and the properties are also designed to reduce water consumption, with gardens including water butts so that rain can be reused with ease.

Taylor Wimpey and joint venture partner L&Q are investing £6.25 million in community facilities in Barking, including the creation of a new primary school and play facilities, adult education and training, the expansion of local bus services and the creation of ‘Green Link’ paths and cycleways.

The development is also providing a welcome boost to the local economy, including construction employment opportunities for the Barking and Dagenham area.

Located off Longbridge Road, stretching across to Mayesbrook Park and bounded by Lodge Avenue, the area has great opportunities for work and leisure, with Vicarage Field, The Mall and Exchange Mall shopping centres all within walking distance.

A choice of health and fitness centres are also located nearby, while Mayesbrook Park provides 100 acres of green space on the doorstep, including football pitches, tennis and basketball courts, lakes and children’s playgrounds.

Goodmayes Railway Station is within walking distance from the development, offering regular services to London’s Liverpool Street in just over 20 minutes and to Stratford, home of the 2012 games, in only 13 minutes.

To see the new showhome and find out more about the homes on sale at Academy Central, visit the development located at Lodge Avenue, off Longbridge Road, Barking and open Thursday to Monday, between 10am and 6pm.

Alternatively, visit academycentralbarking.com to find out more.