Location, location, location in Essex

After 25 years in their previous home, one Essex couple were looking for something special from their next home - and they found it at Redrow’s waterside development in Maldon.

Les and Elaine Hammans were living in South Woodham Ferrers when they decided the time was right for a change of scenery. They were looking for a beautiful setting where they could make a sound long-term investment in a new home.

While visiting Maldon they came across The Lakes in nearby Heybridge, a picturesque new homes venture by Redrow Homes, surrounded by water on three sides. It was here that Les, a director in his own coffee vending business operating in Essex, and Elaine, who works for Southend Borough Council, found what they were looking for – a spacious home in an idyllic spot.

Having previously owned three new-build properties, they were keen to once again take advantage of all the added benefits that come with owning a brand new home including, easy maintenance, no costly renovation requirements and improved energy efficiency.

Les, 55, says: “After living in our previous house for 25 years we wanted a change of scenery and a home that would prove to be a good investment, but one we could also enjoy.

“We were so impressed when we found The Lakes. As well as having a fantastic location the houses are lovely and competitively priced. You couldn’t ask for more.”

Les and Elaine chose a five-bedroom, three-storey ‘Webburn’. Featuring an open-plan kitchen/family area, separate lounge and dining room on the first floor, three-bedrooms with one en-suite and family bathroom on the second floor, and two bedrooms and another shower room the top level, it is a home that offers a lot of space.

Les added: “Buying a new-build means you can move in right away and have a blank canvas to design the home the way you want it. I also like the idea of no one living in it before hand, all-in-all it suits us perfectly.”

Situated on Hall Road, The Lakes currently has a mix of four and five-bedroom homes available in a choice of two and three-storey designs, priced from £329,950 to £539,950.

There are beautiful views of the River Blackwater and the development is close to the picturesque Heybridge Basin, which offers walks along the sea wall. The Lakes is also is also within easy reach of the historic town of Maldon, which is one of the oldest recorded towns in Britain; and is opposite Maldon’s Promenade Park, with its many acres of open space and children’s play areas.

In Heybridge itself there is a shopping complex, restaurants, supermarkets, pubs, and other local amenities and nearby Mill Beach is a popular holiday destination for many people.

Heybridge is approximately 30 minutes outside of Chelmsford. London Liverpool Street can be reached by direct rail link from Chelmsford in around 35 minutes.

For more information on The Lakes, head down to the development on Hall Road, Heybridge.