Wigwam Magazine Issue No.3

ISSUE No.3 2020

THE PREMIER PROPERTY MAGAZINE FOR SWINDON AND THE SURROUNDING AREA

BEHIND THE SCENES AT DYRHAM PARK WITH

NATIONAL TRUST CREATING HAPPY HOMES WITH

FOREST TO HOME

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2nd Floor Cornmarket House, Old Town, Swindon SN1 3EB

CONTENTS ISSUE No.3 2020

08

MARKET WATCH

The number of properties on the market in Swindon has risen dramatically.

20

18

WICHELSTOWE

First residents move into Swindon's landmark Canalside housing development.

THE LONG BARN

Beautiful barn conversion in the Wiltshire countryside attracts national attention.

28

STONEWOOD PARTNERSHIP

Quality new build homes the goal for Wiltshire developers.

30

STEVEN KELVIN

Bespoke gardens can give you ‘the garden you never knew you wanted'.

wigwamswindon.co.uk

CONTENTS ISSUE No.3 2020

32

NATIONAL TRUST

A week in the life of Dyrham Park's Garden Manager.

36

FOREST TO HOME

Creating happy homes with solid timber furniture.

46

MIELE FEATURE

50

Enjoy an authentic barista experience at home with Miele’s new freestanding coffee machines.

64

VISIT SWINDON

Explore Coate Water Country Park.

wigwamswindon.co.uk

RECIPE INSPIRATION

Grilled Chilean beef kebabs with chimichurri sauce.

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED VISIT SWINDON

LATEST NEWS • WHAT’S ON • THINGS TO DO • ATTRACTIONS • OFFERS

Swindon is one of the South West’s best kept secrets, a thriving and diverse modern town that is full of hidden gems.

Swindon offers a superb range of entertainment, leisure and accommodation for visitors of all kinds, with something for every budget - from five star breaks to budget days out. Swindon is an easy to reach destination for people visiting the South West or holidaying in the West Country - some 30 miles from Bath and Oxford, and just 16 miles from Cirencester, the capital of the Cotswolds.

You can register for all the latest news, events and offers on the Visit Swindon website.

www.visitswindon.org.uk

HOW CAN YOU GET INVOLVED WITH WIGWAM? Wigwam are here for the Swindon community to enjoy. There are lots of ways that you can interact and get involved. Here are just some of the ways.

PROPERTY NEWS

FEATURED PROPERTY

EXPERT OPINION

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Simply send your news story relating to the property market to Wigwam and we’ll upload it to our website and share via our social channels for you.

We’ll showcase your best properties online, in print and via our social channels, just send us the details and we’ll do the rest.

Show Wigwam readers why you are the go-to expert in your field through Expert Opinion pieces online, in print and through video.

List your property related business in the Wigwam Swindon business directory. The business directory listing is free of charge.

PROPERTY CAREERS

VIDEO CONTENT

E-NEWSLETTER

ADVERTISING

Are you looking to fill a job vacancy, then we can share this for you on the Wigwam website and on our social media channels.

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Wigwam® is published by Jazzbones Creative Ltd.

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©National Trust Images/James Dobson

2nd Floor, Cornmarket House, High Street, Swindon SN1 3EB 01793 847300 www.jazzbones.co.uk

Please recycle this magazine when you have finished with it.

Wigwam is a property magazine that brings you the hottest property news from across Swindon and the surrounding areas.

Welcome to the latest edition of Wigwam, the premier property magazine focused on Swindon and its uniquely beautiful hinterland.

Nobody ever accused me of being green-fingered. In fact, I have a decidedly love/ hate relationship with my defiantly unruly garden. That said, like anybody else fortunate enough to have a decent outdoor space at home, being able to spend time in the garden was an absolute godsend during lockdown.

The knock-on effect of the lockdown experience in the property market is that estate agents report increased demand among buyers for outdoor spaces, whether that means bigger gardens at the higher end of the market or more demand for flats with balconies or patios.

In that spirit, we are celebrating all things green and garden-related in this edition of Wigwam, from stately National Trust gardens and Coate Water Country Park to designer gardens and upmarket garden rooms (aka posh sheds!).

Enjoy the magazine and remember, we’re here to support the local property sector, so if there’s anything we can do to promote your property-related business or if you have news to share, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Jeff King Editor Wigwam Swindon press@wigwamswindon.co.uk

Wigwam Supported by:

SWINDON PROPERTY WATCH. AUGUST 2020.

As Wigwam went to press, new data revealed that the average UK asking price was £30,000 higher than before the lockdown and had gone up by £10,000 since the chancellor cut stamp duty on July 8th.

At the same time, the number of properties on the market in Swindon has risen dramatically.

HIGHEST PRICE

£900K LOWEST PRICE

£39K PROPERTIES TO RENT

521

AVERAGE HOUSE PRICE

£260,800 9 | ISSUE No.3

HUNDREDS OF NEW PROPERTIES ON THE MARKET IN SWINDON POST-LOCKDOWN As we move in (and out?) of lockdown the big question on everybody’s lips in the property sector and beyond is what will happen to house prices.

For the moment, despite the doomsayers’ predictions of apocalypse now and tomorrow, the market seems pretty robust. In Swindon, the number of properties coming on to the market has increased considerably, a sure sign that sellers are confident of securing decent offers.

At the beginning of April, as the realities of lockdown began to kick in, there were 1,085 properties on the market in Swindon. At the beginning of August, there were 1,494 properties available - that’s a rise of almost 38 per cent.

The numbers have risen significantly across all types of properties: detached houses (up 25 per cent), semi-detached (up 24 per cent), terraced houses (up 57 per cent), and flats (up 48 per cent). The number of properties for rent has also increased, with 521 properties on the market in August compared to 480 in April.

So what’s happening here?

“There’s been an obvious spike because there was almost no activity for 8 to 10 weeks,” says Jon Harding of Charles Harding Estate Agents. “I think that the lockdown also gave lots of people time to re-evaluate what they had in their property and what they really wanted from their home. Then of course there are the major changes in stamp duty (no stamp duty on properties up to £500,000 until 31 March 2021) - that has made lots of people decide to make their move now rather than wait.”

“We’ve had a number of people who we had done evaluations for earlier in the year who were looking at a possible 2021 sale but have now decided to put their properties on the market immediately.”

“For some people the lockdown made them realize their property was too small and they needed more living space or bigger bedrooms, other have decided they wanted a larger garden. As an example, we’ve had one elderly couple who after months cooped up in a flat have decided they want to move to a bungalow.”

“We’re also seeing plenty of activity from professional first time buyers looking at properties in the £200,000 bracket. I know there’s lots of economic uncertainty more generally and fears of higher unemployment as people come off furlough, but as yet that doesn’t seem to have had an impact on the property market in Swindon.”

A property market, we should never forget, that still offers way more bang for your buck than just about any UK town or city within an hour’s commute of London, not too mention far more accessible prices than neighbouring Oxford, Bath or Bristol.

wigwamswindon.co.uk | 10

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01793 847300 or propel-jazzbones.co.uk © Propel from Jazzbones Creative

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2nd Floor Cornmarket House, Old Town, Swindon SN1 3EB

JESSICA JAMES Properties

Okus Road, Old Town.

Jessica James are pleased to offer for sale this substantial detached home located in the very heart of Old Town, and within walking distance of its many amenities. This superb property was built over 15 years ago and was built to be in keeping with the Victorian style of many of the other houses within Old Town and has five large bedrooms and three spacious reception rooms. There are many exceptional features to include high ceilings, bay and sash windows and a beautiful open fireplace. Viewing is highly recommended to fully appreciate this substantial home.

jessicajamesproperties.co.uk

ÂŁ650,000 01793 875324

Wave goodbye to expensive office space and say hello to remote working and 50% savings*.

The Covid-19 lockdown has shown us that many future business models will involve a degree of remote working For some companies that will mean downsizing on office space, for others it might mean abandoning physical offices all together. In both cases, the economic savings can be huge.

Recognising the economic impact of the lockdown on companies big and small, Swindon and Reading based Datalibrium is offering an 8 week FREE transition package that will revolutionise the way your business thinks about Remote Working and IT services by freeing you of expensive commercial space.

To start talking about the bespoke IT package we can offer your business, contact us on 01793 251300 or info@datalibrium.co.uk www.datalibrium.co.uk

*Datalibrium are committed to beating any of our competitors’ pricing and commonly reduce new clients’ IT computing costs by 25% and in some cases approaching reductions of 50%.

01793 954809 gary.bremner@kwuk.com www.kwuk.com

Helena Road, SN25 2AS This 5 bedroom detached home has been incredibly well-maintained, extended, and improved by the current owners. No expense has been spared to create a clever and thoughtfully designed modern family home. The kitchen and bathrooms have all been specially designed by Hobson Choice in Swindon, and the fittings and integrated appliances are of the highest quality. To fully appreciate the attention to detail in this property, a viewing is highly recommended.

offers over

ÂŁ525,000 For more info on the featured property contact Gary Bremner

01793 954809

gary.bremner@kwuk.com www.kwuk.com

Speak to an agent

www.kwuk.com

01793 954809 gary.bremner@kwuk.com www.kwuk.com

Gabriel Crescent, SN25 2AT This beautiful 4 bedroom detached family home has been incredibly well-maintained and improved by the current owners. No expense has been spared to create an excellent property on a lovely corner plot with large, mature gardens. The kitchen and bathrooms have all been specially designed

by Hobson Choice in Swindon, and the fittings and integrated appliances are of the highest quality.

To fully appreciate the attention to detail in this property, a viewing is highly recommended.

offers over

ÂŁ525,000 For more info on the featured property contact Gary Bremner

01793 954809

gary.bremner@kwuk.com www.kwuk.com

Speak to an agent

www.kwuk.com

PROPERTY NEWS MONEY

ZOOPLA ANALYSIS SHOWS INTEREST IN NEW BUILD PROPERTIES IS HIGHER THAN BEFORE LOCKDOWN.

Demand for new build homes has soared by 66% since the housing market reopened, surpassing levels seen before lockdown.

The upsurge is a continuation of the trend recorded at the start of 2020, when the new build market enjoyed its strongest start to a year since 2016.

Persimmon Homes, one of the UK’s largest homebuilders, has seen a massive 215% month-on-month jump in demand through Zoopla buyer leads during the past six weeks.

Leads are generated by buyers requesting more information from homebuilders via property listings.

The recovery in the new build homes sector significantly outpaces the revival in the market for older properties, where demand is currently 46% higher than before lockdown.

The surge in demand for new build properties has been particularly strong among first-time buyers, growing by 87% compared with levels during lockdown.

Alex Rose, director of New Homes at Zoopla, said: “While the industry has undergone an unprecedented period, the new homes market has shown itself to be geared towards a rapid rebound.”

Mark Cook, group sales and marketing director at Persimmon Homes, said: “Our experience in offering virtual viewings, exceptional computer-generated imagery (CGI), and understanding what it takes to sell off-plan, enabled us to sustain demand, even when the market was suspended at the height of the lockdown.”

At the same time, demand is also likely to have been supported by the fact that the Help to Buy scheme can only be used to purchase a new build property.

With many lenders withdrawing their 90% and 95% loan-to-value (LTV) mortgages in the face of the pandemic, more first-time buyers in particular are likely to be turning to the scheme in a bid to get onto the property ladder. The Help to Buy initiative tops up a 5% deposit with a five-year interest-free loan worth 20% of the property’s value.

First-time buyers are often described as being the lifeblood of the housing market, so it's good news for the new build sector that demand is so strong among this group.

Going forward, Alex Rose expects the initial spike in demand for new properties seen since the housing market reopened to 'settle' as the summer progresses and sales are agreed. “First-time buyers will no doubt uphold a level of demand, with many keen to make the most of Help to Buy, following the withdrawal of many 90% LTV mortgage products,” he says.

DEMAND FOR NEW BUILD HOMES ROCKETS BY 66% Why is this happening? The resilience of the new build market is likely to be down to two factors. On the one hand, developers are used to having to sell homes when physical viewings are not possible.

17 | ISSUE No.3

wigwamswindon.co.uk | 18

PROPERTY NEWS WICHELSTOWE

FIRST RESIDENTS MOVE INTO SWINDON'S LANDMARK CANALSIDE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

19 | ISSUE No.3

PICTURESQUE LOCATION IN WICHELSTOWE IS ONE OF THE UK'S LARGEST JOINT VENTURE HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS.

The first residents have now moved into Swindon's landmark new Canalside housing development at Wichelstowe.

They were welcomed this week by the leader of Swindon Borough Council and fellow representatives of the joint venture behind the development.

Set along the newly restored Wilts & Berks canal, the stunning range of contemporary houses and apartments are being built by five-star builders Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes.

Canalside is the first phase of the Wichelstowe development being built

by Barratt & David Wilson Homes and will feature 208 much-needed new homes when complete next year. A new supermarket, secondary school and pub are already open on site offering a vibrant heart to the community from the outset.

One of the largest local authority joint venture agreements in the country, the partnership between Swindon Borough Council and Barratt Developments plc. will deliver 3,000 new homes at Wichelstowe over the next 20 years, along with new schools and community facilities. The 250-hectare site on the southern edge of Swindon includes extensive open spaces, nature conservation areas, playing pitches and allotments.

Couple Nina Thatcher, 25, and Joe Retter, 29, were among the first residents to complete on their new home and have now moved into their three-bedroom David Wilson town house. The pair have been together for three and a half years and made the decision to save up for a deposit two years ago so they could purchase their first house together.

Nina said: "The house is everything we wanted; we are really pleased with it. It's such a nice area and, being on the edge of Swindon, you get a real sense of being in the countryside too. For us it's very convenient as well with both our workplaces only five minutes away.�

"We used to drive through the Wichelstowe area before building started and we knew we wanted to live there, so when the homes were released for sale, we immediately reserved one - I think we were the first! My mum used to live in a David Wilson home in Wootton Bassett a couple of years back, so we knew they were a good builder

and that's also partly why we chose Wichelstowe.�

"It's been so exciting to see our home go up and our experience of David Wilson has been brilliant, the regular updates and communication have probably been the best bit of all. We were so looking forward to moving in and celebrating - it's amazing!"

A welcome pack for the first residents to move in will include all the information about their new home as well as a selection of gifts from nearby Waitrose and on-site pubrestaurant Hall & Woodhouse.

Swindon Borough Council Leader and joint venture board member, Councillor David Renard said: "This is a truly momentous day and I am thrilled to see the first residents move into this stunning development in Swindon. We are in the grips of a housing crisis which requires innovation, dedication and a new approach to provide the homes our communities so desperately need. So it's hugely heartening to see our partnership with Barratt Developments bear fruit - delivering not just homes, but really beautiful, contemporary homes alongside a thriving hub at the heart of the community."

Ian Menham, Wichelstowe joint venture board member and Barratt Developments' West regional director, added: "We are delighted to see people move into Canalside at Wichelstowe. This is a development that we are enormously proud of not just because of the wide range of high quality homes on offer here, but because of the wider transformation of this site with the newly restored canal, plenty of wide open spaces, nature conservation areas, playing fields and allotments - all of which have never felt more important."

Wichelstowe's show homes and sales and marketing suite are now open by appointment and virtual tours are also available. A range of safety measures and new working procedures are in place including protective perspex screens, retractable barriers, strict social distancing and, where necessary, personal protective equipment (PPE), plus smart video- doorbell intercom systems to enable customers to engage with sales teams before entering offices. wichelstowe.co.uk

wigwamswindon.co.uk | 20

BEAUTIFUL BARN CONVERSION IN THE WILTSHIRE COUNTRYSIDE ATTRACTS NATIONAL ATTENTION.

Every now and again a property comes onto the market that really does take the breath away. In this case, the Long Barn in Thornhill, near Royal Wootton Bassett is so impressive it is garnering national attention, including a 16-photo spread in The Daily Mail.

The Long Barn is a back to brick refurbishment of a truly stunning rural retreat.

The owners have achieved a modern and contemporary look, whilst retaining the all-important character feel that flows throughout the home.

FEATURED PROPERTY THE LONG BARN

The Long Barn is something very unique, with an impressive 40-foot vaulted kitchen/family room that overlooks the surrounding countryside. Additionally, “The Bullpen” consists of two cottages (ideal for holiday lets, staff accommodation or guests).

Equestrian facilities include stabling, fenced paddocks and a ménage. The whole plot approaches 6 acres.

The property features high quality fixtures and fittings throughout including Gaggenau, Miele, Catchpole & Rye and Harrie Leenders to name but a few. There is Cat 5 cabling throughout the property and also in the stables providing high speed internet.

The plot and derelict barn cost £500,000 and £1 million was spent on the renovation. It is now on the market through Richard James for £1.9 million.

As you would expect from such a detailed renovation, the property is full of individual details. From the outside, it has elements of the celebrity haunt Soho

23 | ISSUE No.3

Farmhouse, while on the inside there is a Playstation console-shaped kitchen island and a Mr Benninspired walk-in wardrobe!

The work started in 2015, with owner Jason Howlett and his three children living in a static caravan on the six-acre rural site. Mr Howlett explained why he first bought the property, saying: “I have always loved barns. I used to live in Woking and I yearned for the country life and ponies.” ”I WANTED A PROJECT AND SOMETHING THAT WAS BEAUTIFUL. I SAW IT FOR SALE AND IT NEEDED RESCUING. I LOVE RESCUING THINGS THAT ARE FALLING DOWN.” He took his time over the renovation saying he “didn't want to rush any decisions. “I wanted to retain the heritage of the building and merge the old with the new,” he said.

wigwamswindon.co.uk | 24

FEATURED PROPERTY THE LONG BARN

While he had an architect - Simon Chambers of LPC - he did not use an interior designer, instead researching everything himself.

“MY FIRST VISION WAS A STAINLESS STEEL KITCHEN BUT I REINED IT IN AS IT COULD HAVE BEEN TOO INDUSTRIAL AND MASCULINE. I TRIED TO MAKE IT LIGHTER AND SOFTER WITH GLASS.” He said: “The property has a Soho Farmhouse feel to it. For my tastes, I have never seen such a beautiful property and I know every inch of it.” For example, he points out the stone signs, which are handmade and reveal the chisel where the name was carved out – but only if you look closely enough.

The 40-foot vaulted kitchen took seven months to complete and includes £10,000 worth of taps.

With his children now at university, it is time for the family to move on. Mr Howlett said: “I've met a new partner who lives in the New Forest, so we are moving to that area. The children have all gone to university and so this is too vast for us. It needs a new family who will take it over.”

Tom Parker at Zoopla, says: “Lockdown has meant homes with wonderful gardens or swimming pools now come at an even greater premium and for the more discerning buyer, space to entertain and separate rooms for guests to stay are an absolute must.”

“Surrounded by water on several sides and with a luxurious yet rustic feel throughout, the Long Barn is the perfect rural sanctuary, combining the practicality of benefiting from a short commute to the city with the joy of the countryside.” incentivised.com

25 | ISSUE No.3

wigwamswindon.co.uk | 26

LIFESTYLE

JULIETTE WILLS

HERE’S LOOKING AT YOU, KID

27 | ISSUE No.3

JULIETTE WILLS ON HOW TO AVOID BEING OVERLOOKED

BY THE NEIGHBOURS.

Here’s looking at you, kid. Actually, we’d rather you didn’t. An all-too common problem with buying a house is stepping outside into the back garden and sighing, ‘It’s a bit overlooked, isn’t it?’ Of course, some people are just super fussy, and for them, ‘overlooked’ means someone from two miles away past the church and over the main road might be able to see into your bathroom window if they’ve got a telescope.

For others, it’s not an overreaction and can completely put a buyer off.

If, as a buyer, you can see potential for improving a garden that is overlooked, you’re halfway there.

As a seller, if you arm yourself with a few ideas as to how your buyer might improve things, then you might just clinch that sale. Shrugging and saying, ‘It’s never bothered me,’ just doesn’t cut the mustard. Obviously if you’re buying a modern house on a sprawling estate, where you can barely fit a sheet of paper between one property and another, there’s not a great deal you can do. You could, however, go for the ‘distraction method’ – more on that in another post. For now, here are some steps you can take if you’re thinking of selling an overlooked property, or if you’ve fallen in love with a house but aren’t quite sure about the garden.

You don’t need to barricade yourselves in seriously, you don’t. You don’t want a version of the Berlin wall in their garden, and your neighbours won’t either. If you’re overlooked head-on, rather than from a height, think about introducing a pergola. If you train a climber to grow over it – such as jasmine, clematis or wisteria – you’ll still have light coming through, and it’ll give great colour in summer. It’ll also look pretty for your neighbours, so it’s unlikely they’ll give you any bother over it. One with pull-down fabric sides will give you extra cover from winds as well as prying eyes.

If pergolas aren’t your thing, how about adding a little height to a fence (remember that two metres is the maximum height allowed in the UK unless you obtain planning permission to go higher) with a trellis running along the top, and those ever-useful climbers giving some privacy? Ivy grows like crazy so even without a trellis, you can add height and that all-important burst of colour to a fence.

If your garden is a bit bleak at ground level, consider raised planters at different levels housing tall plants such as pampas grass, alliums, palms or even sunflowers.

Not only will they add privacy, their spectacular beauty will act as a great distraction from prying eyes.

A sleek, horizontal fence can be a nice way of obtaining privacy but also letting light through to your garden. It’s far less obtrusive than your classic feather board fencing, and although expensive, it’ll add value to your property if you decide to sell. Likewise a long trellis at waistheight can work wonders if you’re directly overlooked when seated; grow lavender in pots on one side and you’ll add depth and colour at the same time.

If you really need to get serious, plant some bamboo. Take heed, though: it grows at an insane rate and if you block light into your neighbour’s garden, it’s likely they’re going to demand you take it down. Check with them first to avoid any hassle later on. Bamboo is a grass and is currently not covered by high hedges legislation.

Pandas optional, of course.

Juliette Wills Journalist. Broadcaster. Author.

wigwamswindon.co.uk | 28

PROPERTY NEWS

STONEWOOD PARTNERSHIP

QUALITY NEW BUILD HOMES THE GOAL FOR WILTSHIRE DEVELOPERS A FRIENDSHIP forged on village football pitches and cricket fields has seen Matt Aitkenhead and Ben Lang grow from teammates to partners in a thriving construction business that is set to take a giant leap forward.

Their company Stonewood Builders, based in Castle Combe in Wiltshire, has already established a reputation for transforming listed buildings into stunning homes and now, thanks to the involvement of one of the industry’s biggest players, they have founded Stonewood Partnerships to move into housing development.

Richard Cherry, former Chief Executive of Countryside Properties’ Partnerships Division, was so impressed with a job they carried out for him, he joined forces with them on the new venture.

It began work at its first two projects, a 38-home development at Brook Farm in Great Somerford, north Wiltshire, and 44 new homes and flats around workspaces for up to 100 tenants on a former tannery site in Holt, west Wiltshire.

The company is also awaiting planning permission on an 88-home neighbourhood at Siddington, Gloucestershire, where half the homes will be affordable and all of them will be as close to passive as possible.

Says Ben: “We carried out a refurbishment of Richard’s house in Bath. We didn’t discover about his background until much later. He came to us later in 2017 and said ‘I think you could do housebuilding. You’ve got transferrable knowledge and resource; you have got the right attitude and it is something I’d be keen to do with you’.

“He is brilliant because he will give us the benefit of his vast experience in this sector. He has a light touch, he’s very sage, very wise and very ambitious.”

29 | ISSUE No.3

The new venture is just another step in a steady expansion of Stonewood that began when Matt joined his dad Neil’s building firm after leaving university. At almost the same time Ben, who became friends with Matt while they played football and cricket in the quintessentially Wiltshire village of Biddestone, began labouring for the firm. It was already earning a name for beautiful refurbishments and extensions of country houses around Wiltshire and Gloucestershire.

“It was a really sound, solid business with a great reputation that had been running the best part of 30 years but modest in its turnover, just a few hundred thousand. Matt and I knew it had a great foundation for growth,” says Ben.

Neil and his partner Tim Saunders saw the potential in both youngsters and persuaded Ben to join after he finished university. He was groomed to take on the administration and provide the structure and support as Matt’s ambition drove the business to chase bigger and more ambitious jobs.

Says Ben: “Our priority was to keep people employed and we felt that if we came through that period we would be in a very strong position because our competitors were cutting back.”

In 2009 they bought the elder statesmen out just as the business, which had grown to 30 employees, was hitting the £2 million turnover mark. It was also just in time to face the challenges of the recession.

Work continued to come in thanks to the philosophy inherited from Neil and Tim, that customer service and respect for the architects who hired them was the key to success. The gradual climb out of the recession brought with it an ambition to raise Stonewood’s profile and compete for bigger jobs. Says Matt: “There was a glass ceiling to break through to become credible.

It is difficult for an architect to consider you for a £2 million job if all you’ve ever done for them is a £300,000 job. You have to have one on the CV before they’ll trust you, it’s a Catch 22.”

design and house building operations. The move into housing developments feels like a natural next step for the friends.

Once again it was Matt and Ben’s emphasis on relationships that won a client over and they were awarded a £1 million contract for a mill conversion near Devizes. “The architect was a smallish practice who was looking for a personalised relationship and the client, who met us, was wanting someone they could deal with,” says Matt.

“The fact that Richard Cherry is involved, a housebuilder to have developed a scheme that won the Royal Institute of British Architects Stirling Prize for excellence in architecture shows the quality we have. It’s that passion and drive for quality that will set us apart. The design is so important, it’s not just drawing boxes and bashing them up and we will back ourselves to be able to get the sales by spending a more on the build. That will be our approach as it was Countryside.”

Ben adds: “Also, we were running eight or ten sites rather than three, we were employing more people and turning over more because we had progressed from £200,000 jobs to £700,000 jobs so you become more credible.

“It was a big, big draw a breath moment when we went into that mill job. It was quite a complex site with a glass stair structure craned over the top of a listed building and a swimming pool within a new green oak, thatched building. It won us a Federation of Master Builders South West award which again helped raise our profile.”

With its reputation enhanced, larger, more complex jobs, and more awards, flooded in. Stonewood is now a £50 million plus turnover group with separate companies for its high end contracting,

Says Matt: “Our challenge will be to make sure the housebuilding side shares an ethos and builds the same reputation as the contracting side for building responsibly, to a high quality and with attention to detail. We all want to be equally proud of the new build houses as our refurb and conversion projects.

With the team we have assembled we are hugely confident of achieving this.

Says Ben: “We run our company like we used to run the changing rooms when we were playing for the football club in Biddestone. We both led, with contrasting and complimentary styles creating an environment that was fun while driven to succeed.

“Probably I was the one who was more focused on the shape of the team and who was playing in which position and Matt would be motivating and lifting everyone. That’s where we learnt our leadership values. If you combine that with Matt’s dad Neil’s philosophy of getting the best out of people, we still adopt that.

“After all, as with most things in life, business is about people. Surrounding yourself with likeminded, fun and driven colleagues, finding shared goals and incentives and pushing forward to achieve them.” stonewoodpartnerships.co.uk

They aim to be serious players in the sector and have set themselves a target of building 300 new homes a year within five years. Director of land and planning Gavin Calthrop is already amassing a conveyor belt of carefully selected sites.

The group employs more than 200 staff and works with more than 300 sub-contractors. It is busy looking for extra office space and Stonewood Partnerships has just moved into its own HQ in Tormarton on the Wiltshire/Gloucestershire border.

But the central philosophy formed on the sports fields 20 years ago remains true for the two men who have built the organisation.

BEN LEACH, LEFT, RICHARD CHERRY AND MATT AITKENHEAD

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GARDENS

STEVEN KELVIN

BESPOKE GARDENS CAN GIVE YOU ‘THE GARDEN YOU NEVER KNEW YOU WANTED’

31 | ISSUE No.3

Find your garden uninviting or unruly?

Dreaming of an outdoor space that mirrors the elegance and good taste of your interiors? Then it could be time to hire a man who specializes in designing bespoke gardens, but sees the whole process as collaborative rather than dictatorial and will harbour your own personality and taste to create something special.

Steven Kelvin Gardens have an enviable reputation from his native West Country to the East Coast, USA. In a previous life, Steven was head of visual communication at Bath College; he’s also taught at Swindon College and at several universities. Now he designs gardens and outside spaces. So is he a designer, a gardener or a garden designer? “If people ask me,” he answers, “I just say, I do gardens”.

I’ve also worked in Gibraltar and France, and I’ve had to cancel projects in Portugal and the USA because of the lockdown.”

“Sometimes I can be working on my own, others I might have a team of eight people working with me. And it’s a real mix of skills needed – designing, landscaping, planting, lighting, irrigation, etc. But the real skill is people based, much like being a lecturer you need to get on with all sorts of people and earn their trust and confidence.”

“A lot of what I do is to connect indoor spaces with outside spaces, so before I even sit down and start designing I will take a careful look at the interior spaces that open up into the garden. I will be looking for visual signals. Strangely enough, I am not influenced particularly by other gardens, apart from the plant aspect. I am more influenced by architecture, painting and sculpture.”

The main steps were created using a purpose build frame for the poured concrete that had a coloured dye added and was finally polished.

The terracing structure has a sharply rendered and painted wall in the lower parking area (for the parking area itself we laid Pennant Tegula pavers) with the central terrace created using bespoke Corten steel panels. The very top terrace uses slate chippings, where pots were to be added at a later date.

The lower section is planted with a mix of Stachys 'Byzantine' and 'Silver Carpet', Heuchera ' Purple Palace', Festuca 'Elijah Blue', some low growing evergreens and a mix of Allium bulbs. The central area is exclusively grasses -(Panicum – 'Hans Herms' or 'Northwind', Imperata (Japanese Blood Grass), 'Rubra' Pennisetum, 'Hameln', Molinia – 'Windsaule').

The aim was to screen the view from the road to the house whilst still maintaining a lightness of touch and an element of see through.

“Overall, I have no signature style, everything is client led. Sometimes that can mean a blank canvas, other times it’s a collaborative creation.

A lot of my clients are quite sophisticated culturally, and they have a keen eye for visual design, so their input is significant. Other times, I have a bare minimum of clues, which I have to decipher before giving them the garden they never knew they wanted! Of course, if they have lots of Japanese prints in their house, you don’t give them an Italian renaissance garden!”

Which as a statement of intent is modest to a fault, given the astonishing range of beguiling gardens and outdoor spaces he has created in the 13 years since he exited the lecture halls to become a full-time ‘man who does gardens!’

“At the age of 44 I had a watershed moment,” he says. “Doing gardens was my hobby but it was taking up more and more of my spare time, and as I was no longer fulfilled as a lecturer, I decided to go for it full time.”

“In recent years there has been a subtle shift towards gardens that look less designed, that are more sustainable, more naturalistic and have more space for wildlife. But whatever the current trends, I get most of my work from personal recommendations, so I must be doing something right!” And so say all of us! www.stevenkelvingardens.com

Dozens of commercial and private projects later, with a smattering of exciting overseas briefs in the mix, and Steven can have no regrets. So is there a typical project or client?

“I have no template,” he answers without a second’s hesitation. “Every project I take on is bespoke, whether it’s a small private garden or one of my many projects in the hospitality sector, like the Boston Tea Party chain of cafés across the West Country.”

NEWBRIDGE GARDEN “One minute I can be doing a modest project in Highworth and the next minute a huge scale project in Massachusetts with an £18,000 spend just on trees. I’ve worked with a country hotel in Herefordshire with a 15-acre estate and vineyards, so I had to learn about viticulture.

Originally a sloping lawn with a wonky wall and limited parking our brief was to create a contemporary space that reflected the couple’s stylish interior (they are both photographers and have a strong sense of the visual).

RIVERSIDE GARDEN, BATH This photo represents a section from a larger job to transform an overgrown sloping bank that leads down to the river Avon (just out of shot) in central Bath. The steps are made from cut to size limestone planks and as you descend they appear to 'float' as no edges are visible and any gaps are planted to help with the illusion. The curved, tapering wall is block and render with a further patio and seating area in the lower section overlooking the river made from 'Midnight' Slate material.

The remaining lower area uses a small shingle gravel and planted with a carpet of various varieties of scented spreading Thyme.

The planting visible in this photo has a Carex and Vinca Minor for the small spaces between the paving/steps with the main bed containing a mix of …. Nepata 'Six Hills Giant', Sage (Salvia) both Purple and Green, Stachys 'Silver Carpet', Heuchera 'various', Perovskia, Carex ' Phoenix Green', Eupatorium rugosum 'Chocolate' and for the larger backdrop planting... Euclyptus, Pittosporums 'various', Acer Palmatum and for the grasses Miscanthus and Stipa.

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GARDENS

NATIONAL TRUST

A WEEK IN THE LIFE OF A NATIONAL TRUST GARDENER 33 | ISSUE No.3

WIGWAM GOES BEHIND THE SCENES AT WILTSHIRE’S DYRHAM PARK WITH GARDENER EXTRAORDINAIRE PIERS HORRY. a challenge to keep up with successive displays. New tactics are needed. Since we are preparing for a tough year on our budgets, we have chosen to keep seedlings that can flower (on the condition they behave and stay in their own border).

Self-seeded yarrow, marigolds and doronicum are given special permission to develop. I prefer this natural approach to gardening, although it’s not really in the spirit of a baroque garden. I am sure next year when they dominate I will regret the decision.

I am the new Garden and Outdoor Manager at the National Trust’s Dyrham Park near Bath. I am responsible for the formal gardens and parkland, achieving high horticulture, historical representation, visitor experience and benefits for nature conservation. I have worked for the National Trust for many years at different properties around the country including Hughenden Manor, Hatchlands Park, Clandon Park and the South Downs.

I recently relocated to Bristol for my new role at Dyrham and began just two days before lockdown, so I had many lonely days in the garden getting to discover the secret nooks and crannies. Many staff are still on furlough including the Head Gardener and Countryside Manager for Prior Park and Bath Skyline, so I am temporarily taking responsibility for the management of those properties.

I am duty manager today, meaning I am the first person to react to radio calls. Today I was asked, “Can you tell me what the red plant is in the garden?”. I know several hundred red flowers and Dyrham is 270 acres but after a game of 20 questions I eventually identified the ‘lily-looking plant by the water’ as Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’, so vibrant right now it can be seen from the other side of the garden.

Dyrham was created by William Blathwayt in the 17th century to be an architectural tour de force. The original garden was immortalised in Johannes Kip’s 1710 engraving showing a formal baroque water garden expanding to the horizon.

Over time the garden was lost. The National Trust have been creating a new garden reminiscent of the original garden, with the flair of modern horticulture.

Wednesday 8th July 2020 We recently installed cider apple espaliers on the avenue to match the pear espaliers on the house. When giving these a tidy-up prune it is always a constant decision-making process as to which branches to cut. One particular apple has a leader (main upright stem) that refuses to follow orders, yet no one wants to risk cutting it off as it is the healthiest plant.

Monday 6th July 2020

During lockdown the apple trees had an influx of aphids.

The little blighters must have thought we weren’t looking.

Thankfully my team spotted this early and we decided to bring in the help of ladybirds. We ordered these online and next day a box of hungry ladybirds arrived. We mobilised these natural predators into the avenue and they performed wonderfully, bringing the aphid outbreak under control.

Today is my first day back after a welcome four days’ leave.

My cycle ride through the stunning Cotswolds to work is a good time to reflect on the year so far. I started my new role at Dyrham as the Garden and Outdoor Manager two days before lockdown and it felt like a sprint for the first three months: deciding where the skeleton team should focus its attention, keeping on top of weeds and getting up to speed with guidance.

The quarantine area is looking a little crowded, so my Senior Gardener was desperate to get planting. We quarantine all our plants for six weeks if they weren’t grown onsite and thoroughly check them for pests and diseases to be sure we aren’t introducing any infections into the garden. We bolstered the pool border with Actaea simplex 'Pink Spike' to prepare for some late summer colour.

The day started as every day has started in this job – disinfecting tools, workspaces and toilets. On the plus side, the garden workshop is looking the best it has ever looked and I could almost eat my dinner off the workspace!

The task for the day is weeding in the Avenue Borders. To look at them today you would not have believed how they looked in May. The rosebay willowherb became a micro-woodland and I felt like an explorer searching for the yew saplings hidden beneath the canopy. I struggle to convince myself that forgetme-not is a weed and the occasional clump has been spared my hand but the more I dwell on its name, the more I feel that I should return to the border and pull it out.

There was joy in finding self-seeded plants coming up such as lavender, lupins, Chionodoxa and calendula. As long as they keep socially distant from the young yews and don’t outcompete them, they have my permission to stay.

Tuesday 7th July 2020 As a gardener we rarely look at the now, our minds are always planning 18 months down the line. Visitors regularly tell us how beautiful the gardens are and what a good job we have done to maintain them throughout lockdown, but it’s

©National Trust Images/James Dobson

©National Trust Images/James Dobson

Last week was a milestone in the meander of 2020 as Dyrham reopened the garden to visitors. The team put in an enormous amount of work in readiness to welcome visitors back.

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GARDENS

NATIONAL TRUST

©National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Thursday 9th July Nature has reclaimed the ‘lost terraces’ – walking around the terraces today I saw a beautiful wildflower meadow tucked into a glade and paths have become criss-crossed by bramble and elderberry.

I want to see this reopened to the public as it is one of my favourite spaces at Dyrham for peace, quiet and some solitary reflection. We are bringing a gardener back from furlough and, brush cutter and hedge cutter in hand, will set him to work in this area.

When it reopens it will have to be a one-way system as the narrow paths are what makes the terraces special, allowing people to walk in single file and enjoy a moment with their own thoughts. This concept of creating serpentine walks on pleasure grounds was popular in the 18th century, and the idea appeals as much today as it did then.

Friday 10th July If you haven’t been to Dyrham, it is situated on a hillside at the edge of the Cotswolds. From the Viewpoint you can see the score of the Severn estuary against the backdrop of the Brecon Beacons, while Bristol city peeks out from behind hills. The view is breathtaking and an absolute wonder.

Due to the current restrictions we are not sharing vehicles, so meetings with contractors mean a hilly walk from my office at the bottom of the hill as many as three times in one day. It does mean I am forced to take a break and look around the parkland.

During lockdown, the grassland took the opportunity to become a meadow, giving us a vision that hasn’t been seen at Dyrham before. Looking at the east front, with hay swaying in the wind, is like a massage for the mind.

The parkland is managed as a calcareous (chalky) wildflower meadow. To do this we need to promote the seeds of the wildflowers by cutting or grazing in late summer and by removing the nutrient from the grassland to inhibit the competitive species. We monitor this through wildflower surveys – the presence of crested dogstail, red fescue and sweet vernal grass is a thumbs up to our parkland management, showing we are doing our conservation job correctly.

Piers Horry nationaltrust.org.uk/dyrham-park

IF YOU HAVEN’T BEEN TO DYRHAM, IT IS SITUATED ON A HILLSIDE AT THE EDGE OF THE COTSWOLDS.

35 | ISSUE No.3

©National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

©National Trust Images/Piers Horry

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LIFESTYLE

FOREST TO HOME

37 | ISSUE No.3

CREATING HAPPY HOMES WITH SOLID TIMBER FURNITURE FOREST TO HOME’S BESPOKE FURNITURE DOESN’T JUST LOOK GOOD – IT MAKES US FEEL GOOD TOO. Have you ever noticed how you’re drawn to solid timber furniture? Unlike manmade materials, we often instinctively reach out to run our hands over a wooden table or chair. In comparison to plastic or metal, it’s tactile, textured and tempting to touch.

Given that craftsmen have been harnessing nature’s bounty for thousands of years, it’s perhaps no surprise that we have a deep-rooted affinity for timber. But this isn’t just because it looks good. Solid timber furniture makes us feel good too.Timber is simply great for our wellbeing, and there’s plenty of research to prove it. Studies suggest children are more relaxed and perform better in timber classrooms, while workers immersed in wooden interiors seem to have lower stress levels.

In our homes, timber furniture looks inviting – and it has a deeply calming effect too. Soft and warm to the touch, wood gives us a sense of security and allows us to embrace our age-old connection to the natural world. Interior designers even credit it with increasing creativity and decreasing stress, something we’d all probably welcome in our lives.

And the benefits don’t stop there. Factories and smog-filled cities might spring to mind when we think about air pollution, but it can be closer to home than we realise. If we don’t ventilate our houses, damp, dust and gases can build up over time, possibly causing coughs, wheezes and itchy noses.

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wigwamswindon.co.uk | 40

Yet timber has an amazing ability to improve our air quality. It’s less likely to attract dust and it naturally regulates humidity levels too – in damp conditions it absorbs moisture, and in dry conditions it releases that moisture back into the air. The upshot? A soothing, family-friendly space.

Here at Forest to Home, we’re no stranger to timber’s many benefits. In fact, we experience them every day in our workshop, deep in the heart of Wiltshire’s forested countryside. Every table, desk and sideboard we create is handcrafted from slabs of sustainably sourced and grown ash, walnut and oak. Beautiful and durable, our furniture enables our clients – and us – to embrace nature’s incredible powers into our hearts and homes.

So, the next time you find yourself standing next to an oak dining table or sinking into a long-loved wooden chair, stop for a second to think about how it makes you feel. As you run your fingers over its mellow surface, tracing the knots and grains, we think you’ll understand just how good it is for the soul.

Samuel Baker Creative Director, Forest To Home foresttohome.com

TIMBER HAS AN AMAZING ABILITY TO IMPROVE OUR AIR QUALITY

GARDENS

VIVID PODS

OUR FAVOURITE GARDEN ROOM TRENDS OF 2020 43 | ISSUE No.3

DUAL USE GARDEN SPACE. Arguably the pandemic has made us all think about what a garden office can do for us. The Vivid pods range of garden studios are perfectly set up to turn your garden into an outdoor usable dual purpose space.

We have undertaken a handful of projects during the current lockdown which offer just this.

From garden offices to home gyms, yoga studios, cinema rooms, pet grooming, physiotherapy, hobby studios, bbq/bar rooms, and pool houses.

SMART LIGHTING. While smart lighting seems to be an expensive trend, the fact is that it doesn’t need to cost the earth! Subtle lighting designs combined with smart app controlled lighting technology combines the past, present, and future at a relatively low starting price of £100!

CEDAR/THERMOWOOD/ COMPOSITE CLADDING.

SPACE SAVING. While minimalist living is in, when it comes to the perfect garden studio, space saving is a must!

Cladding with a shadow gap design is most certainly in trend right now. And if you are interested in just how trendy this is, check out the Southville Eco Pod on our Garden Pods page.

We have various cladding options from cedar, thermowood, larch, composite, render and many more.

We can help design the internal layout and not compromise on style or your needs.

DECKING & RAISED GARDEN SLEEPERS. Decking and raised garden sleepers with a well thought out garden lighting arrangement add a touch of class to any back garden and also add value to your home, whilst creating a functional usable space year round.

Whether you’re in the process of deciding on a garden studio from our range or just thinking about it, please get in contact with us and we can chat through our various options available.

vividpods.co.uk

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INSPIRATION

HOUSE PLANTS

BRINGING THE OUTSIDE IN! It only takes a quick scroll of Instagram or Pinterest to see that house plants are back in fashion. A huge part of the wellness movement and a firm favourite with interior designers once again, succulents and cacti have the power to bring a touch of horticultural style to every room in the house.

Options with indoor plants are endless – hang them from ceilings, dress floating shelves or plant them in stylish sea grass baskets. Create your very own urban oasis and let your imagination run wild – just don’t forget to look after your new greenery!

For more interior design inspiration check out www.redrow.co.uk/inspiration To purchase fabulous house plants in Swindon visit www.rosyleaflorist.com

45 | ISSUE No.3

GOING GREEN – HOW LOCKDOWN HAS CHANGED HOUSE BUYERS’ PRIORITIES

Before the coronavirus lockdown, estate agents would often ask whether a house passed the ‘pint of milk’ test. These days it’s the ‘blade of grass’ test, as a short walk to the local shop has been overtaken on buyers’ wish lists by the desire for a garden or proximity to green space.

Gardens have always been a big selling point, of course, but after people have spent months cooped indoors, estate agents are saying they can now make or break a property deal. And depending on the type of property, any sort of outside space adds value; whether it’s a large garden, a small patio or even a balcony.

As for proximity to green spaces, Swindon scores big time on this criteria with pretty much every neighbourhood in the town within easy walking distance of an attractive outdoor space - Lydiard Park, Coate Water, Town Gardens, Shaw Forest Park, among others.

According to stats compiled by Hamptons International, evidence of the desire for green spaces can be found in the sales figures, where it’s clear that homes with greenery attached are selling faster and for higher prices than they were before the coronavirus outbreak. On average, a home with a garden in the UK that sold in July had been on the market for 50 days, whereas a home without one sat on the market for 121 days.

As homes with gardens are being snapped up, there are fewer of them to meet this rising demand and homes with gardens are commanding significantly higher prices. Family homes with southfacing gardens sell for £21,768 more on average than homes without one in the South West, a 6 per cent premium according to a post-lockdown study by Rightmove.

In fact, there were double the number of searches for homes with gardens on the property portal in June compared with last year.

It’s not just about having a luscious lawn – the most desirable gardens appear to be extensions of the house itself. Anecdotally, agents report that alfresco dining features are popular, such as pizza ovens, barbecue areas, and undercover, heated patios, while vegetable patches have become fertile ground for buyers and sellers to bond over on viewings.

In cities or big towns like Swindon, outside space has also become more desirable for people living in flats. One in seven buyers say having a balcony is more important to them than it was before the lockdown, and according to those polled by YouGov, this increases to one in four 18 to 24-year-olds, who are more likely to live in flats than those in other age groups.

Park? – is prized highly nowadays, and can significantly increase the price of your property. One in four British buyers say that living near parks or nature is more important to them now.

Access to greenery means the most to young families in particular – 25 to 34-year-olds with children aged four and under were the top category for those who said they valued these spaces more after lockdown.

In fact, demand for outside space has shot up the most among the buyers who can least afford it.

Younger first-time buyers, who once may have compromised to get on the property ladder, now see the value of outside space, with 41 per cent of 25 to 34-year-olds and 38 per cent of first-time buyers saying a garden was more important to them now. Surprisingly, even 44 per cent of full-time students now say gardens are a primary concern to them.

The desire for outside space and/ or greenery on your doorstep may prove to be a short-lived phenomenon, prompted by the extraordinary events of the past few months, but it’s also possible that months of being locked away indoors could have a longer term impact on buyers’ wish lists.

Even being near green space – and did we mention Stanton Park, the Lawns, Barbury Castle or Queen’s

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LIFESTYLE MIELE

ENJOY AN AUTHENTIC BARISTA EXPERIENCE AT HOME WITH MIELE’S NEW FREESTANDING COFFEE MACHINES Good news for coffee connoisseurs! The crack team at Miele have redesigned their popular CM5 and CM6 freestanding bean-to-cup coffee machines to offer the ultimate in professional-style countertop appliances.

As well as promising barista-quality coffee from the comfort of your own home, the new CM5 collection benefits from considerably reduced noise levels for a smoother, quieter cappuccino, flat white or latte. The new CM6 designs come with improved milk froth thanks to an innovative double valve and features WifiConn@act for voice control, app operation and even online ordering and current cleaning status.

Available from September 2020, the coffee machines are available in a selection of on-trend finishes including Rose Gold, Obsidian Black and Graphite Grey. The all-new designs feature a conical grinder, which lends itself to an authentic extraction for results that are rich in flavour, allowing you to bring your favourite coffee shop beverages directly into your kitchen at any time of the day.

Neil Pooley, category manager for cooking appliances for Miele GB says, “The CM5 and CM6 range of coffee machines will not only add style and substance to kitchens but they are also in line with our aim to become ever more sustainable and considered in the way we design, manufacture and supply appliances of every size and style.”

47 | ISSUE No.3

LIFESTYLE MIELE

KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF THE MIELE CM5 AND CM6 FREESTANDING COFFEE MACHINES:

PLEASANTLY QUIET

IMPROVED RINSING

The new CM5 Silence collection boasts ultra-quiet noise levels with quieter grinding and coffee production for the perfect cup, in perfect peace.

No more disconnecting and refitting the milk line for cleaning.

When you select a Miele CM6 MilkPerfection model, the milk line comes with an auto rinsing feature. There is also a new double milk hose - the first tube runs from the milk container to the coffee machine and the second returns the rinse water to the drip tray.

MILKPERFECTION The new Miele CM6 MilkPerfection offers improved milk froth for cappuccinos and frothy coffees due to its innovative double venture valve. The double Venturi process with double steam offers significantly improved milk froth quality and high milk froth temperature for barista-style coffee, whenever you want it.

UPDATED FACIAS AND WIFICONN@ACT The CM6 now has more coffee options than ever before with the introduction of Espresso Macchiato and Flat White.

To further enhance the user experience, Miele has added a plethora of tea options where the water temperature is set to take care of the delicate leaves and a timer will activate for exact brew times. New software and WifiConn@act allow users total freedom thanks to a variety of easy to use smart controls. ShopConn@act offers convenient online ordering and current cleaning status. MobileControl enables you to start drinks preparation remotely or adjust settings when out and about. BaristaAssistant lets you create your favourite recipes, VoiceControl allows you to start drinks off or query a status using Amazon Alexa, while SuperVision provides an overview of all Miele WifiConn@act appliances.

49 | ISSUE No.3

MILK CONTAINER Miele’s CM6 MilkPerfection is designed with the same milk jug as Miele’s built-in coffee machines.

Made from glass, it enables the liquid to be seen from the outside for easy cleaning. It fits perfectly in your fridge door when you’re not using it and it’s also dishwasherproof too.

MODELS WITHIN THE CM5 AND CM6 COLLECTION:

MIELE CM5310 SILENCE COFFEE MACHINE – PRICE GUIDE £899

MIELE CM5410 SILENCE COFFEE MACHINE – PRICE GUIDE £939

MIELE CM5510 SILENCE COFFEE MACHINE – PRICE GUIDE £949

Available in Obsidian Black and Tayberry Red, this model features OneTouch for Two, allowing you to make two of the same coffee specialities at once at the touch of a button. You also have a coffee pot function for up to eight cups into a pot placed under the spout. The CM Silence range creates a perfectly brewed espresso, cappuccino, latte and macchiato with auto rinsing and easy-clean programmes.

In a striking Obsidian Black, this design comes with all the above features as well as a hot water function and two user profiles for personalised settings allowing you to program in your perfect cup of coffee for quick results.

Offering a high-end pearl finish, this appliance comes in a Rose Gold or Alusilver PearlFinish and features all the benefits of the CM5 collection with a stunning on-trend look.

MIELE CM6160 MILKPERFECTION COFFEE MACHINE – PRICE GUIDE £1,249

MIELE CM6360 MILKPERFECTION COFFEE MACHINE – PRICE GUIDE £1,349

MIELE CM6560 MILKPERFECTION COFFEE MACHINE – PRICE GUIDE £1,499

In Obsidian Black or Lotus White, this model offers an exciting choice of beverages such as Espresso Macchiato, Flat White and a variety of teas as well as an Expert Mode that adjusts water volume and the amount of milk/ foam to suit your preference. A Performance Mode allows access to Eco, Barista, Latte and Party options, perfect for any occasion. The CM6160 can be operated via an app thanks to WifiConn@ct and includes four programmable user profiles.

Available in Lotus White and Obsidian Black CleanSteel Metallic, this design comes with eight programmable user profiles, milk siphon and milk container. It also creates a wide range of drinks with Expert Mode, PerformanceMode and professional-standard milk froth.

With a choice of two on-trend pearl finishes, Graphite Grey and Obsidian Black, this top-ofthe-range model includes all the above features as well as a voucher for a coffee flask and 1kg of Miele’s Fairtrade and organic coffee beans. www.miele.co.uk

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RESTAURANT MITCH BBQ ILLUSTRA RECIPES TO COOK AT HOME

51 | ISSUE No.3

Q

GRILLED CHILEAN BEEF KEBABS WITH CHIMICHURRI SAUCE

Grilled Chilean Beef Kebabs with Chimichurri Sauce make an easy flavourful meal, inside or out in the garden. Substitute cremini mushrooms for the beef for a vegan alternative.

INGREDIENTS: KEBABS

INSTRUCTIONS

•

01. Soak 8x10 inch skewers in warm water.

2 lbs beef- tenderloin, ribeye, sirloin, cut into 1 ½ inch cubes ( or sub 1 pound cremini mushrooms) 1/8 cup oil 1/8 cup lime juice, plus zest of one lime 2 cloves garlic- finely minced 1 tablespoon Badia “complete” Seasoning ( or sub 1 tsp onion powder,1 tsp dried oregano or thyme, 1 teaspoon cumin) 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper note: If not using the Badia seasoning, add one more teaspoon salt skewer additions: cherry or grape tomatoes, sweet onions smokey Chimichurri Sauce

MITCH BBQ ILLUSTRA • • • •

• • •

•

•

INGREDIENTS: SAUCE

• • • • • • • • •

1 bunch cilantro 1/2 cup olive oil 1/8 cup lime juice 1 jalapeno ( or use less for less spicy) 1/2 cup chopped onion 1 garlic clove 1 teaspoon coriander 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/2 teaspoon salt

02. Cut the beef into cubes and place in a zip lock bag or in a medium bowl.

03. Mix oil, lime juice and zest, garlic, spices, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Pour over the beef and seal the bag, shaking and mixing so all the beef is coated. Set aside on counter.

04. Pre heat the grill.

05. In a medium pot, add water and rice, bring to a boil. Cover, simmer on low heat for 20 minutes.

06. In the mean time, make the smokey chimichurri. Place all chimichurri ingredients in a food processor, and pulse repeatedly ( 10 to 15 times) until cilantro and onion are all minced well. It need not be smooth, but more like the consistency of pesto. Place in a small bowl. Set aside.

07. Make the skewers alternating beef, cherry tomato, onion slice, then repeat until skewer is full. You should have about 3- 4 pieces of beef on each skewer.

08. Grill the skewers over medium high heat, rotating until meat is nicely charred and cooked to desired done-ness.

09. Serve the beef skewers with the smokey chimichurri sauce.

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ASK THE EXPERT

OPTIMUM PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

IAIN MASON ANSWERS YOUR QUESTIONS Iain Mason Head of Legal Optimum Professional Services imason@optps.co.uk

53 | ISSUE No.3

SOLICITOR IAIN MASON, HEAD OF LEGAL AT SWINDON PROFESSIONAL SERVICES COMPANY OPTIMUM, ANSWERS YOUR QUESTIONS ABOUT HOMEBUYING AND SELLING

Q: I AM LOOKING TO BUY A PROPERTY AND UNDERSTAND THERE HAVE BEEN SOME CHANGES TO STAMP DUTY LAND TAX. HOW MUCH SHOULD I EXPECT TO PAY?

Q: I AM SELLING A PROPERTY AND BELIEVE I MAY INCUR CAPITAL GAINS TAX. IF SO, HOW MUCH WILL I PAY AND WHEN SHOULD I MAKE THE PAYMENT?

In his Statement in July, the Chancellor announced a Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) ‘holiday’ and this applies to all residential property purchases, including first-time buyers and those who are buying a second home or additional homes. Commercial property rates remain the same.

Capital Gains Tax (CGT) doesn’t apply if you are selling your main residence. However, if this is a second or additional home you are selling, then CGT may be liable, and is calculated on the difference in what you paid for the property and what you sold it for (the profit).

The holiday runs until March 31st 2021,and until then, any purchase of a single property under £500,000 will be exempt from SDLT. For purchases of £500,001 and over, SDLT kicks in at different amounts depending on the price.

Everyone has an annual CGT allowance, which is currently £12,300.

So if the gain you have made, plus any other profit you have made from sale of capital, doesn’t take you over this threshold, then again you have nothing to pay.

However, it is important to note that those buying an additional home still have to pay the higher rate of SDLT, being a 3% surcharge on usual rates. During the holiday, this will mean SDLT for purchases under £500,000 is 3%.

However, if you are liable to CGT, then there has been an important change to when this needs to be paid to HMRC. All CGT owing now has to be paid within 30 days of completion of the sale. This is a big difference from previously, when the payment did not need to be made until the end of the January after the tax year in which the gain arose.

You will not pay the extra 3% SDLT if the property you’re buying is replacing your main residence and that has already been sold. If you have not sold your main residence on the day you complete your new purchase you’ll have to pay higher rates. This is because you own two properties. You can apply for a refund if you sell your previous main home within 36 months.

As for how much you will pay, this depends on whether you are a higher rate or basic rate taxpayer. If you are a basic rate taxpayer, you will pay 18% on any gain you make on selling a second or additional property. If you are a higher or additional rate taxpayer, you will pay 28%.

March 31st is only a few months away, so if you are thinking of moving or investing in property, now is a very good time to do so, to take advantage of this tax break.

There is also good news if you are buying a new build under the Help to Buy scheme. The Government has moved the deadline for builders to complete Help to Buy homes from December 31st 2020 to February 28th 2021. The legal completion date for most homebuyers remains at March 31st 2021.

Iain and his team specialise in conveyancing for residential and commercial property, as well as offering a comprehensive wills and probate service. For more information call 01793 538 198 or email info@optps.co.uk. optps.co.uk

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ASK THE EXPERT EXTENSION PRO

IS MY LOFT SUITABLE FOR A CONVERSION? Bradley Quesnel Managing Director ExtensionPro extensionpro.co.uk

55 | ISSUE No.3

BRADLEY QUESNEL FROM EXTENSIONPRO ON THE INS AND OUTS OF LOFT CONVERSIONS

WHAT HEAD HEIGHT IS NEEDED? Surprisingly, there’s no minimum ceiling height required for a loft conversion when it comes to building regulations. In fact, the only requirement you do need to fulfil is allowing two metres for your top of stairs height. You could crawl around in your new bedroom and no one would stop you (but they may judge you!).

On the whole, most designers will recommend you undertake a conversion if you’ve got over 2.2m of head height available throughout most of the room. If you don’t have that much height available, it doesn’t mean your loft conversion can’t go ahead. There are ways to increase head height, though things could get pricey. We’ll get on to this in just a moment.

WHAT IS THE PITCH? Pitch is a form of measurement used to calculate the angle of a roof. If you’re converting a loft, you’ll hear the term being thrown around a lot. When converting your loft, you’ll want a high level of pitch so the centre of your space gets decent head height.

DOES THE AGE OF A PROPERTY MAKE ANY DIFFERENCE? When it comes to structure, there’s one question most people should be asking: was my property constructed before or after 1960?

The reason for this is that roof construction changed dramatically after 1960. Previously, homes were built with a traditional framed roof, where the components were cut to size on site and then assembled. After 1960, this method was replaced by the use of factorymade roof trusses, aka the framework of the roof. These factory trusses are thinner (and therefore cheaper) and made stable by other diagonal timbers. The difference between these two structures is that the post 1960

spaces will usually require extra structural input in order to convert. That’s not to say converting is no longer on the table, but you will need to get a structural engineer on board, and skilled contractors.

WHAT IF THE LOFT IS ALREADY BEING USED? Just because you’re not living in your loft at the moment, doesn’t mean it’s not in use.

You might have water tanks already using that space, maybe even sat in the middle with a network of pipes going this way and that. If so, you’ll have to arrange for this to either be moved or removed altogether. Other obstacles you might have to contend with are chimneys or other structural features of your home. Obstacles don’t mean your loft can’t be converted, managing them will require a larger budget.

HOW COMPLICATED IS A LOFT CONVERSION? The time needed and complexity of your loft conversion will all depend on the factors we’ve touched on. More importantly, the work needed can have a dramatic effect on your budget, so before you go into this, make sure you’re going to get more money than you’re putting in. Here’s what you could be in for…

BASIC CONVERSION £15,000 - £25,000 Known as ‘room in roof’ loft conversion, this project will be the easiest for you to undertake and cost the least. As the nickname suggests, you’re taking an unused room and kitting it out, with no dramatic structural work needed.

If you don’t already have them, getting stairs installed will be the biggest part of your conversion. Having an architect on board will help you accommodate this into the rest of your house and will also help you maximise

space, so you get the most for your money.

You’ll be surprised how much space can be saved through clever design.

ADDING A DORMER £25,000 - £45,000 Though more expensive, a dormer loft conversion is one of the most popular with homeowners. Why? Because with a dormer you’re adding an extension onto your roof, creating more floor and head space for a truly impressive new room. Not only that, the extension eliminates those slanted walls, traditionally associated with lofts. Prices can vary with a dormer extension, as the extra room might tempt you to add two rooms into your loft, instead of one. If going for something like a bedroom and ensuite combination, your budget will need to stretch up to the £40k marker, though this can vary from region to region. However, you might see double that in value from these much soughtafter additions.

CHANGING ROOF STRUCTURE £15,000 - £25,000 If you want a loft conversion, but you don’t have the head height to make it possible, you could think about going big and actually rebuild your roof to raise the height. First things first, you’ll need to get planning permission in order to make this happen, you’ll also need to find a good architect and structural engineer to make your new roof not only look nice, but stay standing up. You may find these professionals charging more than other loft conversion designs, as more work will be required.

At ExtensionPro we offer all these services in-house! Victorian properties tend to cost between £5-£10,000 more than other homes, while bespoke builds can add an extra £1020,000 to the costs.

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ASK THE EXPERT PEBLEY BEACH

IS PULLING INTO THE PETROL STATION A THING OF THE PAST? Dominic Threlfall Managing Director Pebley Beach pebley.co.uk

57 | ISSUE No.3

DOMINIC THRELFALL, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF PEBLEY BEACH, ON ELECTRIC CHARGING POINTS FOR THE FRONT GARDEN

Another trip to the filling station – who needs it? Your daily commute into work is stressful enough without a pit stop.

And after work? Queuing for a pump, and standing – whatever the weather – next to your car holding a nozzle through which gasoline gushes to fill your empty tank.

It's all a bit last century, isn't it? You just want to get home and stick the kettle on.

Well, for a growing number of motorists, pulling into the petrol station forecourt has become a thing of the past.

If you park up on a driveway or in a garage, home charging means you can get to that cuppa quicker – and plugging your electric vehicle (EV) into your home power supply is as quick and as easy as, well, putting the kettle on.

You can charge your EV directly from a regular domestic three-pin socket, but the best option by far is a dedicated external home EV charger.

A 7kW home charger delivers approximately three times as much power and is approximately three times as fast as using a domestic socket.

Home chargers are also much safer as they are designed to deliver the correct level of power over long periods.

Typically, a home charging point with installation costs around £800 – cheaper

options start in the low hundreds, while more expensive units will cost you over £1,000 – although the government's Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) currently offers a grant of up to 75 percent of the cost, capped at £350.

Get your charging station professionally installed and you can rest easy in the knowledge that you're unlikely to overload your home or car circuitry.

Usually home chargers are wall-mounted, as opposed to the floor-mounted ones you'll find in public spaces. They're fairly unobtrusive – about the height and width of a larger tablet computer, and a little deeper.

Some come with flashes of bright colour (green is a common one for obvious reasons – perfect for announcing your environmental credentials to your neighbours even when your EV isn’t in the driveway) while others can look a bit utilitarian.

If you're really not keen on the look of the plastic or grey metal charging points, check out the eco-timber fronted charging points

by Andersen EV. There’s also a growing cottage industry in covers, which come in a range of materials and colours – so your charging point can match your own home and garden paintwork.

Once you have your EV charging point installed, it's worth contacting your electricity supplier, as many now offer a cheaper off-peak tariff which benefits night-time charging.

Oh, if you’re not able to park on your own premises – and so are unable to benefit from home charging – don’t fret: solutions are on the way.

EV charging point manufacturer Rolec is bringing to market an upgrade kit for street lights. The company says there are thousands of street lights throughout the UK, many of which have sufficient electricity available to also provide electric vehicle charging Finally, as well as convenience running an EV comes, of course, with major environmental benefits.

With more of our domestic power coming from renewable sources, driving an EV greatly reduces the amount of pollution your car generates – and that’s good news for your garden, good news for mine, and good news for everyone else’s.

Dominic Threlfall is managing director of Hyundai and Suzuki dealer Pebley Beach, based at Paddington Drive, Swindon. Pebley Beach was Swindon’s first motor dealer to be accredited by EVA, the Electric Vehicle Approved scheme, for its expertise in selling and maintaining electric vehicles. pebley.co.uk

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EXPERT OPINION CLARK HOLT

SO, I HAVE LIVED SOUTH OF SWINDON (NEAR MARLBOROUGH) FOR THE PAST 15 YEARS.

AN ENLIGHTENED VIEW OF SWINDON I’m from near Bath and my pull was that way despite both going to university and training as a solicitor in London, but my husband worked in London so his pull was that way. Marlborough was our compromise, therefore, and I got my “need for the countryside” fix and my husband got his “need for the city of London” fix by moving here. It’s been a great move, I have to say and I know lots of other families locally who recite a similar story. That said, I have never worked in Swindon until now- well January this year in fact - when I joined Clark Holt at their Old Town offices. My interaction with Swindon has been peripheral thus far. Yes, I come to Swindon for the cinema and my sons’ football fixtures but nothing else really, as I’ve habitually gone to Bath for a retail kick.

During Covid- lockdown, and having just started a new job, I found myself thinking about Swindon. A lot. A property lawyer should know their local market and I had a strong feeling of not knowing Swindon in that respect. And here’s the thing: I started my research into Swindon with a pessimistic point of view and I have come out an optimist. And I’m not just writing that for the sake of my audience or my career; anyone who knows me knows how unreservedly blunt and to the point I can be! But, yes, I’ve actually reformed my view of Swindon.

There was me thinking it’s a tired, depressed, old industrial town- not really going anywhere, but I’ve discovered that actually it has a lot going on currently on the property development and business investment front and there is a real appetite presently to elevate it out of its historic industrial roots.

And why not? It’s perfectly located in southern central England for business connectivity and it’s not hard to attract employees when the residential property values are comparatively cheap, plus the surrounding countryside is so beautiful and uplifting.

Talk to any local agents and developers/investors (those that will disclose their hands openly at least) and you find that they are hovering over it like eagles looking for the kill. It’s not merely one to watch, it's one to get involved in. Now. And this is great for the residents and businesses of Swindon alike.

Development wise, look at what is happening currently. Planning permission has been recently granted for 2500 new homes on the New Eastern Villages site (and that’s just the start of greater plans

for new homes on this site), Zurich is building a new HQ in the town centre, there are plans afoot (early days) to redevelop parts of the town centre.

Then there is the huge mystery shed (7 football pitches large) to be built on the outskirts- the occupant unknown- perhaps its Amazon- which will bring lots of jobs. Yes- Swindon is about to lose one of its major employers- Honda- but it will be interesting to see who buys that site and it will hopefully be replaced with something that brings more and perhaps different and varied employment opportunities. Plus, of course, now we’ve had/ are still in the midst of the Covid-pandemic, London/Reading businesses are increasingly looking down the M4 as they realise high business rental values combined with the knock-on effect of higher salaries to pay for employees to afford to live nearby is not something of necessity. Speak to local estate agents as well and you hear how the profile of buyers coming through is increasingly those looking to come west, away from London, for a better quality of life and lockdown has shown many that working from home does have some advantages- perhaps not all the time though.

Life has changed on so many fronts recently and it looks as though Swindon and its surrounding areas are about to go through a lot of change, perhaps benefiting in part as well from the fall-out of the pandemic. Property developers and businesses are increasingly eying it up as a great location, which it so obviously is. So, amidst all the doom and gloom presently, I have enjoyed looking into what is going on in Swindon and am enlightened by the positivity that I have discovered.

Renata Lovat Short Associate Commercial Real Estate Solicitor, Clark Holt clarkholt.co.uk

EXPERT OPINION

BISHOP'S MOVE

HOW TO MOVE HOME SAFELY DURING A PANDEMIC IS NOW THE RIGHT TIME TO MOVE?

HOW DO I BEGIN?

Moving home has always had the potential to be stressful, but add in the anxieties and restrictions caused by the current pandemic, and it can seem an overwhelming proposition. Yet, against all odds, the recent stamp duty holiday seems to have produced a mini property boom across the country with average asking prices 2.4% higher* than they were pre-lockdown.

As soon as you are thinking of moving, get in touch with your preferred removals company to arrange a home survey. Bishop’s Move will undertake this for free and safely by video link at a convenient day and time. This consultation will allow you to discuss all aspects of your move with a local expert, including what packing services you would like, whether any antiques or art work need bespoke crating, as well as chat through storage options (should you need them).

Following lockdown, many are looking to move nearer to family and friends, have a study to work from home or simply more outside space.

The pent up demand has seen local estate agents in Swindon reporting an increase in instructions, as well as a rise in viewings. So now could be your perfect time to move.

By doing this as early as possible in the moving process, you will not only get an idea of costs but you are more likely to get your preferred moving date, especially in July and August, when the school holiday period always increases demand.

WHY SHOULD I HIRE A REMOVALS COMPANY? When moving house, we all know to use professional services such as solicitors, mortgage advisors and estate agents, so why leave the ultimate handling of your personal possessions to friend and family or a potentially uninsured ‘man and van’ outfit. Booking an accredited removals company will ensure that your move remains a smooth one, especially during the current pandemic. We strongly recommend that you use a member of the British Association of Removers (bar.co.uk), such as ourselves, as you will then guarantee that your removals company are professionally trained to the highest of standard and adhere to Government COVID19 safety guidelines at all times.

“Nothing could have been improved. The removal team were professional, friendly, helpful and provided an outstanding service. We are so grateful to them for making a stressful few days so much easier.” Said Mr Millard, a recent Bishop’s Move customer.

WHAT ABOUT THE PACKING? A professional removals company will offer you a range of packing services, as each move is individual. Here at Bishop’s Move, we can securely wrap and pack the entire contents of your home or just pack the fragile items such as the china and glass. We can also build bespoke crates for any antiques or fine art that needs extra special handling. Plus, if you want to pack anything yourself, that’s not a problem, we will deliver boxes to you.

We also offer a ‘late key waiver’ to protect our customers from any extra unexpected costs should the home they are moving in to not be ready on time.

HOW MUCH DOES MOVING COST? This very much depends on a variety of factors, such as how many items you are moving, what packing services you require and where you are moving to, as this will dictate the size of the removal team and how many vehicles are at your disposal.

On average a 3 bedroom detached house move within Swindon could cost approximately £750.00.

Whether you are looking to move to Chobham Close, Hebdon Close or Royal Wootton Bassett, our removals team at Bishop’s Move Swindon have unrivalled local knowledge.

And if you are moving further afield, or even overseas, we can still help, as by being part of the Bishop’s Move group we have over 20 branches across the UK to support us, as well as an experienced international shipping team.

Julie Lyall Business Development Manager

DO I REALLY NEED INSURANCE? Most home policies do NOT cover your personally effects during a house move and this is why Bishop’s Move offer removals insurance to all our customers as an added safeguard.

Whilst we have an enviable record when it comes to looking after our clients possessions, with 165 years of experience behind us, we are realistic enough to know that accidents can happen from time to time.

Bishop’s Move Swindon bishopsmove.com

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EXPERT OPINION

STAR DEVELOPMENTS

JOE WALSH FROM STAR DEVELOPMENTS ON HIS CRITERIA FOR BUYING PROPERTIES AND THE BENEFITS OF ASTROTURF.

BRINGING THE OUTDOORS INDOORS, OR IS IT VICE VERSA? When buying properties, my criteria for the ‘finished product’ has always included the following three things: off road parking, south facing garden and a social kitchen.

We can’t change a property’s orientation so I make an effort to source properties with a south facing garden and the potential for creating the other two points. I’ve found this to be a great way of adding value to a property and also makes selling them on after completion of the works as easy for myself as possible.

There are of course lots of other things to consider like the area and what schools and other amenities are accessible, but once you’ve chosen your preferred area then it’s hard to go wrong if you tick off those three items. Check out the rest of the properties on the street too, you don’t want to overdo it and end up trying to sell the most expensive house on the street.

It seems like our desire for the social kitchen is now greater than ever with 80% of build projects we take on for clients involving the creation of an open plan living area with either bi-folding or sliding doors being a huge priority. The expanse of glass and the ability to open our rooms and incorporate the indoors with the outdoors is satisfying our cravings for space and openness in our homes.

During the height of the lockdown and the great weather we had, our sliding doors were rarely closed during the day and the rest of the house almost became surplus to requirement as we enjoyed soaking up the sunshine both in the house and garden.

Lunch and toys were frequently brought outside which proved the theory that with the doors opened up, the garden really was an extension of our living space.

Joe Walsh Builder, Developer, Investor Star Developments stardevelopments.co.uk

We have also jumped on the bandwagon of AstroTurf. We fitted it during lockdown and I can’t praise it enough and dare I say it, it’s actually more beneficial when the weather isn’t so great! The kids and the dogs can go out regardless of the weather and the worst that happens is they get a little wet, but that's it… no more muddy paws!

I’m not sure if I just hadn’t been listening before but it was only after we fitted the AstroTurf that I heard people commenting on how warm it can get from the sun. During the month of May we had continuous temperatures in the mid to late 20s and I can confirm that the AstroTurf did get really warm - actually to the point of it being slightly uncomfortable. We discovered that with a small sprinkling of water from the hose, it kept the temperature down, but it wasn’t like lying on the cool grass of a normal garden or park.

When weighing up the fact that I no longer need to mow the lawn, that it never looks untidy and that the dogs aren’t going to destroy it over the winter, I think its heat retaining quality is far from a reason to be put off, and with a busy lifestyle I am not missing the maintenance.

Now when I get home in the evening I can relax and enjoy a G&T in the garden, guilt free and not at the expense of mowing the lawn!

EXPERT OPINION

VANHEROES

NEED HELP MOVING? WHAT IF WE TOLD YOU THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT… We’ve all been there. You’ve got something that needs moving, but it’s too big for you to handle on your own. Maybe you’re moving house, or picking up that sofa you got for a bargain on Facebook Marketplace. Either way, you need a van – but how do you find one?

This is the idea behind VANHEROES, a Swindonbased startup on a mission to help everyday people get the job done with local man & van services.

To date, the platform is home to a handpicked community of over 100 professional van drivers and removal businesses in Swindon, and growing. Drivers, also known as “Heroes”, are each manually vetted and approved by the VANHEROES team, making sure important things like licenses, tax, and insurance are sorted before they can save the day.

Booking a job is done through the VANHEROES app, where users can simply list the items they need to move, choose a pickup and drop-off address, and select a preferred date and time for their job to take place. The app then calculates a quote instantly using a complex algorithm, ensuring a fast and competitive price every time.

Once the job is posted, it is added to a job board where it is accepted by an approved driver. These often range from small house moves, to large item deliveries and storage runs.

Users can request an extra helper or “Sidekick” to help load the van and safely carry heavy items inside the property if needed.

The app is packed with other helpful features to make booking and managing jobs a piece of cake. Payments are securely held on booking and transferred to the driver once the job is complete, so no need for any last minute negotiating. There is even a chat function to message drivers with any last minute questions before the big move!

The idea for the company came to CEO & Founder Shane Moore after he was unable to find a local van driver to help pick up a secondhand Wendy house for his daughter.

Frustrated with the inconvenience and timeconsuming process of renting a van himself, he knew there needed to be an easier way to find local van drivers looking for work.

Since launching the app in 2018, VANHEROES has grown to serve a network of over 1,000 customers, with mounting support from homeowners and local businesses in Swindon.

Hamlyn Deas, Managing Director & Co-Founder of VANHEROES, thinks that Swindon was always the perfect place to launch the app: “People often compare what we’re doing to apps like UBER and Deliveroo, but I always see VANHEROES as an enabler for removal services, not a competitor. There are loads of brilliant removal companies and professional van drivers in Swindon, all with years of experience. Our goal is to connect those people and help them get regular work at a good price, all while offering an easy and affordable service for everyday people.

“I recently became a homeowner myself, buying my first house in Swindon just last year. I think everyone in Swindon knows it’s a great place to live, especially younger people looking to buy for the first time. If VANHEROES can make the already stressful process of moving house (or even one piece of furniture) a little bit easier – or save someone’s Saturday from the pain of renting a van – I feel like that’s just another win for everyone!

“Swindon is an up-and-coming town, and it’s great to see people and businesses embracing what we are trying to do. London or Bristol may have felt like a better place to launch an app like VANHEROES, but we always felt there was untapped potential here in Swindon. There’s a real need for a service like ours, and it’s been amazing to help prove that our town is an exciting, modern place to start a home – as well as a business.”

The VANHEROES app is available now on iOS and Android for Swindon and surrounding areas, with future plans to expand. Users can refer friends to both receive 10% off their next removal job. vanheroes.co.uk

Hamlyn Deas Managing Director & Co-Founder

VANHEROES vanheroes.co.uk

wigwamswindon.co.uk | 62

EXPERT OPINION BOWER & BAILEY

EVICTIONS UPDATE UNDER THE CORONAVIRUS ACT 2020 The changes introduced by the Act have been unsettling for many landlords who were in the middle of an eviction process so they could move into their property, renovate their premises or sell it etc. Needless to say, it gave rise to a lot of uncertainty for tenants also. However, we hope that the uncertainty will not last for much longer for either landlords or tenants.

The government has announced that the suspension of housing evictions which was put in place during the COVID-19 outbreak will be extended to 23 August 2020. The government is also creating a working group that will consider arrangements to assist the courts and vulnerable tenants when the stay is eventually lifted.

The extension will also apply to homeowners and possession proceedings relating to commercial and leasehold properties.

The changes are to apply in England and Wales.

Whilst there will no longer be a stay on possession proceedings or enforcement after 23 August, the provisions which require a residential landlord to give extended notice periods and which prevent a commercial landlord from forfeiting for non-payment of rent will continue until at least 30 September 2020 under the Act. After 23 August 2020 if you are a landlord seeking to relist your claim, you must comply with certain requirements such as issuing a notice to court. The notice to court must confirm your knowledge as to the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the tenant and their dependents. Where the claim is based on rent arrears the claimant must also provide an updated rent account for the previous two years. A similar requirement applies to claims to be issued following the suspension.

Reema Chug Dispute Resolution Solicitor Bower Bailey bowerandbailey.co.uk

NEW APPOINTMENT EXPANDS FAMILY DEPARTMENT Wiltshire law firm, Goughs Solicitors, welcome a new appointment to the growing family law team. The legal 500 accredited law firm, who opened their seventh office earlier this year, are delighted to be continuing their growth and expansion in welcoming a new member to the team.

Mark Hood will be based at the firm’s Trowbridge office and works across a range of family matters including divorce and separation, financial matters, injunctions and arrangements for children. With an impressive military career already under his belt, Mark will also become a key member of the firm’s Armed Forces sector which actively looks to support and advise members of the armed forces community. With an understanding that military lives can be even more complicated than civilian, Goughs is a signatory to the Armed Forces Corporate Covenant committing to supporting those in the field.

Richard Bebb, Partner in the family department and head of the armed forces sector commented, “We are delighted to welcome Mark to Goughs and I am certain that with his extensive range of experience he will become a great asset not only to the firm, the family department and the armed forces sector, but to the local community as a whole”.

On joining Goughs, Mark said, “I am grateful to be joining such a well-established law firm with a large family team and a sterling reputation. Having spent 20 years in the military, often travelling the world, I can’t think of a better place to be situated, enabling me to spend more time with my family whilst embarking on this new and exciting career. The opportunities at Goughs to develop your career and your role within the firm are unmatched. Great emphasis has been placed not only on recruitment, but also on the firm’s strategic direction and overall vision which is really exciting for everyone involved.” goughs.co.uk

63 | ISSUE No.3

Let Us Create Your Happy Place extensionpro.co.uk | 01793 387 205

The team at ExtensionPro specialise in making the most of your home and the land around it. We delve deeply into how you live and use your property to enable us to produce an extension design that suits your needs, fits your budget and looks absolutely amazing!

Our one-stop service means we carry out the complete design, planning, building regulations, structural calculation and other legalities on your behalf, with your dedicated project manager overseeing the whole

process! Meaning a clear and concise process, with no hidden costs or delays along the way.

We can then construct the extension on your behalf ensuring your build is in safe hands, working with a company you already know and trust!

LIFESTYLE

VISIT SWINDON

EXPLORE COATE WATER COUNTRY PARK There are many reasons why Coate Water remains one of Swindon’s most popular sites of interest, particularly for local residents. It is a serene place, perfect for walking the dogs or introducing the children to the geese. A 56-acre reservoir, originally built in the 1820s as a waterhead tank for the Wiltshire and West Berkshire canal, takes centre stage, ringed by a charming woodland walk lying adjacent to protected meadows of grasses and wildflowers. It’s a fine day out, a peaceful refuge for visitors and locals alike.

There are plenty of opportunities to get active at Coate Water, especially if you’re a fan of swinging a golf iron for an afternoon. For the young ‘uns and the adult children amongst you, the Pitch & Putt and Crazy Golf courses are sure to put a smile on your face, whilst during the summer months the park opens a Splash Park, helping the family to stretch their legs and and cool off under vibrant hoses and fountains. There is also a sandy play area for climbing, sliding, swinging, and, of course, playing tag.

There are numerous local clubs and activity groups based at Coate seeking new members. The Swindon Rowing Club is a volunteer organisation catering to all different ages and skill levels (the youngest member is 13 and the oldest is 73), and Coate is the ideal place to host them. The lake, shared with other water enthusiasts in kayaks, sailing boats, and canoes, is a thousand meters long, allowing rowers to pick up speed and challenge themselves to build their fitness and agility. For such an opportunity, the membership and Learn2Row schemes are

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pleasantly cheap, too! But if you’re passing through or do not have the inclination to get into a boat, Coate Water is a fantastic place to put one foot in front of the other in the name of burning calories. The path surrounding the reservoir serves as an excellent running route, and local groups such as the Swindon Shin Splints often use it as the base for their weekly meet.

Coate’s natural bounty is a particular draw, attracting birdwatchers, ramblers and enthusiasts of all stripes. The area is marked as a place of biological scientific interest and a nature reserve due to its distinctive biome of flora and fauna. Everyone can have a joyous time feeding the ducks and the swans, and for the ornithologists amongst you may be able to catch tits, warblers, herons and grebes soaring over the waters or plying the banks for nesting sites. Fishing is also a popular hobby at Coate Water.

There are permits available for those who need a spot just for the day, and options for part-time anglers who adore pitching tents overnight to try their luck at catching a whopper. It’s times like these where the BBQ sites at the park might come in handy…

Coate’s skyline is dominated by the recognizable, muchloved, Grade 2-listed Art Deco diving platform, and whilst it is not in active use, it is certainly a distinctive element to the aesthetics of the park. Without even mentioning the café, the leisurely model railway track, and the intriguing history that surrounds the park, it is no secret that Coate Water is one of the most cherished places in town. It is a reputation well-deserved, indeed.

1. CRAZY GOLF Stretch those arms and legs with this family-friendly sport! The crazy golf at Coate Water has been a firm favourite for countless Saturday afternoons and will be for countless more. Collect your clubs at the café and enjoy some leisurely putting.

2. RICHARD JEFFERIES MUSEUM Adjacent to the park lies this quaint museum dedicated to the life and works of Richard Jefferies, a Victorian naturalist and author known for his beloved renderings of the Wiltshire countryside. The museum itself is based in the farmhouse owned by the Jefferies family, populated by manuscripts, paintings and memorabilia from the author’s life. All part of the rich tapestry that comprises Coate’s history.

3. FISHING With long and short-term permits available, Coate is one of the finest locations for fishing in Swindon. Whether you’re an early riser or a night angler, this is a wonderful spot for relaxing into nature whilst searching for that perfect carp. For fishing price information, visit the Swindon Borough Council website.

4. COATE CAFÉ Take a break from the morning run or the all-day ramble to score a hot drink, a bacon sarnie and something sweet. This must be why the ducks never seem particularly in want of a meal...

5. PITCH AND PUTT GOLF COURSE If you’re a more seasoned golfer with a mean swing, you might be tempted to try the 9 hole course adjacent to Coate’s stunning reservoir. The full pitch and putt experience is relatively inexpensive and two participants will be set and ready to go for less than the price of lunch.

6. ROWING CLUB Coate’s volunteer rowing club introduces all ages and skill levels to this exciting waterborne sport. Challenge yourself with making new friends whilst zooming along the reservoir during their Learn2Row beginners courses.

7. SPLASH PARK Hot out? Bring the kids to the Coate Water Splash Park for some slippery, slidey entertainment. The park is open during the summer months from 11am-5pm. Entry is free but there is a limited parking charge.

8. BIRD WATCHING Budding ornithologists amongst you will find delight in observing both the familiar and the rarer species that visit this protected wildlife reserve. Whether you’re there to meet the swans or on the hunt for something more elusive, Coate offers a grand day out for birdwatchers of all stripes.

9. PLAY PARK Coate’s sandy play park is a great place to blow off steam with climbing, running, swinging and sliding. Note: this park is suitable for children and big kids who also happen to be adults alike.

10. BBQs Turn the day into something special by loading up on sausages and skewers and renting out one off the dedicated BBQ sites along the lakeside. There are even options to provide an entire field for groups of one hundred people or more, ideal for your organisation’s summer excursion. visitswindon.org.uk

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PROPERTY NEWS WICHELSTOWE

ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING NETWORK INSTALLED AT WICHELSTOWE DEVELOPMENT

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WICHELSTOWE IS ONE OF THE FIRST DEVELOPMENTS IN THE COUNTRY WITH EV CHARGING FOR SHARED PARKING

Award-winning electric vehicle (EV) charging technology has been installed at one of Swindon's largest housing developments in an industryleading move to increase the use of environmentally friendly transport.

shared parking bays. The unique split design, with chargers housed safely below ground connected to a small plug-in socket or wireless charging pad above ground, makes for small, sleek roadside units.

Installed in the ground alongside over a hundred parking bays at Canalside, Wichelstowe, the technology will allow residents and visitors to charge their cars from shared parking spaces. This is one of the first developments in the country to include electric vehicle charging facilities beyond private driveways.

Witnessing the first connections and cables being installed, David Renard, Leader of Swindon Borough Council and JV Board Member said: "I'm proud to see Wichelstowe leading the way again with an electric vehicle charging network that is available to visitors as well as residents, whether you live in a fourbedroom home with a driveway or a stylish waterside apartment. Having such an extensive network of charge points will help give people the confidence to make the switch to electric."

Environmental sustainability is a core commitment for the Joint Venture behind the Canalside development, which is made up of Barratt Developments and Swindon Borough Council. Over the next 20 years the partnership will deliver 3,000 new homes on the 250-hectare site, along with three primary schools and a secondary school, which is now open, and extensive open spaces including playing pitches, allotments and nature conservation areas.

The first phase of 208 highly sustainable homes is currently being finalised by five-star house builders Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes with the first residents moving in this summer. It is hoped that offering such extensive and open access to EV charging facilities will encourage homebuyers and residents to choose electric vehicles.

Provided by market-leading EV technology company, Connected Kerb, the infrastructure will support over 130 charging points across the development with 20 active chargers immediately installed into

Wichelstowe project director Daniel Pavely added: "In line with our strong commitment to sustainability and the environment, the electric vehicle charging network at Wichelstowe is bold and forward-thinking. Installed in the ground alongside parking bays, the technology will allow the residents and their visitors to be able to charge their electric vehicle from the shared parking facilities - unlike many other developments where this is only really possible for people with driveways.�

Connected Kerb's chief operating officer, Andy Carr added: "The EV revolution is here and the Wichelstowe Project is an example of the innovative approach needed for the inclusion of EV charging infrastructure in new residential developments." wichelstowe.co.uk

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COMMUNITY EXPERT OPINION

YOUTHOPTIMUM ADVENTURE PROFESSIONAL TRUST SERVICES

THE SUMMER OF ADVENTURE HAS HELPED FAMILIES GET OUTSIDE AND HAVE FUN TOGETHER OVER THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS.

BACK TO SCHOOL BINGO Who will be the first to shout BINGO?! Youth development charity, the Youth Adventure Trust knows that for many children and young people the return back to the classroom after so many months may be more than a little daunting. That’s where Back to School Bingo comes in – a FREE resource to help you prepare for the transition back to the classroom in September.

To take part, simply visit www.youthadventuretrust.org.uk/summerof-adventure where you can print off your very own Back to School Bingo card and play along.

Using a traditional Bingo grid, young people choose a line of 5 activities such as trying on the school uniform or waking up before 8am; making the usual journey to school or watching an art video tutorial. Send in photo evidence and once a line is completed … it’s BINGO! Anyone who sends in evidence that they have completed a line will receive a certificate and a water bottle as a prize. Have some fun, help the young people around you to prepare for September and alleviate some of the anxieties that they may have as the return to the new school term approaches.

The Youth Adventure Trust is a registered charity that has helped thousands of young vulnerable people through its outdoor adventure programme which builds resilience, confidence, self-belief and

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essential life skills - transforming children’s lives. Since lockdown began, the charity has been supporting the 11-16 year olds on its programme by providing online mentoring and virtual group sessions.

MARK DAVEY, CEO OF THE YOUTH ADVENTURE TRUST, SAYS: “We wanted to make sure young people up and down the country could enjoy some positive experiences over the summer holidays, but we are acutely aware of the anxiety that is building up around being back in the classroom. After numerous conversations with the young people on our programme about their concerns, we developed Back to School Bingo. It is a fantastic way for anybody of school age to prepare for that transition and make it a bit easier in September.”

Back to School Bingo is one part of the Youth Adventure Trust’s Summer of Adventure which has been kindly supported by The North Face and Ellis Brigham Mountain Sport. It is completely free to take part in the Back to School Bingo, but if you do enjoy getting involved, the charity asks that you make a donation to help ensure vulnerable young people can get the support they need during these challenging times. For more information, to get involved or for further back to school resources, visit the Youth Adventure Trust website. youthadventuretrust.org.uk/summer-of-adventure

BACK TO SCHOOL BINGO FROM THE YOUTH ADVENTURE TRUST wigwamSwindon.co.uk wigwamswindon.co.uk | 70

ARTS & CULTURE PHOTOGRAPHY

LOCAL LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY BY MITCH NELSON 71 | ISSUE No.2

"SWINDON'S BEAUTIFUL HINTERLAND IS ONE BIG PHOTO OPPORTUNITY"

By day Mitch Nelson is a crack designer at leading Swindon creative agency Jazzbones, by night – and at any other free time he can grab – he is an equally talented landscape photographer.

Mitch travels far and wide with his Canon 5D Mark IV to secure that perfect sunset or picture perfect dawn, but nothing inspires the Swindon-born snapper more than local landscapes like Silbury Hill, Savernake Forest, Badbury Clump and Hackpen Hill Prints are available at: redbubble.com/people/ mitchjnelson/shop @mitchjnelson_photography

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LIFESTYLE

DATALIBRIUM

SWINDON IT SOLUTIONS COMPANY FACILITATES REMOTE WORKING AS RESPONSE TO MOMENTOUS EVENTS OF 2020 The era-defining events of 2020 have demonstrated that many future business models will involve a degree of remote working. As we ease out of lockdown some companies will downsize on office space, while others might abandon physical offices all together. In both cases, the economic savings can be huge.

Taking on board those changes, Datalibrium, a Swindonbased IT company, is positioning itself at the heart of a remote working revolution that could see huge swathes of the UK workforce operating from home.

As businesses start to reopen following the lockdown enforced by the coronavirus pandemic, many businesses are giving their employees the option to continue working from home.

Office 365 application hosting and email, home and office unified telephone systems, safe storage solutions for customer data and online cash transactions, and migration to Cloud-based servers. The package is backed up by support from qualified IT professionals.

Datalibrium’s Managing director Emma Faramarzi said: “If the Covid-19 lockdown has taught us one thing it’s that many if not most future business models will involve a degree of remote working.

“For some companies that will mean downsizing on office space, for others it might even mean closing their office all together. In both cases, Datalibrium can help companies make hugely significant savings.”

Social media giant Twitter has told its 5,000 employees – including those based at its London office – that it would be their decision whether they return to the office or continue working from home.

One company that has used Datalibrium’s services to make the leap to remote working is London-based health care provider HCL Workforce Solutions. Group CEO and founder Ian Munro said: “Datalibrium understand the challenges of ensuring our clients receive premier service any time of the day.”

Meanwhile telecommunications giant BT currently has 8,500 call centre staff working remotely and the company says it will let staff decide whether or not they want to come back, while the CEO of banking group Barclays has said that putting 7,000 people in the office might be a thing of the past.

“As health care providers with operations in the UK, India, Italy and the Philippines, HCL must have a robust framework for all matters around IT and Datalibrium provide a critical part of that infrastructure.”

Now, computer support and services firm Datalibrium has launched an eight week FREE transition package to support businesses that already have staff working remotely, or want to adopt a home-based approach to work as their business begins to unlock.

The package includes all the physical and virtual tools a business and its staff need to operate remotely, including

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Datalibrium has been providing IT support to national companies at all levels of business for over a decade. It is headquartered at Basepoint Business Centre in Swindon. datalibrium.co.uk

MONEY

SUPERMARKETS, SCHOOLS AND STREET NAMES CAN ALL AFFECT THE VALUE OF A PROPERTY.

IT’S NOT JUST THE BRICKS & MORTAR THAT DETERMINE A HOUSE’S VALUE

The housing market can be hard enough to keep track of at the best of times, let alone in the midst of a pandemic. But there are some perennial factors that can affect the price of your home.

Sadly, most of them are completely out of your control, but it helps to keep them in mind when it comes to buying a property.

SUPERMARKETS The nearest supermarket can have a marked impact on your house price: it’s called ‘The Waitrose Effect’. According to Lloyds Bank, living near a Waitrose can add £36,480 to your property price. Living near to a Marks & Spencer (£29,992), as expected, will add more value to your home than a Sainsbury's (£26,081).

Iceland is holding its own quite nicely, providing a £22,767 property value boost. The lowest house price premiums are in areas with an Asda (£4,117), Lidl (£6,416) or Morrisons (£10,504), according to Lloyds.

STREET NAMES The name of the street has an astonishingly large impact on the price of your home. Research from Zoopla has found that ‘Warren’ is the most expensive, aptly followed by ‘Chase’. The former is over double the national average at £607,267 while the average house with a Chase address is £482,867.

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‘Street’, ‘Court’ or ‘Terrace’ tend to be much more affordable at average prices of £184,722, £190,851 and £194,403 respectively.

Royal names come with a royal price tag too. Properties on roads with King (£299,572) in the name are 20% more expensive than those with Queen (£249,295) while Prince is 35% more valuable than Princess (£279,593 versus £180,249)!

PROXIMITY TO WIND FARMS Studies have been conflicting on this one, but wind farms can knock 12% off the price of a house, according to the London School of Economics.

A LOCAL PUB

Properties on roads with rude names sell for less as buyers tend to be too embarrassed to invest in them. Try Bell End in the West Midlands, Cock Lane in London or Slag Lane in Leicester.

This one could go either way. There's a chance you'll be dreading last call or right there at the bar swilling your last pint with your new local pals. Research from online agent Tepilo says that almost a quarter of homebuyers like to be near a local, calling it a must when buying their next home. The figure (unsurprisingly) rises to 35% for 18-24 year-olds.

A DARK PAST

MARKET TOWNS

A history of death, murders or suicides in a property could knock down its price simply because potential buyers don’t like the idea of living in a house where these things took place. So if a property seems a little too cheap, be sure to check out its history!

Lloyds says that houses in market towns are worth £25,000 more than in other towns in the area. Farmer's markets add on a premium too. Zoopla says that properties near popular farmer's markets are on average £87,180 more than those in the wider county area.

THE LOCAL SCHOOL’S OFSTED REPORT

HILLS AND TREES

Ofsted reports reign supreme for some homebuyers, and it's easy to see why. A bad report takes £20,000 off the cost of the average property, according to RICS. Meanwhile, a top state secondary school adds an average of £21,000 to house prices in the local area, said a study from Lloyds Bank.

Being on a hill adds some value to your home, according to research from Zoopla while losing your street trees can knock 5% off your house price. lovemoney.com

Specialists in conveyancing, property law, wills and probate The legal team at Optimum are specialists and experts, so we really know the ins and outs of our area of law: property law, wills and probate. And because we specialise in these areas, we can focus on the real issues that affect our clients daily: property sales and purchase, buying land, drawing up a will, dealing with probate, powers of attorney and so on. We offer the same approach to all our clients: we listen carefully, we use our expertise to come up with the best course of action for you, and we deal with your issue in a professional, responsive manner keeping you informed every step of the way.

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