Press Releases

Major Investment Planned in Pembrokeshire Coastal Town

Major Investment Planned in Pembrokeshire Coastal Town Plans for a new £7.5m residential and commercial development in the centre of Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire have been submitted to Pembrokeshire Country Council. The new development is being brought forward by DAW (Saundersfoot) LLP, a joint venture between developers Actoris, St Brides Ltd and Waterstone Homes.

The development, which signifies a major investment in the area, is more than 40,000 sq ft and will comprise of eight town houses, 24 apartments, five retail units and a restaurant with adjoining sun terrace. Much of the town centre site is currently derelict but it also incorporates the former Cambrian Hotel, a landmark, grade 2 listed building overlooking the harbour.

The plans have been presented to members of the local community council and have now been formally submitted for consideration. If approved, DAW (Saundersfoot) LLP plan to start work in late Spring 2012, with the construction lasting approximately 18 months.

Major Investment Planned in Pembrokeshire Coastal Town

During construction, around 80 jobs will be available and the retail and restaurant spaces will provide long term job opportunities for local residents once the development has been completed.

Matt Bryant, Director at Actoris, comments: “We have worked very closely with Pembrokeshire Coast National Park to design a variety of buildings that enhance the local built environment and add to the outstanding character of this beautiful seaside resort. We have presented our plans to the members of the local community council and the support for our proposals has been overwhelming.

“The joint venture partners are keen to complete the development as soon as possible despite the current tough economic conditions. We bought the site last year and we want to start works as soon as we can. We have the continued support of our bankers, Handelsbanken, and we know that there is still very strong demand for high quality residential and retail space.”

Simon Jehu, Director of Waterstone Homes adds: “We are looking forward to bringing our brand of high specification and sought-after homes to the local community in Saundersfoot. As well as benefitting from living on the stunning Pembrokeshire coastline, future residents can take full advantage of all the conveniences that being part of a wider development will bring.

“We have had a warm welcoming from the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park planning team and their proactive planning approach has been refreshing and beneficial to all parties.”

Alistair Dalton of St Brides Ltd, he said “We are very excited to be working with Actoris and Waterstone Homes, two highly respected developers, to bring forward this much needed privately funded regeneration project”

Pontcanna Property Market Booming According to Developers

Pontcanna Property Market Booming According to Developers A big thankyou to Cardiff Life magazine for their recent news piece on developments at The Terrace and in the Pontcanna residential market. Check out what they said about us and our friends at Waterstone Homes below..

Pontcanna remains one of Cardiff's most sought after property hotspots, a fact not lost on two of South Wales' finest niche residential developers, Loosemore and Waterstone Homes. Both are currently developing prime sites in the area.

Waterstone Homes is presently completing work on Phase 2 of the prestigious Ffynnon Ganna development. Andrea Gardner, sales manager at Waterstone Homes comments: "The response to Ffynnon Ganna is overwhelming and we've sold a total of 17 of the 18 properties available. It's been lovely to see the formation of a new community that includes people of all ages."

Meanwhile just around the corner, high-end developer, Loosemore are well underway with work at their prestigious new development, situated on the site of the old St Winefride's hospital. Phase 1 of Loosemore's new development, otherwise known as The Terrace is already 70 per cent sold, prior to its March 2012 completion schedule.

Prepare your home for Winter Now

Prepare your home for Winter Now Leading house builder Waterstone Homes, is urging home owners everywhere to prepare their properties for the onslaught of winter weather. Greg Street, construction manager at Waterstone Homes shares these top tops on how simple maintenance checks in both new and older properties can prevent any damage this winter.

New build properties benefit from having fewer maintenance requirements but it important to take care of your new property to maximise its potential and ensure that it remains in pristine condition for years to come.

You may have noticed that summer came and went with the blink of an eye and winter is now firmly upon us with falling temperatures and even more falling rain. Before the cold weather sets in, you should start making preparations for the months ahead and I don’t mean wrapping presents. In order to protect your home from the cold weather you should carry out some simple checks now to avoid holiday nightmares on the home front.

Heating and Hot Water Systems
This is perhaps the easiest yet most effective precautionary measure to take. We’ve all heard horror stories of burst pipes and flooding over the winter break yet these situations can easily be avoided.

Action to take:

Ensure cylinders & boilers are serviced by a CORGI registered engineer. This will flag up any unforeseen problems and allow you to make repairs before your boiler is put to the test
If we experience freezing temperatures for a prolonged period of time, turn up you hot water and central heating thermostats to protect internal pipes
Taking a trip away from home at Christmas? Set a timer on your boiler to avoid damage to your pipes
Drain any excess water from outdoor taps and isolate the supply to avoid any damage
Remove any hoses and adaptors from outdoor taps and store them safely
Ensure that any fireplaces are regularly serviced and that flues are unobstructed. If you have wood burning fires make sure your chimneys are cleaned

Windows and Doors
Temperatures in the UK can reach well below freezing in the winter and more than 30 degrees in the summer. This causes seals to expand and contract which can lead to damage.

Action to take:

Take a look around your house and check every window and door to see whether seals and vents are intact
Replace any damaged seals and weatherproof your windows and doors to avoid drafts and water damage this winter

Gutters, Downpipes and Exterior Conditions
With Autumn now behind us, gutters and downpipes may be blocked with fallen leaves. This can cause extensive damage to both the exterior of your property and interior. If water cannot drain away it gathers in low lying areas and allows damp to creep into your property.

Action to take:

Clear the gutters and clean downpipes
Check for damage to gutters and replace if necessary
Investigate the house perimeter to fill any settled and depressed areas with gravel as well as levelling off paving slabs

New Homes
Newly built properties will not have quite so many maintenance issues to think about as the seasons change. At Waterstone Homes we provide customers with a useful guide to help maintain their homes and this is the perfect time of year to review this and make sure your property is fully protected. We also offer the National House Building Council’s (NHBC) warranty as standard.

Action to take:

Check that your new build property is covered by the NHBC warranty
Ensure that your house insurance is in date and covers you for weather damage

Following these hints and tips will ensure that you have a worry-free winter, safe in the knowledge that your property is fully protected from the elements.

Waterstone Homes Launch Exclusive New Development

Waterstone Homes Launch Exclusive New Development Leading high-end house builder, Waterstone Homes, has launched its latest exclusive development of just seven stunning, traditional family homes at St Andrew’s Grange in Dinas Powys in the Vale of Glamorgan.

The launch event took place at Dinas Powys Golf Club where guests were introduced to the luxury living and stylish new properties that St Andrew’s Grange has to offer.

Andrea Gardner, sales manger at Waterstone Homes comments: “It was a real pleasure to welcome so many potential buyers to our St Andrew’s Grange launch. We’re proud to showcase this special development, particularly as it’s our first in the Vale of Glamorgan. We have already seen a high level of interest with one property already having been reserved off plan. The feedback on the night was overwhelming and our reputation for high quality homes and bespoke customer service clearly precedes us. Buyers can now get a real feel of what the development will look like ahead of our show home opening in the new year.”

Waterstone Homes Launch Exclusive New Development St Andrew’s Grange, situated on St Andrew’s Road is a spacious development, tastefully blending into the village with feature stone walls and stunning external finishes. Each property benefits from having a double garage, ample parking and design features such as real wood burning fires, designed kitchens, impressive family bathrooms and multiple en-suites. The Granary home has an unique second floor hobby room that offers great flexibility and could be used as an office, playroom or teenagers room to suit the buyers lifestyle.

Andrea continues: “Waterstone Homes is known for its attention to details and finishing touches that won’t be found with any other house builder. We are proud to offer homebuyers the opportunity to meet with our designer and plan their own style in areas such as flooring, kitchens and bathrooms. We offer our expert advice at each stage from when a customer first sees the plan to long after we hand over the keys. Our bespoke service allows homebuyers to really get the most out of their new properties and ensure that it thoroughly compliments their lifestyle.”

“We pride ourselves on having desirable design features that really appeal to our customers. St Andrew’s Grange has been developed based on our customer feedback and we feel that we’ve brought the best possible offering to this much sought-after location.” As well as being designed with style and comfort in mind, the new homes will meet the criteria for the Code of Sustainable Homes.

The St Andrew’s Grange show home will open in the new year. The marketing office is open on Friday and Saturday from 10am - 4pm. For more information about the development or for an appointment call Andrea Gardner on 01565 644440 or 07966 999071.

Waterstone Homes and Jehu Project Services team up to raise money for The Hepatitis C Trust

Staff from Waterstone Homes and Jehu Project Services held a charity bike ride along the Taff Trail in aid of The Hepatitis C Trust this weekend.

Both companies are members of the Jehu Group, which has chosen the Hepatitis C Trust as one of its nominated charities this year as David Thomas, Purchasing Manager, carries the virus.

David, a haemophiliac, contracted hepatitis C when he received contaminated blood products via NHS treatment at the age of nine. Around 4,000 people got the virus this way in the late 70s and early 80s and David hopes to use this opportunity to raise awareness of their campaign for compensation.

The bike ride took place on October 7th and covered the 55 miles between the Taff Trail Canal Basin and the Senedd building in Cardiff Bay. Around 22 members of staff took part. The majority completed the full ride, with a smaller group joining them at Merthyr Leisure Centre for the second leg. Dave encouraged the team at each step of the way by riding along in the support vehicle.

This is the first event that Jehu Group have held in aid of The Hepatitis C Trust and each rider is hoping to collect £100 in sponsorship.

David said: “Jehu Group has been very supportive of me and of the charity bike ride. They even suggested we hold it on a work day, and have helped us with our fundraising too. The Hepatitis C Trust is a fantastic resource and support network so it’s nice to be able to give something back.”

Andrea Gardner, sales manager for Waterstone Homes, had been in training for the bike ride with other colleagues. Andrea said: “It’s lovely to do something which both supports a valued member of staff and contributes to a good cause. Organising the bike ride has really brought us together as a team, with Claire Thomas, Human Resources Manager, and Anne-Marie Jehu, Payroll Clerk, doing a fantastic job of leading the way. I hope we’ll be able to meet our target of £100 each.”

Charles Gore, Chief Executive of The Hepatitis C Trust, commented: “We're thrilled to have this support, and are really grateful to Waterstone Homes and Jehu Project Services. The money they raise will be invaluable to our work helping people with hepatitis C - answering a helpline call costs just a few pounds but can transform someone's ability to cope with months of arduous treatment. We wish the team the best of luck with their fundraising.”

Last Chance to buy at Ffynnon Ganna

Last Chance to buy at Ffynnon Ganna Just one property remains on the market at Waterstone Homes’ luxury Ffynnon Ganna development in Pontcanna. Located in a very popular area of Cardiff, these beautiful family homes have sold even quicker than the developers expected.

Gemma and Ross Hooper Nash, who have recently settled into their new home, reserved a plot before the first brick had even been laid.

The first people to buy at the development in Pontcanna, Gemma and Ross had only seen plans and an artist’s impression of their new home when they decided that Ffynnon Ganna was the place for them and their baby daughter, Megan.

Ross, who is an estate agent, first heard of Waterstone Homes when the housebuilder approached him professionally. The couple already owned a property in Pontcanna but wanted to find a bigger house to accommodate their growing family.

Gemma, 28, said: “We were instantly attracted to the Ffynnon Ganna development. The houses are so unusual in that on the outside they look traditional and fit in with the older properties in the area, but on the inside they’re brand new and very modern. We love Pontcanna because it’s quite close to the town centre but with all the parks and fields you almost feel as if you’re out in the countryside. The fact that the house had parking space was particularly appealing because it’s notoriously difficult to park in this area. We also love that the house is on three floors, and the orangery feature at the back.

“We’ve lived in a new build before, but it was different with Waterstone Homes because we were able to choose all the fixtures and fittings for ourselves. Some people might think it a bit crazy to buy before work had even started, but it seemed an obvious choice for us. It has been well worth it as it has been finished to our own personal specification.

“The staff at Waterstone Homes have been brilliant throughout the whole process. We knew that they had an excellent reputation, that’s what gave us the confidence to buy with them in the first place, but they’ve really lived up to it. Even after moving in nothing is too much for them! I’d recommend them to anyone for their fantastic service.”

Andrea Gardner, sales manager at Waterstone Homes, said: “It’s lovely to see Gemma, Ross and Megan finally settled into their new home. They’ve watched their house being built brick by brick and have been able to play a big part in its design, choosing tiling for the bathroom and kitchen and selecting all the fittings.

“The Pontcanna development has proved to be very popular, with only one plot left for sale. I would advise anyone interested to book a viewing now, as I am sure it will not remain on the market much longer.”

Show home viewing is now by appointment only. To book a viewing contact the Waterstone Homes Sales Team on 01656 644 440

Waterstone Homes Makes Key Promotion

Waterstone Homes Makes Key Promotion Specialist developer of exclusive new properties, Waterstone Homes, has promoted Andrea Gardner to Sales Manager. This new role will see her managing the sales team across South Wales as well as overseeing the development of new locations from planning to completion.

Andrea has been with Waterstone Homes for the last three years, integrating into the business and helping to develop the brand as a sales executive. Most recently, she has been based at Waterstone Homes’ Ffynnon Ganna development in Pontcanna, where 17 of the 18 properties have now been sold. She will move in September to the company’s latest development, St Andrew’s Grange, which consists of just seven impressive family homes. She has a wealth of experience in the sector having been involved in property sales for the last 18 years.

On her promotion, Andrea said: “I’m thrilled to have been promoted at such an exciting time for the company and very proud to have been asked to play a part in ensuring that our standards remain at the highest level. I know I’ll be kept very busy in the coming months what with the launch of our new St Andrew’s Grange scheme in the Vale of Glamorgan and several more developments in the pipeline, launching in the near future. The team is a pleasure to work with and we strive to offer the best customer service for each of our potential buyers, something that myself and my two sales executives are keen to grow and develop.

“I’m really enjoying my new position as the work is so varied. I see projects all the way through to completion, from standing on a bare field to handing over the keys to new owners. Gareth Jones Gareth, managing director of Waterstone Homes, has been a fantastic mentor to me and I have already learnt so much from working alongside him. I think we make a great team and I’m looking forward to unveiling our new developments to the public in the future.”

Gareth Jones, Managing Director of Waterstone Homes, said: “As a family-run company it’s important to us that all members of our sales team are friendly and welcoming and make potential buyers feel at home as soon as they arrive on site. This is something that Andrea has proved herself more than capable of, and so we felt that it was time to put her skills and experience to the test by asking her to take on a more demanding role working across all of our sites. She has fantastic insight when it comes to knowing what our customers want and she’s not afraid to put her views forward when it comes to choosing future locations and product offerings.

“Andrea has been a real asset to the sales team over the part few years and I feel sure that she will rise to the challenge of this new position. I wish her the best of luck in her new role and hope that her career with us continues for many years into the future.”

Neath Estate Agent Swaps Old for New at Llwyn Helyg

Neath Estate Agent Swaps Old for New at Llwyn Helyg A Neath estate agent has recently purchased a new Waterstone Home at the Llywn Helyg development after being converted to the benefits of new over old.

Paula Cole, Brand Manager at Astleys in Neath, has just moved into her new four-bedroom home, something which she never would have predicted. She explains: “In the past, I’ve always bought older style properties that needed a fair amount of renovation. It gave me and husband the opportunity to put our stamp on our home and I had the perception that older houses were bigger, with more storage spaces and more cost-efficient than new homes.

“My husband had seen that there was an open day at Llywn Helyg and he went along to see what it was all about. He then persuaded me to take a look myself, even though I knew I wouldn’t be interested. It turned out that I only needed one viewing on the house before I was sold!

“I was so impressed with the space and the beautiful finishes within the home. It gives us plenty of room as a family to have our own space, particularly as our sons who are 14 and 20 play lots of sports and have friends to visit frequently.”

The Cole’s have purchased the four-bedroom ‘Llwyfen’ style townhouse, an unusual type of property for this part of Neath. The ground floor boasts a large living room as well as a kitchen/dining room and cloakroom. The first floor houses three spacious bedrooms and a family bathroom while the third floor encompasses the master suite which includes an en-suite bathroom, dressing room and a vaulted ceiling, a real treat for any couple needing privacy and their own space.

Andrea Gardner, sales manager of Waterstone Homes, comments: “Paula would never have pictured herself in a new build home but it goes to show that it’s worth having a look, you might just be surprised. I believe that Waterstone Homes offer something extra to homebuyers as our homes are well-designed with family living in mind. A real community has been built at Llywn Helyg and I would urge anyone interested in owning their own new property to get in touch or come and visit us.”

Waterstone Homes set to Wow Buyers

Waterstone Homes set to Wow Buyers Home buyers in Dinas Powys are set to be wowed by Waterstone Homes’ latest luxury development at one of Wales’ most exclusive addresses.

The high-end developer has unveiled an exclusive collection of seven specially-designed homes, forming a new close just off St Andrews Road which is amongst the top locations in the annual street rankings survey for Wales in 2011*.

The cluster of desirable four and five bedroom detached homes have each been carefully designed to the latest requirements including for example excellent insulation standards efficient central heating boilers and water saving devices.

Each having its own identity The new home designs have evolved around buyers’ feedback and may include master bedrooms with sought-after dressing rooms, stunning vaulted bedroom ceilings or even a spacious top floor with en-suite, designed to inspire the individual buyer to transform it into their own bespoke space to suit their lifestyle, whether it be a games rooms, a children’s playroom or a generous guest room.

The exterior of the homes is set to be equally as impressive as the interior with double garages beautifully appointed front and back gardens and stone front boundary walls.

Andrea Gardner Sales Manager of Waterstone Homes, said: “We pride ourselves on creating luxury, prestigious homes that people aspire to live in set in some of the most desirable locations in Wales. We also try to offer our buyers substantial flexible spaces so that they have the freedom to create a layout to suit their particular style of living.”

Prices at St Andrews Grange start at £750,000 with plot sizes ranging from over 2000 sq ft for the four bedroom ‘Gables’ style homes, to over 3500 sq ft for the five bedroom, three-storey ‘Granary’ style home. Waterstone Homes has developed new homes in some of the most sought-after locations in Wales, including most recently in French’s Field in Pentyrch and Ffynnon Ganna in Pontcanna.

St Andrews Grange is being constructed by Jehu Project Services, part of the family-run Jehu Group of companies of which Waterstone Homes is part of.

Luxury Developer puts its stamp on Neath Home

Luxury Developer puts its stamp on Neath Home Waterstone Homes, the specialist developer well-known for creating bespoke luxury homes, has turned its hand to home makeovers by putting its stamp on a Victorian Neath home.

The developer has extended its expertise to a three-bed, semi-detached house in Pen Y Alley Avenue in Skewen that came under its wing as a part-exchange, after the owner bought a new house at Waterstone Homes’ latest development, Llwyn Helyg in Waunceirch.

The large Victorian house now boasts a contemporary neutral colour theme and new carpet or flooring throughout, thanks to Waterstone Homes. The new owner of the property will also receive a £1,000 voucher towards a new kitchen of their choice, compliments of the developer. It’s currently on the market for £123,995 with Peter Alan estate agents.

Gareth Davies, Managing Director of Waterstone Homes, said: “It’s important to us that when a home comes under the wing of Waterstone, we ensure we make it as attractive as possible for buyers. The house on Pen Y Alley Avenue now has a fresh look and the voucher offer means the new owner can put their own stamp on their home by putting it towards a brand new kitchen.

“It would be the perfect home for a first-time buyer or a family. It’s spacious, it’s only 15 minutes’ drive from both Swansea and Neath and it is located on a quiet, family-orientated street, which is still close to all the local amenities.”

Waterstone Homes is currently developing the luxury Llwyn Helyg development in Waunceirch in Neath. Set in the heart of the town, it is a contemporary development of one, two, three and four bedroom homes. The show home is now open.

The house on Pen Y Alley Avenue is on sale with Peter Alan in Neath for £123,995. For further information, please call David at Peter Alan on 01639 635115 or visit www.peteralan.co.uk to view photos of the house.

Exclusive New Waterstone Homes Development Launched

Exclusive New Waterstone Homes Development Launched Waterstone Homes, specialist developer of quality new housing, has officially launched its exclusive new development in Pontcanna with the opening of a new show home. The popular Ffynnon Ganna development has already received a great deal of interest with only six of the eighteen properties remaining unsold.

The four bedroom Sant Elian town house was opened by Penny and Nick Wooller, the son and daughter of the late Welsh cricket and rugby star, Wilfred Wooller. In tribute to their father, the street that circulates the Ffynnon Ganna development has been named ‘Heol Wilf Wooler’.

Waterstone Homes is the housebuilding arm of the family-run Jehu Group. The opening event gave co-director of Jehu Group, Simon Jehu, the opportunity to announce the last phase of the Ffynnon Ganna development which will include a further eight properties.

Waterstone Homes managing director, Gareth Jones, said: “We’re really pleased with the success of the launch evening. The turnout was excellent from both those who have already bought properties on site and also from prospect buyers. The houses at Ffynnon Ganna offer a mixture of modern and traditional architecture which has proved popular with home buyers on our other developments. The properties offer something a little different to what home buyers might expect from other house builders.

“With the development situated so close to the city centre in the much sought after Pontcanna area, it’s no wonder that we have sold so many houses in such a short period. We’ve already sold nine of the ten houses in phase one and three out of the eight houses in the final phase. We anticipate that the final six houses will go quickly and are recommending that anyone interested should book a viewing as soon as possible.”

Attendees at the opening were treated to Welsh themed canapés and Prosecco, provided by Pontcanna’s Cameo Club. Caroline Harwood, an accomplished harpist, played while guests were given guided tours around the Sant Elian property. The show home boasts a large ground floor kitchen and dining area which overlooks a landscaped garden. In addition there is a study, spacious living room and three double bedrooms. The master bedroom benefits from an en-suite bathroom and there are another two bathrooms situated on the second and third floors of the impressive townhouse.

The show home will be open from Saturday to Sunday 10am – 5pm or by appointment during the week. For further information please contact Andrea Gardner on 07966 999071.