The best new builds don’t just provide you with a wonderful home to make your own, they boost your lifestyle too.

More than ever, new neighbourhoods are being designed with wellness, good health, community and the environment in mind.

Here’s our top five list of lifestyle must-haves to keep in mind when you’re viewing your dream new home.

1.Outdoor space

Whether it’s a balcony or a garden, outdoor space offers you place to breathe fresh air, get closer to nature and relax – which are all beneficial for your mental and physical health. Green public spaces like playing fields, parks, playgrounds and allotments are ideal for keeping fit, walking the dog, playing and meeting friends.

2.Transport options

Well-connected neighbourhoods have good access to the surrounding area as well as major transport routes – so you can quickly get where you need to go.  And as more and more people take up cycling and walking – especially during the Covid19 pandemic – newly-built neighbourhoods benefit from safe and well-lit cycle lanes and pathways.

3.Great facilities

Having facilities like shops, cafes, healthcare, play areas and gyms within walking or cycling distance make life easier and cheaper, while offering a place to socialise. And by leaving your car at home, you’re helping the environment too.

4. Childcare and schools

If you have children or are planning on having them in the future, the location of nurseries and schools is an important consideration.  Walking to school can boost a child’s physical and mental health, confidence and social skills.

5. Street layout

Good street layout makes streets more pleasant to walk through, rather than being dominated by roads. Do the streets around your dream home suit your lifestyle? For example, is there a 20mph speed limit, that makes the streets safer for your children to play on?

As one of the UK’s leading land promotion companies, Richborough Estates brings forward land in sustainable locations and design great places to live. www.richboroughestates.co.uk