new homes Archives - Urban Union Ltd

Tag: new homes

North Four, creating new Edinburgh Homes. Why should you make the move?

Finding the perfect place to call home is never easy, especially with so many homes to choose from, it’s important to weigh up all your options.

In this latest blog we’re highlighting Edinburgh and why we think you should consider a move there. More specifically, our North Four development – just a 20 minute commute from Edinburgh City Centre and a distance of less than three miles.

 

 

Purchasing one of our new build homes means easy access to an abundance of history and culture

History around every corner, that’s one of the first reasons to consider moving East. Edinburgh’s cobblestone streets are renowned for it. From the iconic Edinburgh Castle, to the rugged peaks of Arthur’s Seat and the closes of the Old Town, not only is the city educational but picturesque.

One of our new homes could inspire a passion for the Arts

It’s not only history that thrives in Edinburgh, art and culture are big in the city too! From world-class galleries and theatres to lively music venues and festivals, there’s always something exciting happening! And, of course, don’t forget The Fringe in August!

A new home could be your path to Academic Excellence

If you’re already forward planning for your future family or perhaps considering studying and changing your own career path, Edinburgh is home to some of the world’s most prestigious Universities. These include the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University, which both have a reputation for academic excellence and research innovation.

Purchasing one of our homes in Edinburgh means access to a dynamic culinary scene

The innovation doesn’t stop with research, Edinburgh also has one of the most diverse culinary scenes around. From Michelin-starred restaurants to cosy cafes and street food markets, there’s no shortage of dining experiences to satisfy everyone.

Buy one of our four bedroom houses and join a welcoming new community

You could be enjoying all of this and everything Edinburgh has to offer with a new home at North Four! Specialists in new build, Urban Union are renowned for creating welcoming and thriving communities as well as delivering meticulously finished, carefully considered new homes.

Why Scotland’s capital city? Edinburgh exudes a warm sense of community that makes newcomers feel right at home, so unlock the door to a new home at North Four.

A new home in Edinburgh positions you well for Economic Opportunities

Finally, with a diverse economy spanning sectors such as finance, technology, tourism, and education, Edinburgh offers opportunities for you and your family in terms of career growth and professional development. From established corporations to innovative startups, the city’s thriving business scene allows you to showcase your own talents and thrive.

Feel inspired to make your move to Edinburgh and join us at North Four?

Whether you’re drawn to the rich history, the culture, the landscapes, or the promising career prospects, Edinburgh promises endless opportunities for adventure and growth for your family and North Four offers the perfect new home to facilitate this.

Currently available to reserve are our first collection of Espie four-bedroom townhouses – but act fast, as only a limited number remain available.

In total, North Four will comprise of 94 brand new homes, ranging from two to four bedroom homes, with four bedroom Espie prices starting from £350,995.

And as we launch our brand new Sales and Marketing suite this weekend, join us to find out about our unmissable Incentive Packages available on a range of Espie homes.  You can choose from Cashback or a we’ll make a contribution to the cost of selling your existing home, or we’ll help with your deposit or contribute to your LBTT costs.

Get in touch with our Sales Team today to find our more by calling 07386 651773 or e-mail northfour@urbanunionltd.co.uk

Come tour one of the most popular housing developments in Glasgow

You may or may not know by now, but on Friday 29th of September, between 4pm and 6pm, we are throwing the doors open to one of our recently finished Cairns style townhouses. No appointment required, simply show up and browse and enjoy a few light refreshments courtesy of us.

 

new build homes open day in Glasgow City Centre

Where to find our new home open day

The open day will be held at 10 Dunmore Lane, Glasgow, G5 9AQ within our Laurieston Living development – just a stone’s throw from the heart of Glasgow City Centre.

One of our most popular new build developments to date, the project is now in Phase 3 and will be providing a further 191 new homes for private sale in Glasgow.

 

new homes available in Glasgow city centre with great transport links

More information regarding the new builds on offer

The Cairns three bedroom townhouses are the first release within this next stage and after substantial demand there are now only two plots available to reserve – Plot 52 and Plot 53. Both mid terrace options, they are available at a fixed rate of £320,995 each.

A completely new house style which has been added to the Urban Union range, these new build homes come with the unique feature of a private nine foot roof terrace – perfect for taking in the local cityscape.

Each property adopts a modern layout and is ideal for the demands of contemporary family living, with open plan kitchen/ dining for socialising, as well as bedrooms separated over two floors. Perfect for those with older children who are seeking some additional space and independence.

And it is all complemented by quality finishes, integrated modern appliances and fitted flooring throughout.

Click here for a full house tour of our new build homes.

 

find new homes in glasgow close to some of Scotland's most iconic music venues

What is the local area around the new build development like?

As we mentioned before, Laurieston Living is right in the middle of Glasgow City Centre, only a bridge crossing away from Glasgow Central Station – connecting you directly with the rest of Scotland.

However in this chic city living set up, it’s not the only thing you’ll be able to find on your doorstep and beyond. Laurieston is surrounded by a number of museum and gallery options, as well as local cafes and bars, and also not forgetting three iconic Scottish Music Venues – The 02 academy, The Barrowlands and The SEC Hydro. Whilst also offering a number of shopping options, from designer to vintage and high street brands.

It is fairly safe to say that you won’t be short of activities for yourself or your family if you do make the move. Whether it’s a day out to Kelvingrove Art Gallery, Glasgow Science Centre or Tennent’s Wellpark Brewery.

But what really makes Laurieston Living? The community within it. Since its origin the development has created a suburb feel despite its location and brings a real sense of peace and tranquility to the city – making it a great place to live.

 

 

 

find your dream home with one of Urban Union's new build glasgow developments

Speak to our team about our current new homes availability

Interested in finding your new home with us at Urban Union?

As well as the two three bedroom homes within our Laurieston Living site, we have a further two plots available at our Pollokshaws Living development within Glasgow’s Southside – both two bedroom apartments, perfect for first time buyers.

Not only this but we have further development announcement to come for both Glasgow and Edinburgh for 2024.

So wherever you are looking to call home, get in touch with our Sales Team to start making your dream a reality. Get in touch via sales@urbanunionltd.co.uk or call 0141 530 4000

Urban Union: Finalists in Three Scottish Home Awards Categories

Urban Union is delighted to announce that two of their Glasgow developments are finalists in three categories of the 2023 Scottish Home Awards. Laurieston Living for the Community Contribution Award and for Large Affordable Housing Development of the Year; Pollokshaws Living for Starter Home of the Year.

Currently holder of the coveted Scottish Property Awards 2023 Regeneration Project of the Year award, being shortlisted for the Community Contribution category once again highlights the community based ethos of Urban Union.   Embedded in our business is the aim to form part of the local community and delivering not only new homes but making a difference with our Community Benefits projects.

Kirsty Parry, Sales and Marketing Director commented, ‘It is with great pride that our flagship Laurieston Living development is shortlisted for the Community Contribution Award. Our unique provision of a free to use community space at Laurieston, gives everyone in the local community a place to share, host local events and meetings and we are delighted to support it along with all the community based projects we run across our developments”

The second nomination for Laurieston Living comes in the Large Affordable Housing Development of The Year Category.  This award winning development and highly successful regeneration project of the Gorbals area sees the latest release deliver 191 new homes and apartments due to complete in Summer 2026 and forms part of the wider Laurieston Transformational Regeneration Area, a £140 million revitalisation as part of the Transforming Communities Glasgow – a programme that aims to regenerate eight key neighbourhoods across the city. As with all Urban Union homes, phase three at Laurieston will provide all the comforts and efficiencies you would expect of a new build home.

In the third category, our Pollokshaws Living development is shortlisted for Starter Home of the Year.  Pollokshaws in the Southside of Glasgow is benefitting from a £25m revitalisation spend which will see two phases developed over five years.  Set to complete in 2023, Pollokshaws Living is also part of the wider Transforming Communities: Glasgow programme, which aims to provide sustainable mixed-tenure communities by providing new housing, community facilities, green space and, where appropriate, commercial units. The project forms one of eight districts in the city to be designated a transformational regeneration area by Glasgow City Council.

Pollokshaws Living is aimed at first-time buyers and growing families. Previously home to high- and low-rise blocks, the development on the 5.47-acre site on Shawbridge Street provides a mix of 137 high-quality two, three, four and five-bedroom terraced homes and one and two-bedroom apartments. Residents moved into the first homes in 2021.

Kirsty Parry, added: “At Urban Union, it’s a collective contribution.  Whether it’s the apprentices learning a trade on site, or our head office and customer support teams, everyone contributes to our success and it’s down to the efforts of each one of them that we see us shortlisted for these three prestigious The Scottish Home Awards. A huge congratulations to the whole team, we wouldn’t be here without you all!”

Introducing Hamiltonhill Living – 600 new homes in Glasgow

 

A collaborative partnership between Queens Cross Housing Association, Hamiltonhill Living is the latest housing development announced by our team at Urban Union.

Assisting in the regeneration of the Hamiltonhill area of Glasgow, we will be delivering a total of 600 new homes – 50% of which will be available for rent through the housing association and the other 50% will be available for private sale.

Comprising of a variety of different house types, we will be aiming to meet the needs of a wide range of diverse lifestyles and budgets, from first-time buyers to growing families.

Our specification includes apartments and terraced housing, all in close proximity of Glasgow City Centre.

The regeneration of the area will be delivered over a 10 year period, split over four phases, having initially launched in August 2022.

 

Urban Union providing more properties within the Hamiltonhill area of Glasgow

The housing development site explained

Pictured above is how the location of our development looks currently. Situated along the canal corridor within North Glasgow, Hamiltonhill neighbours Sighthill, Dundashill, Cowlairs, Ruchill Hospital and Maryhill Locks.

An under developed area of the city, we hope to regenerate the site and bring a real community feel along with our housing.

This will be done through collaborative projects, as well as the build of three new local parks in Hamiltonhill (a separate contract set to complete in Summer 2023) – creating attractive open and safe green spaces for children to enjoy and parents to socialise.

 

North Glasgow property Development providing affordable housing

A word from our MD on Hamiltonhill Living

Neil McKay, managing director of Urban Union, said: “It’s great to see work get underway at our new development at Hamiltonhill as we continue to meet the growing demand for a diverse mix of high-quality, affordable houses in the area.

“We expect Hamiltonhill to be a popular development, with lots of exciting future improvements planned for the community. I’d urge people to register their interest now to avoid disappointment.”

Rona Anderson, Director of Property, Enterprise and Regeneration of Queens Cross Housing Association said: “The plans for Hamiltonhill will transform the area into a 21st Century neighbourhood, with spacious homes set amongst gardens and parkland, and excellent connections to the city centre.

“We can’t wait to see the first phase taking shape.”

 

semi detached house and apartment property available for sale in glasgow

 

Register your interest for Hamiltonhill Living

If you are interested in owning a property within this new development, please click here to register your interest.

With work starting early next year, a member of our sales and marketing team will soon be in touch to discuss the homes that we have available.

What does community housing mean?

Community has various meanings across different sectors, however when it comes to Urban Union housing, we consider it to be the sense of togetherness we bring to new residents within our developments and the existing local community which defines it.

It’s a founding part of our company ethos and determines the way in which each of our projects are carried out.

 

Group activities and involvement with housing development

Investing in our local neighbourhoods

As well as providing affordable homes for first time buyers, couples and families, our team organise regular charity activities and events within the areas in which our developments are based.

From our contribution to community arts within Pennywell, to our investment with Invisible Cities to train those who have previously experienced homelessness to provide walking tours within the Gorbals area of Glasgow. It is our intention to ensure our homeowners feel a sense of commitment to the regeneration of the area from ourselves and that we are present within each of our locations.

 

customer service to assist

Making sure our team are readily available to residents

And all of this doesn’t stop once we have completed our housing developments, we have recently launched a new mobile app for our customers which provides a real time messaging assistant, as well as creating a hub for all important home-related documents to be stored and searchable in one place.

We are committed to making sure we are readily available to provide support as and when it is required.

And, all of this has not gone unnoticed, with Urban Union having recently been nominated as a finalist in the 2023 Scottish Property Awards for work carried out within Laurieston Living.

 

new affordable apartments built within the Laurieston, Gorbals area of Glasgow

Browse our new homes and join the community

Interested in joining one of our communities? We currently have one and two bedroom apartments, as well as townhouses (Pollokshaws only), within our Pennywell Living and Pollokshaws Living developments.

We also have our new three and four bedroom townhouse options, some with roof terrace options, launching Saturday 28th January 2023 within Phase 3 of our Laurieston Living site.

Make sure to register your interest online and a member of our sales team will soon be in touch to provide you with more details.

Why must we invest in affordable housing?

An opinion piece by Urban Union Managing Director, Neil McKay. 

The current economic climate

Last year saw one of the biggest economic downturns of our time – but what does this mean for the housing market? The Bank of England has raised interest rates up to 3.5% – the highest rate since November 2008 and to add insult to injury, Standard Mortgage Rates (SMR) increased significantly resulting in major lenders pulling deals and returning with much higher prices due to ongoing market uncertainty.

But there is hope. The housing market is fundamental to the economy. Whilst housing investment is an unpredictable element to measuring the total output, if you were to buy a new home, it directly contributes to total output (GDP) via investment in land, building materials and job creation. Homes for Scotland reported that up to 79,200 people in Scotland are in employment supported by the housebuilding sector.

The importance of new homes

To support the industry, we need people to continue buying new homes, and with increased interest rates, these homes must be affordable. Building new, affordable homes will undoubtedly play a critical role in the nation’s recovery. Homes for Scotland’s report in March 2022 mentions the house building sector’s direct contribution to the Scottish economy is £1.8 billion direct Gross Value Added (GVA) and £3.4bn in direct, indirect and induced GVA.

For every £1 spent on construction alone, £2.84 of economic activity is generated, with 90 per cent of this spending retained in the UK. On top of this, as the country looks to the post-pandemic recovery, the sector has a substantial role to play.

Social housing and regeneration projects are just as important.

We must provide families and individuals with affordable and sustainable quality homes and social housing which align with the UK’s net zero objectives. All communities should have good public transport links and connectivity, in addition to being within proximity of city centres to help urban areas attract buyers.

Housing developments by Urban Union

At Urban Union, our developments across Scotland aim to be more than just the regeneration of bricks and mortar, but that of communities. In addition to the financial economic benefits, affordable housing can also significantly improve social benefits through creative activation of spaces. We can help promote healthy lifestyles and community interaction in public spaces – such as our recently converted community hub at Laurieston Living in Glasgow – to boost the wellbeing of those residing in our communities.

But we cannot do this on our own and whilst there is help from the Government, it may not be enough. The Affordable Housing Supply Programme (AHSP) from the Scottish Government states it is committed to delivering 110,000 affordable homes by 2032 of which at least 70% will be available for social rent and 10% will be in remote, rural and island communities. However, the March 2022 Homes for Scotland report has indicated that at least 25,000 new homes per annum need to be built to keep pace with demand.

A clear and sustainable investment in regeneration and affordable housing, will not only address Scotland’s housing shortfall and support economic recovery, but will also have a significant positive impact on the wellbeing of our communities at a time where economic certainty and the value of our communities has never been more important.

Neil McKay is Managing Director, Urban Union

The newly appointed Chancellor, Kwasi Kwarteng, last week announced a radical set of measures to help to tackle the current cost of living crisis.

One of the commitments was to cut taxes with the view that if people are making more money, they’ll spend more which will boost the economy’s growth. It was seen as a risky strategy, especially as business and consumer confidence is low, and cutting taxes contradicts the measures brought in by the Bank of England with the recent interest rate rises to tackle inflation.

Several measures announced last week will affect people here in Scotland, including the reversal of the National Insurance increase for employers as of April this year and the retention of the corporation tax rate.

Whisky distillers and brewers will see an end to planned reforms of alcohol duty, and retailers will see a new system to boost VAT-free shopping by foreign tourists. In addition, the reversal of tax reforms for people who are currently self-employed will cover the whole of the UK.

However, several announcements will not apply to Scots, including the cut in additional rate income tax from 45% to 40% on earnings above £150,000. The rate here remains at 46%. Also, a cut in basic rate tax from 20p to the pound to 19p does not apply here.

Property

One of the main headlines from last week was the cut in stamp duty for property transactions. This only applied in England and Northern Ireland, given that here in Scotland, we have the Lands and Building Transaction Tax (LBTT) system.

In the budget last week, the Chancellor announced that stamp duty would not be charged on the first £250,000 of a property purchase for people moving home. This up from the current level of £125,000. To help people realise their dream of property ownership, stamp duty will not be paid on the first £425,000 of a property worth up to £625,000 bought by first-time buyers.

In the previous scheme, introduced during the pandemic, first-time buyers were not charged stamp duty on the first £300,000 of a home costing up to £500,000.

The same savings could be made available to Scots, but it’s all dependent on the government. This tax cut which doesn’t apply to us, is treated by the Treasury as a giveaway to non-Scottish individuals. A proportionate share of that giveaway is handed to Holyrood. This allows Scottish ministers to deploy the funds as they choose.

Following the announcement about stamp duty, Holyrood will be given an increase in block grants from the Treasury of £630m spread over this year and the next two financial years.

Cutting the basic income tax for the rest of the UK is a boost for Holyrood of £340m over the next financial year and the year after. The element of reduced property transaction tax in England and Northern Ireland adds up to £170m over three years. Some £120m is in place of the reduction in top rate income tax, which cuts the tax bill for the average non-Scots high earner by £10,000. That widens the gap between Scots and non-Scots high earners when Scots already pay higher tax rates above £50,000.

Holyrood could cut tax in similar ways or spend it on different priorities – time will tell as to whether Scots will see similar savings when purchasing a property.