Best build-to-rent development

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This scheme has transformed a brownfield site in central Milton Keynes into 306 homes for rent, 43 of which are offered at discounted market rent for key workers and lower-income households.

 

The development also contains more than an acre of new green space, just seven minutes’ walk from the train station and five minutes from the city centre.

 

Arbour sets a benchmark in residential design and delivers a suite of best-in-class amenities, all of which have garnered outstanding resident feedback. The scheme’s all-electric, high-efficiency homes incorporate a range of clean, low-energy technologies such as heat pumps and solar panels.

 

The development also includes EV chargers and secure storage for 336 bicycles, while residents have access to rental bikes on site and a car-sharing club. Other amenities include an orangery, gym, co-working space and communal lounge. An on-site team plans and promotes regular events, including ArbourFest, a summer festival featuring local musicians and food stalls. 

 

“Living here has been the best experience,” wrote one resident. “From day one, everything has been smooth and enjoyable.”

 

The judges said:

“A brilliant and well-thought-out submission. The development meets local housing needs, including those of key workers. It delivers innovative examples of resident amenities and rates well for sustainability”