Case study: Newly-weds find their ideal first home in Billericay

When looking for a new home in Essex, location was key for newly-weds Tony and Wendy Field. Needing a property close to the station for commuting to London as well as near local amenities, the couple found that Banner Homes' Cherry Tree Park development in Billericay ticked all the boxes.

"Billericay seemed like a perfect location for us with its brilliant transport links and lovely high street," says Wendy. "We started looking at properties that were a little further away from the main high street and soon realised that we wanted something a little more central and within walking distance of all the local amenities. Cherry Tree Park provided just that.

"I commute into London on a daily basis for work so I also wanted somewhere that was nearby to the train station. Cherry Tree Park is a 15-minute walk from Billericay station and the commute into the City is really quick and easy; it takes no more than 35 minutes to get to London Liverpool Street, which is great!"

One of Banner Homes' first developments of new homes in Essex, Cherry Tree Park offers two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom properties in a variety of sizes and styles from terrace to detached. Prices start from £290,000 for a two-bedroom house, which boasts a separate sitting room, kitchen/breakfast area, downstairs cloakroom, en suite facilities to the master bedroom, family bathroom and outdoor space.

It was this space, as well as the quality of the finish, that also attracted the couple to the development. "Tony and I previously lived in separate properties but, after getting married last year, it was time to buy our first place together with more space, such as a separate room for guests, a bigger garden and a separate garage," adds Wendy. "Another key factor for us was the high specification of the homes; we have always lived in slightly older, period properties so we were keen to buy a new build that provided less maintenance. The high standard of the interiors at Cherry Tree Park was certainly one of the first things that attracted us to the new homes."

And it's not just Wendy and Tony drawn to Cherry Tree Park; 50% of the first phase of homes has already sold since launching in February.

Billericay itself is becoming a popular area with purchasers, with its charming traditional buildings, exceptional green open spaces and diverse amenities. Norsey Wood, an ancient woodland, and the adjacent Mill Meadows are the local nature reserves while the Lake Meadows is a town centre park providing activities such as tennis, mini golf, fishing and summertime open air concerts. Meanwhile, Billericay High Street is lined with restaurants, boutiques, supermarkets, independent shops, traditional public houses as well as a hint of vibrant nightlife.

The stunning Stock Brook Country Club is also home to a championship golf course plus the quality and convenience of the local schools, including the highly respected Billericay School, is appealing for young families hoping to find a property in the area. Other neighbouring towns, such as Chelmsford and Southend, are also within easy reach via the nearby A127 or A12, whilst the M25 is conveniently located a few miles to the west.

Show homes are open at Cherry Tree Park Thursday to Monday from 10.00am to 5.00pm, or call the Banner Homes team on 0845 388 5991.