New Waterfront homes have panoramic views

Ipswich Star: The new Genesis Housing apartments on Stoke Quay in Ipswich.The new Genesis Housing apartments on Stoke Quay in Ipswich.

The Ipswich skyline has been transformed by the new Genesis Housing development at Stoke Quay, close to the Waterfront.

Now, as the development reaches its final stages, we have been given an exclusive preview of the apartments which weill be available at Stoke Quay.

These include one and two bedroom apartments which can be bought on a shared ownership basis, and apartments available for private rental - and at local market rents.

The development also includes some four bedroom houses.

Externally communal gardens and public areas are now being landscaped.

The mult-million pound regeneration scheme is nearing completion with the first two apartment blocks, Leven Court and Avalon Court, now being handed over by the builders to the housing association.

Two show apartments are available to view, on the third floor, within Leven Court which is alongside Great Whip Street.

We were invited along to see them.

There are lifts to all floors, spacious hallways and reception areas.

From the northern side, in particular, of Avalon Court there are spectacular views across Ipswich Waterfront and towards Ipswich town centre.

We went up by lift up to the 10th floor to see the panoramic views from balconies across the water towards the Old Custom House, Neptune Quay and the university building.

For those wanting to buy a home, but struggling to raise a deposit, then shared ownership is an option here at Stoke Quay.

Buyers can buy a share of their new home and pay a subsidised rent on the rest.

The shared ownership scheme means that buyers can purchase between 25% and 75% of the property, paying subsidised rent on the remainder, and can increase their share at any time, all the way to 100% and outright ownership.

The scheme is specifically designed for first time buyers whose household income is less than £60,000 a year and priority will be given to those who live or work in Ipswich.

Anthony Harker, head of commercial at Genesis says “We are proud to offer affordable living in an area of regeneration overlooking the historic River Orwell. Stoke Quay is a perfect chance to live alongside this, and to enjoy the vast history of the marina. The development is also located nearby to local attractions, extensive retail and leisure facilities, making it great for busy modern lifestyles.”

Here, in Ipswich then Genesis is also moving into the private rental market.

Renting at Genesis is another option, offering tenants stability and security with tenancies available in a choice of lengths, from one to five years, subject to availability.

The rental prices at Stoke Quay are expected to start from £550pcm for a one bedroom apartment and £700pcm for a two bedroom apartment home.

For further information on buying or renting at Stoke Quay visit Genesis online at www.genesishomes.org.uk or telephone the help line on 0800 954 1041.

Appointments can be made to view the show apartments on Saturdays throughout March.

It will also be possible to get advice about shared ownership.

The rental properties will include stylish interiors finished to a high standard, said a spokesman.

They include contemporary fitted kitchens incorporating a range of appliances, including washing machines and fridge freezers.

Living areas are open plan and there are large windows to make the most of natural light.

Homes are either carpeted or also include vinyl flooring, and tiled bathrooms include high quality suites with baths/showers and wash basins.