Birch House, Pegler Square, London, SE3

Although many London areas are being upgraded, it would be hard to find a more positive example of urban renewal than Kidbrooke Village. Here, developers, Berkeley have taken a bold step to transform post-war social housing into a tranquil oasis of beautifully designed apartments complemented by green open spaces. In doing so, they have not only changed the face of the area and attracted new businesses, but have made this large-scale housing scheme a good property investment with long-term rental potential. Good transport links and superb views of the City and Docklands skylines are part of the appeal and convenience of living in this emerging corner of South East London. Comprising four separate phases that interlink into a cohesive neighbourhood with the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Kidbrooke Village combines urban vibrancy with family-friendly parkland. All of the one, two and three bedroom apartments contain either balcony, terrace or indoor ‘winter gardens’ that overlook podium gardens, all set in 86 acres of including nature reserve and peaceful water features. The interiors are designed and built to the usual high standards that Berkeley are known for and on-site facilities which include a residents’ gym, 24-hour concierge and cycle store. The development’s main plaza is handily situated near Kidbrooke mainline rail station (Zone 3) and is also the site of a Sainsbury’s supermarket which is convenient for essential supplies and other well-known commercial brands. Trains take a mere 17 minutes to reach London Bridge Station and most City, West End and Docklands destinations can be reached in under half an hour. Good schools and some of the world’s top-ranking universities are all just a short commute away. Nearby Blackheath and historical Greenwich are both easily accessible and well worth a visit.