HALF of the new homes in a prestigious new development have sold since it launched just 18 weeks ago.

Buyers are racing to snap new apartments in Victoria Central, Southend, with an average of six sales a week.

The £53.8 million residential-led scheme in Victoria Avenue, developed by leading UK housebuilder Weston Homes, launched in mid-January. Four months later, half of the homes have been sold by property consultancy Knight Frank.

It follows a string of conversions of former office tower blocks in Victoria Avenue which have also proved popular with buyers.

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The transformation of the run down blocks have led some to dub Victoria Avenue Southend’s Mayfair.

The popularity of the apartments was welcomed by the newly appointed councillor responsible for communities and housing, Anne Jones. She said: “I’m really happy that we’ve managed to get developers doing that. Victoria Avenue looked disgraceful for decades.

“The previous administration got that started by talking to people. When we said we were going to do something about it it hurried things along.

“It’s thanks to the previous joint administration that the whole regeneration of Victoria Avenue got started.”

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Edward Robinson, a Partner in the New Homes team at Knight Frank said: “Knight Frank has been averaging six deals per week at Victoria Central since it launched in January, which is equivalent to almost a deal a day. There is a very good reason why it has been so popular.

“Southend has been steadily growing in popularity over recent years, and is especially sought-after by first-time buyers, young professionals and families. Offering a quick commute into central London, coupled with an abundance of outdoor space and accessible property prices, homes in Southend are in high demand, and property is getting snapped up.”

Victoria Central is a 217-unit development comprising a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments complete with a landscaped courtyard, stylish entrance foyer and 275 sqm of ground floor commercial space.

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Once completed, the development will be a 15-storey, striking brick and glass façade building with glass-fronted balustrades and a raised, glazed ground floor. The development will have a seven-storey rear wing and the landscaped courtyard will feature timber decking, stone-bordered plant beds and semi-mature trees.

Five communal rooftop terraces will also be available, giving residents the opportunity to socialise or simply enjoy the fantastic views over the town.

Prices start from £186,250 for a one-bedroom apartment and £220,000 for a two-bedroom apartment.

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