
As summer holidays and extreme heat waves draw people away from town centres, Britain's high streets are experiencing a seasonal halt - footfall has fallen by 6.2% in the five weeks to 5th July 2026 compared with the same period last year.* Despite this seasonal dip, many high streets remain vibrant destinations, with local businesses, cafés, markets and community spaces continuing to bring people together and support thriving neighbourhoods.
Research shows that supporting local not only strengthens the local economy and enhances community resilience, but encourages a more sustainable, community-centric way of living.** Helping to reinvigorate the great British High Street, leading housing association L&Q has a number of new developments currently available close to popular town centres.
In West London, Kew Bridge Rise offers a selection of one- and two-bedroom Shared Ownership apartments on the border of Chiswick and Brentford. The development, delivered in partnership with The Hill Group, will provide 441 homes, including 152 for Shared Ownership and 66 for affordable rent. A range of on-site amenities complement the development’s desirable location, including a co-working space, a state-of-the-art gym, an in-house concierge and a nursery, which is set to open soon.***
Just a 20-minute walk from the popular Chiswick High Road, residents are perfectly placed to enjoy one of London’s most sought-after high streets. Lined with independent boutiques and popular dining spots, the charming high street has a vibrant atmosphere, with weekend themed markets running throughout the year centred around antiques, flowers and even cheeses.
In North London, L&Q at Alexandra Gate is just a short walk away from the iconic Alexandra Palace and offers residents easy access to Muswell Hill and Wood Green. The pathways of Alexandra Park lead directly to Muswell Hill Broadway, lined with delis, fashion boutiques, and independent cafes. Meanwhile, nearby Wood Green High Road offers a mix of international retailers, restaurants and entertainment, serving as a major commercial hub for residents.
Set within North London’s most exciting regeneration areas, the homes are flooded with natural light, and each benefit from private outdoor space as well as access to landscaped communal green spaces including the public garden and new pocket square.
Heading to the Northwest of England, Whalley Manor in Lancashire is nestled on the edge of the Ribble Valley and has been carefully designed to maximise its rural views. Delivered in partnership with Lovell Homes, Whalley Manor offers a varied selection of two to five-bedroom homes available for sale, offering flexible living space for growing families looking to settle within one of Lancashire’s most sought-after communities.
Just a short walk away, Whalley's picturesque high street offers a range of independent boutiques, cafés and everyday essentials. Residents are also a 12-minute drive of Clitheroe Market, where they can find a selection of artisan delights and fresh local produce.
Prices at Kew Bridge Rise start from £108,125 for a 25% share of a one-bedroom apartment (full market value: £432,500) and £136,250 for a 25% share of a two-bedroom apartment (full market value: £545,000).
Prices at Alexandra Gate for the Shared Ownership homes start from £126,250 for a 25% share of a two-bedroom apartment (FMV: £505,000).
Prices at Whalley Manor start from £534,950 for a four-bedroom home.
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