Search for living space leads to West Lothian

Capital’s demands pulls in commuters from far and wide, writes Kirsty Mcluckie

It is a well worn path for families who have been priced out of the Edinburgh market, to switch their property search to the surrounding areas for larger homes, gardens and access to the countryside.

A release of homes at Chandler’s Way in Broxburn, West Lothian, is hoping to meet demand from such buyers but is also attracting attention from further afield. It seems that purchasers from other parts of the UK have caught on to the benefits of living near a relatively small city such as Edinburgh, with easy commuting from the surrounding area at an affordable price.

The homes at Chandler’s Way range from the three-bedroomed semidetached Glencoe at £211,995, to the Muirfield four-bedroomed detached from £298,995.

Lynn Pringle, head of sales at Bellway Homes (Scotland East), says: “With prices in Edinburgh continuing to soar despite the political uncertainty, more families are looking slightly further afield and tell us how surprised they are by how much they can get for their money in Broxburn.

“We have had people coming to Chandler’s Gate from England, attracted by the short commute to Edinburgh and close proximity to Edinburgh Airport, which is less than five miles from the development.”

Chandler’s Way will feature 176 three and four-bedroomed detached homes when complete, and the development is named in honour of the town’s candle-making industry.

Broxburn is a popular commuter location and the presence of the Union Canal, which runs through the town to the heart of Edinburgh 12 miles away, is very much a bonus for walkers, runners and cyclists.

The town has a selection of independent food stores and boutiques, along with a fully-equipped leisure centre, local golf course and several well-regarded eateries.

At weekends, families can enjoy exploring nearby Almondell and Calderwood Country Park, where roe deer, herons and woodpeckers, among other wildlife, can be spotted.

Ideal for families, Chandler’s Way is within close proximity to Broxburn Primary and St Nicholas Primary, while older students are catered for by Broxburn Academy or Clifton Hall School. Additionally, Heriot-watt University is within easy reach.

The A89 is located two minutes from the development and connects Glasgow to Newbridge in Edinburgh and the M8 is a short drive away. Uphall railway station provides regular services to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Helensburgh Central.

Buyers can see the high quality of specification available at Chandlers Way by visiting the Rosedale and Birkdale showhomes. The Rosedale has a fresh, summery interior filled with bright botanical prints, while the Birkdale has a very luxurious feel with soft browns, golds and inky blues employed to dramatic effect.

Currently on offer is Plot 71, a fourbedroomed Pinehurst, which comes complete with flooring throughout and an upgraded kitchen with fully integrated appliances.

It is priced at £287,995 and is available with Bellway’s Express Mover service, which aims to help with relocations.

A substantial family home, the Pinehurst features a large 21-foot long open-plan kitchen with dining area, a bright lounge, a utility room, cloakroom and an integrated garage on the ground floor.

Upstairs, the master bedroom has an ensuite shower room, there is a family bathroom and three other bedrooms.