Here, we break down exactly what determines your mortgage rates, how different Leicestershire neighbourhoods stack up, and how to position yourself for the best possible deal. 

How are mortgage rates calculated for Leicester buyers? 

While lenders set their pricing nationally, your loan-to-value (LTV) ratio – the size of your deposit relative to the property’s purchase price – and the property you choose in Leicester will dictate your custom quote. Because financial products fluctuate constantly based on global swap markets, checking live rate tables or speaking with a broker is essential to lock in your final numbers. Fixed-rate products remain the most popular choice for buyers looking for long-term monthly security. 

Rather than looking at static national averages, your true borrowing costs depend heavily on your deposit tier: 

• High-Equity Tiers (60% LTV or lower): Typically unlock a lender’s most competitive base rates, as the lender takes on minimal risk 
• Mid-Range Tiers (75% to 80% LTV): Offer a balanced middle ground, suitable for home movers rolling existing equity into their next purchase 
• Low-Deposit Tiers (90% to 95% LTV): Carry a pricing premium to offset the higher borrowing risk, making early structural budgeting vital for first-time buyers 

Click here to view this week’s live interest rate tiers and calculate your projected monthly repayments 

Leicester spotlight: How rates and affordability vary by area 

While a lender offers the same baseline interest rates across England, your true affordability shifts dramatically depending on where you look in the city. Desirable areas with excellent transport links, top-tier school catchments or proximity to major employment hubs command premium house prices in Leicester. This forces buyers to take out larger loans, potentially pushing them into higher LTV brackets with steeper interest rates.  

Here is how Leicester’s key neighbourhoods compare in property values and marketing positioning: 

• Stoneygate – deemed top tier and highly sought-after for its grand Edwardian and Victorian architecture. Consistently commands premium average property values sitting well above the city mid-line. 
• Abbey Wharf (Wolsey Island) – A fast-growing riverside district combining urban village living with city access. With highly efficient three-story homes from £365,000, it offers premium contemporary space without the steep price tags of older suburbs, helping buyers keep their required loan size lower 
• Oadby – consistently strong for families due to its reputation for exceptional local schools and superb amenities. A competitive family bracket that often requires a robust structural deposit to secure prime LTV terms 
• Clarendon Park – highly popular with young professionals and academics as it’s close to the University of Leicester. Expect a fast-moving market frequently shifting within the city’s mid-tier price brackets 
• Knighton – a leafy, family-friendly suburb providing excellent neighbourhood safety and community parks. Offers steady value tracking closely alongside neighbouring premium corridors 
  

How Leicester’s housing market shapes local mortgage rates 

It’s a chain reaction; local market performance impacts property valuations, which directly influences lender risk and the mortgage products available to you. The Leicester housing market is currently shaped by several localised pressures: 

• Strong house demand – Leicester remains a primary East Midlands hub, drawing commuters and families migrating from higher-cost southern regions 
• Rental market pressures – a booming student and professional population keeps the buy-to-let market competitive, squeezing available stock for residential buyers 
• Local economic stability – strong employment sectors in healthcare, education and manufacturing give lenders higher confidence in the local population’s borrowing capacity 
• Rising house prices – steady increases in local property values mean buyers need larger deposits to access the lowest tier of national mortgage rates 
  
  

National factors that affect mortgage rates 

Local conditions dictate what you need to borrow, but macroeconomics dictate how much the lender charges you to borrow it. The following national metrics heavily influence the offers you see locally: 

• Bank of England base rate – This provides a baseline of stability for trackers and variable products, though fixed rates remain sensitive to future forecasts. 
• Inflation trends – The Bank of England manages interest rates to keep consumer price inflation near its strict 2% target. When inflation runs above this target, lenders typically price their long-term fixed deals more cautiously in anticipation of higher central bank rates. 
• Lender funding costs – The cost of “swap rates” – the rates at which banks lend money to one another – constantly fluctuates based on global financial stability, shifting retail mortgage pricing week-by-week. 
• Government schemes – Ongoing first-time buyer incentives and localised shared-ownership initiatives continue to alter deposit requirements, helping buyers access better interest tiers. 
  
  

Tips for getting the best mortgage rate in Leicester 

Securing competitive mortgage rates in Leicester requires active preparation. To slice fractions of a percent off your incoming mortgage deal, utilise these core strategies: 

• Using a local mortgage broker – A broker with specific knowledge of Leicestershire can access exclusive regional builder incentives or localised lending criteria that high-street search engines miss 
• Improving your credit profile – Settle outstanding lines of credit, correct voting register errors, and pause applications for new credit cards at least six months before applying 
• Timing your application – Work with your broker to lock in an attractive fixed rate early; most offers are valid for up to 6 months, protecting you if swap rates tick upwards 
• Understanding lender criteria – Some lenders look more favourably on specific property types (like Motion’s energy-efficient new builds), unlocking lower ‘green mortgage’ interest rates that sit lower than standard baseline products
  
  

Final thoughts: Navigating Leicester’s mortgage market with confidence 

Understanding how house prices in Leicester and local demand impact your borrowing power is essential for a successful property journey. Because affordability and market speed differ wildly between premium zones like Stoneygate and busy student hubs like Clarendon Park, thorough local research is your strongest asset before making your move. 

Are you ready to take your next step into the local property market?  

Explore Motion Homes’ latest developments or get in touch with our team today to find your perfect Leicestershire home https://motionhomes.co.uk/our-developments. 

The post Mortgage rates in Leicester: Understanding local affordability and the housing market appeared first on Motion Homes.

Here, we explore just what contributes to a more energy efficient home, what buyers can expect and how to check the efficiency of your new home.

What makes new builds energy efficient?

• At a glance: Airtight construction that prevents draughts
• High performance glazing to lessen heat loss from windows
• Advanced insulation in walls, floors and roofs to retain warmth
• Low carbon heating through air source heat pumps, for example
• Smart energy monitoring

From the foundation to the roof, modern developers utilise energy efficient house features designed to drastically reduce heat loss and lower carbon emissions. Unlike older properties that rely on retrofitting, a new build has sustainability woven directly into its structural DNA. Here is a look at the core components that make these properties so eco-friendly:

Modern insulation standards

Unlike Victorian or mid-century properties, an energy efficient new build features high-specification cavity wall insulation, deep loft insulation, and underfloor thermal barriers. These features trap heat inside the property, meaning your heating system doesn’t have to work overtime to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Triple/modern double glazing

Windows are notoriously responsible for heat loss in older properties. New builds utilise advanced double or triple glazing filled with argon gas, paired with thermally broken frames. This drastically reduces cold spots and prevents draughts, while simultaneously offering superior acoustic insulation from the outside world.

Energy efficient heating systems

Say goodbye to outdated, inefficient boilers. Modern developments are increasingly shifting toward low-carbon heating systems. Technologies like Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs) and highly efficient modern combi-boilers require a fraction of the energy to heat your water and radiators, significantly slashing your carbon footprint.

Smart home tech

Improving energy management is seamless in a modern home. Smart thermostats, smart meters, and zone-controlled heating allow homeowners to track their energy usage in real-time and only heat the rooms they are actively using, eradicating wasted energy.

UK building regulations that improve efficiency

The new build homes being built today must follow strict UK statutory regulations. These legal requirements guarantee that developers are prioritising the planet – and your wallet.

Part L: This critical section of the UK Building Regulations dictates the conservation of fuel and power. It was significantly tightened in 2022 to mandate a 31% reduction in carbon emissions for new homes, with further stringent updates rolled out to bridge the gap toward total decarbonisation.

Future Homes Standard: This revolutionary framework requires all newly built homes to be future-proofed with low-carbon heating and world-class energy efficiency, ensuring no new homes rely on fossil fuel gas networks.

Requirements for low‑carbon heating: Under these evolving rules, the installation of traditional gas boilers is being phased out in favour of renewable alternatives like heat pumps and communal heat networks.

Real energy savings: What buyers can expect

Investing in energy efficient homes translates directly into tangible financial and lifestyle perks.

Average annual bill reductions: Statistics show that the average new build home (typically achieving an EPC rating new build of A or B) costs significantly less to run than an older property. While an older EPC D or E rated home faces soaring annual energy bills, new build owners can expect to save thousands of pounds a year on a like-for-like basis.

Reduced maintenance costs: Because everything from the radiators to the window seals are brand new and built to strict modern standards, you won’t have to worry about costly retrofitting or emergency boiler repairs for years to come.

Long‑term value and resale benefits: Energy efficiency is no longer a “nice-to-have” – it is a major selling point. Properties with high efficiency ratings hold their value incredibly well and are highly sought after by future buyers, safeguarding your investment.

How to check the energy efficiency of a new build

When purchasing a property, always check the credentials yourself and check in with your developer to confirm exactly how efficient the property is. You can verify this through:

Request the EPC (energy performance certificate): It rates the property from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Look for that coveted A or B rating.

SAP score: The Standard Assessment Procedure is the government’s official system for assessing the energy performance of dwellings. Your developer can provide this breakdown.

Developer specifications: Ask for a detailed fixture list detailing the U-values (heat loss rates) of the windows, insulation materials, and the specific models of the heating systems installed.

On‑site checks before completion: During your home demonstration or snagging walkthrough, verify that smart meters are installed and ask for a demonstration on how the low-carbon heating systems operate.

Should you choose a new build for better energy efficiency?

If minimising your carbon footprint and lowering your monthly outgoings are high on your priority list, the answer is a resounding yes. Thanks to cutting-edge construction methods, advanced energy efficient house features, and strict compliance with the Future Homes Standard, modern properties outperform older homes on every environmental metric.

As well as offering a fresh, modern living space, a new build is a smart financial choice – providing more predictable living costs and a healthier, warmer home for years to come.

Take a look at Motion Homes’ latest developments: https://motionhomes.co.uk/our-developments

The post Are new builds more energy efficient? appeared first on Motion Homes.

The Midlands is a rapidly growing region – from the established industrial heritage of Telford in the West Midlands to the historic, bustling city centre of Leicester in the East Midlands, the choice of where to plant roots has never been more exciting.

For those exploring new builds at The Woodlands or our upcoming riverside homes at Abbey Wharf, finding the right fit means balancing local lifestyle with long-term value.

The Midlands property market guide

As of early 2026, the Midlands continues to outperform many of the southern regions in terms of resilience and value.

In areas like Telford, the market remains particularly attractive for first-time buyers and families, offering an alternative to the busier, more expensive Birmingham market. Leicester also remains a hidden gem for buyers looking for value and growth. Here you can find all the benefits of a city hub with great connections and a thriving cultural scene, at a more attractive price point than other parts of the East Midlands and southern areas.

With interest rates fluctuating, more buyers are now weighing up the long-term financial benefits of ‘new vs old’ and what will make the most ideal investment for the future.

Why buy a new build in the Midlands?

In the both the West and East Midlands, where a mix of Victorian industrial heritage and modern regeneration meets, the new build advantage is clearer than ever. Beyond just being ‘new,’ these homes are engineered for modern lifestyles – prioritising ultra-fast connectivity, sustainable materials and layouts that actually work for remote workers and busy families.

Efficiency and bills

Most new build homes now achieve an EPC rating of A or B. In contrast, the average older property in the Midlands sits at a D. With energy prices remaining a key household concern, this can have a significant impact on finances.

In fact, owners of new-build houses save an average of £421 per year on energy bills compared to those in older homes, according to recent data from the Home Builders Federation (HBF). For those moving from an uninsulated period property (EPC F or G), that saving can leap to over £600 a year.

Smooth moves

Buying new offers you a chain-free purchase – you are the first owner, meaning no complicated upward sellers or buyers that could collapse your deal. While there might still be some delays in the building process, this will always be communicated for more peace of mind – helping you to prep for the big day.

Minimal maintenance

With a Premier Guarantee 10-year warranty, you won’t be worrying about roof repairs or boiler breakdowns for the first decade in your new home. Any potential snags can be easily picked up and sorted out by our dedicated team.

Older homes in the Midlands

While buying an older home can offer a property with more character with a more established neighbourhood, the work to modernise and bring them up to new build standard can be quite intensive.

Harder to heat

Older homes, particularly the solid-brick terraces common in the Midlands, lose heat rapidly through walls, floors and single-glazed windows. To bring a Victorian home up to the same EPC A or B standard as a Motion Home, homeowners in 2026 can expect to pay tens of thousands of pounds in retrofitting costs.

More maintenance

Data shows that homes over 30 years old cost an average of £2,500 – £4,000 annually in maintenance. From aging plumbing to repointing brickwork, these are ‘invisible’ costs that new build owners simply don’t have.

Upgrade and upkeep

When you buy ‘old,’ you often inherit someone else’s DIY choices. Modernising a kitchen or bathroom to a high standard in 2026 often costs 20% more than it did five years ago due to material and labour costs. With a new build, that high-spec finish is included from day one.

Price comparison: What buyers can expect

Telford and Leicester vs. Birmingham

The average property price in Telford (approx. £220,000) offers significantly more “house for your money” than Birmingham (approx. £231,000), especially for detached family homes where the gap is even wider.

While average property prices in Leicester are around the same as Birmingham (£233,000), there is arguably a better balance when it comes to cost of living and a more compact city structure.

The ‘new build premium’ myth

While new builds often carry a slightly higher sticker price, when you factor in the incentives (such as Motion Homes’ 5% deposit on selected plots, help to sell, part exchange) and the zero-cost maintenance for the first decade, the total cost of ownership is often lower than an older home.

Energy efficient homes: Buying with the future in mind

Midland’s winters can be damp and grey. Our new builds at The Woodlands and Abbey Wharf use efficient combi boilers and enhanced insulation as standard, to help improve comfort levels.

This doesn’t just keep the heat in; it prevents the damp and mould issues that plague 40% of older UK properties. Buying new isn’t just about saving money today but also future-proofing your asset against upcoming 2030 energy regulations.

Choosing the right home in today’s Midland’s housing market

Ready to skip the ‘fixer-upper’ stress? Discover a home that works as hard as you do. View our energy-efficient two, three and four-bedroom homes at The Woodlands and Abbey Wharf and see the new build difference for yourself: https://motionhomes.co.uk/our-developments

The post New builds vs older homes in the Midlands: Buyer Guide appeared first on Motion Homes.

For those considering a move to The Woodlands at Lightmoor Village in Telford, the area offers a range of well-regarded primary and secondary schools within easy reach. These include local village schools as well as wider options across Telford and Shropshire, giving families a variety of educational pathways to consider.

Primary schools near Lightmoor Village

Lightmoor Village and the surrounding area offer several primary school options, each with its own ethos and strengths.

Lightmoor Village Primary School

Location: Lightmoor Way, Lightmoor Village
Ofsted rating: Good (with Outstanding features)

Located within the village itself, Lightmoor Village Primary School is at the heart of the local community. It is known for a welcoming atmosphere, strong early years provision and close links with families living in the area.

As the closest primary school to The Woodlands, it is typically considered the most local option for residents.

Dawley C of E Primary Academy

Location: Doseley Road, Dawley
Ofsted rating: Good

Dawley C of E Primary Academy offers a Church of England ethos alongside a supportive and inclusive learning environment. As part of an academy trust, it benefits from wider collaboration and shared educational standards.

It is a short distance from Lightmoor Village and is a popular choice for local families.

St Luke’s Catholic Primary School

Location: Church Road, Wrockwardine Wood
Ofsted rating: Outstanding

St Luke’s Catholic Primary School is highly regarded for both academic achievement and pastoral care. As a faith school, admissions priority is generally given to baptised Catholic children, with other applications considered where places allow.

St Mary’s and St Patrick’s Catholic Primary Schools

Locations: Wellington, Telford
Ofsted ratings: Good / Outstanding

St Mary’s Catholic Primary School and St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School serve the wider Telford area and are known for strong academic performance and a faith-based approach to education. Admission is primarily based on religious criteria rather than strict geographical catchment.

Secondary schools near Lightmoor Village

Families in Lightmoor Village have access to a range of secondary schools, including mainstream academies and selective grammar options in the wider area.

The Telford Langley School

Location: Duce Drive, Dawley
Ofsted rating: Good

The Telford Langley School is generally regarded as the local secondary school for the area. It offers a broad curriculum, modern facilities and a strong focus on personal development and preparing students for future education and careers.

Madeley Academy

Location: Castlefields Way, Madeley
Ofsted rating: Good (Outstanding personal development)

Madeley Academy is a well-established secondary school known for its supportive environment and strong sixth form provision. It also offers specialist sports facilities and plays an active role in the local community.

Haberdashers’ Adams (Adams’ Grammar School)

Location: Newport, Shropshire
Ofsted rating: Outstanding

Haberdashers’ Adams is one of the region’s most prestigious grammar schools. Admission is selective and based on performance in the 11+ entrance examination rather than catchment area.

The school is boys-only for Years 7–11, with a co-educational sixth form, and also offers boarding options.

School admissions and planning a move

When moving to a new area, school admissions are an important consideration for families.

Admission arrangements vary between schools, with factors such as distance, faith criteria and entrance examinations all playing a role.

Families considering a move to Lightmoor Village are encouraged to review individual school admission policies and application timelines to understand how places are allocated and what may be required.

Why families choose Lightmoor Village

Lightmoor Village is a popular location for families thanks to its community feel, access to green space and proximity to a range of schools.

The Woodlands offers modern three and four-bedroom homes in a well-connected setting, making it a strong option for those looking to balance family life with access to education, transport links, and local amenities.

Find your family home at The Woodlands

With a variety of well-regarded schools nearby and a strong community environment, The Woodlands at Lightmoor Village offers an ideal setting for family living in Telford.

Discover our three and four-bedroom family homes now, by booking a tour here: https://motionhomes.co.uk/our-developments/the-woodlands-lightmoor-village-telford

The post Best schools near Lightmoor Village, Telford appeared first on Motion Homes.

Situated near Telford, recently identified by Zoopla as one of the most affordable places to live in the West Midlands, The Woodlands is well positioned to appeal to a wide range of purchasers, particularly families and first-time buyers seeking value without compromising on lifestyle or setting.

Alice and Dom were drawn to Motion Homes after recognising the company’s commitment to build quality.

Alice, resident at The Woodlands, said: “We chose Motion Homes because of the quality and attention to detail in their properties. From the very beginning the process felt transparent and straightforward, and the team were always responsive and helpful throughout. Moving into our new home has given us a real sense of security and the space to grow as a family, and we’re really pleased with our experience.”

The couple have already been enjoying their new surroundings, particularly the abundance of nearby green space and the sense of safety and community in the area. They also highlighted the personalisation options available within their home, alongside the high standard of fixtures and fittings, which helped create a home tailored to their needs. This first completion represents an important step for Motion Homes – the first private market brand under the Morro Partnerships umbrella.

Matt Moore, CEO of Morro Partnerships and Motion Homes, said: “Welcoming Alice and Dom to their new home at The Woodlands is significant for Motion Homes as the development moves from delivery into occupation. Since launching the brand, our focus has been on establishing Motion Homes as a next-generation housebuilder that combines considered design, build quality and a clear customer-first approach. “Seeing our first homeowners move into their Juniper home is a strong reflection of that approach in practice. As we progress the wider site, our priority remains on delivering consistently high standards across every home, while building on the momentum we’ve created across the Midlands.”

A total of 145 plots are located at our Woodlands development, which was recently awarded a Quality Accreditation Award from Premier Guarantee, after consistently scoring over 4.65 out of 5 across a six-month period. The rating reflects performance across key areas including general cooperation, health and safety, site management, workmanship and overall site tidiness.

We are also offering a selection of ten new homes at our Abbey Wharf development, situated at the popular Wolsey Island in Leicester.

To register your interest, contact us today.

The post Motion Homes welcomes first residents at popular Telford development appeared first on Motion Homes.

From the famous Golden Mile filled with an abundance of restaurants, retailers and jewellers, to the iconic Diwali Festival that attracts thousands of visitors every year, living in Leicester means being part of a city with huge personality and rich cultural heritage.

For those looking to settle in the area, developments such as Abbey Wharf place residents right in the heart of it all – combining peaceful riverside surroundings with easy access to everything the city has to offer.

Life at Abbey Wharf: Riverside living near the city

Situated on the locally famed Wolsey Island, Abbey Wharf offers a unique balance between city convenience and calm riverside living.

Located alongside the River Soar and within walking distance of Abbey Park, the development sits in one of Leicester’s most attractive residential pockets. Tree-lined walking routes, scenic canal paths and peaceful green spaces are all right on the doorstep, giving residents the opportunity to enjoy a slower pace of life while remaining close to the city centre.

This part of Leicester is also deeply connected to the city’s vibrant cultural identity. Just a short walk or cycle away lies Belgrave Road’s Golden Mile, widely known as one of the most exciting cultural districts in the UK. Here you’ll find authentic restaurants, jewellery stores and community temples, alongside the spectacular annual Diwali celebrations that illuminate the entire area.

For families and professionals already familiar with the city, living in Leicester at Abbey Wharf offers the best of both worlds – a quiet residential setting with quick access to work, schools and social life.

Public transport in Leicester

One of the many advantages of living in Leicester is how easy it is to travel both within the city and across the Midlands.

Whether commuting for work, heading into the city centre or exploring further afield, Leicester city transport links make getting around simple and convenient.

Rail links

Leicester Railway Station provides regular direct trains across the country, including journeys to London St Pancras in around an hour.

There are also frequent services to Nottingham, Derby, Birmingham and Sheffield, making it easy to travel throughout the Midlands and beyond.

For residents of Abbey Wharf, the station is only a short journey away, making rail travel a convenient option for both commuters and family trips.

Cycle routes

Leicester has developed an impressive network of cycle paths and green routes that make sustainable travel easy.

Many Leicester cycle routes follow the River Soar and nearby canal paths, offering scenic journeys through tree-lined walkways and open green spaces. The Grand Union Canal path provides an accessible route for both walking and cycling, including popular loops such as the 1.4-mile Fosse Community Centre circuit and the 3.3km Packhorse Bridge route.

Key stretches pass through wildlife-rich areas such as Aylestone Meadows and along the historic Great Central Way.

For residents at Abbey Wharf, cycling into the city centre can take just a few minutes, providing a relaxed and traffic-free alternative to driving.

Road access

For those travelling by car, Leicester is well connected to major routes across the Midlands.

The nearby M1 provides easy north-south access, while the M69 connects the city to Coventry and Birmingham. The A46 also links Leicester to Lincoln and Newark, making longer journeys straightforward.

A ring road system helps reduce congestion in the city centre, and continued infrastructure improvements aim to keep Leicester city transport running smoothly for residents and commuters alike.

Leicester shopping centres

Living in Leicester means having a wide range of shopping destinations within easy reach.

From major retail hubs to independent stores and cafés, the city offers something for every lifestyle.

Highcross Shopping Centre

Highcross is Leicester’s flagship retail destination and one of the most popular Leicester shopping centres.

Home to major brands such as Apple, Zara and John Lewis, the centre combines modern architecture with a wide range of shops, restaurants and entertainment options. For families and young professionals alike, it’s a lively destination where you can shop, dine and spend time together in the heart of the city.

Haymarket Leicester

For a slightly more relaxed shopping experience, the Haymarket Shopping Centre offers a convenient mix of high-street retailers and everyday essentials.

Located close to Leicester’s central transport links, it’s an ideal stop for a weekend browse, quick errands or meeting friends for lunch.

Living in Leicester: The green spaces

Despite its lively city centre, Leicester is home to a surprising number of green spaces where residents can relax and recharge.

For those living at Abbey Wharf, several of the city’s best parks are just a short walk or cycle away.

Bradgate Park

Located near Anstey in north Leicester, Bradgate Park is one of the region’s most beloved outdoor spaces.

The historic deer park spans more than 800 acres of open countryside, with rugged hills, ancient woodland and roaming herds of red and fallow deer. It’s a favourite destination for weekend walks, family picnics and exploring nature just outside the city.

Abbey Park

Just moments from Abbey Wharf, Abbey Park is widely considered Leicester’s most beautiful public park.

Divided by the River Soar, the park combines formal gardens, riverside walks and historic landmarks including the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey and Cavendish House. Throughout the year it hosts community events, making it a lively meeting place for residents while still offering peaceful spots for morning runs or afternoon picnics.

Family days out in Leicester

Leicester is a city that blends education, history and entertainment, making it easy to plan a memorable family day out in Leicester.

From royal discoveries to space exploration, there are plenty of attractions that keep visitors of all ages engaged.

King Richard III Visitor Centre

History comes to life at the award-winning King Richard III Visitor Centre.

Located on the site where the king’s remains were famously discovered in 2012, the centre tells the remarkable story of the monarch’s life, death and rediscovery. Interactive exhibits make it both educational and engaging, making it a popular destination for families and history enthusiasts alike.

National Space Centre

One of Leicester’s most recognisable landmarks, the National Space Centre sits just a short distance from Abbey Wharf.

With its impressive 42-metre Rocket Tower and the UK’s largest planetarium, the centre offers immersive exhibits and interactive displays that inspire curiosity about science and space.

It’s a fantastic attraction for families, schools and anyone interested in the future of space exploration.

Love what Leicester has to offer? Have it all on your doorstep

For those considering living in Leicester, Abbey Wharf presents an exciting opportunity to enjoy the city from one of its most appealing residential locations.

Set close to Wolsey Island and the River Soar, the development offers peaceful surroundings alongside easy access to Leicester’s vibrant cultural scene.

These aren’t traditional homes – Abbey Wharf properties feature clean lines and contemporary designs, making them ideal for modern families and professionals who want to stay connected to the city.

Residents benefit from:

• Connectivity: Walk or cycle to the Golden Mile, local temples and Leicester city transport links.
• Convenience: Supermarkets, gyms and everyday amenities are all within easy reach.
• Green living: Riverside cycle routes and nearby parks make commuting and outdoor recreation effortless.

If you like the sound of living in a new home in Leicester, contact the Motion Homes team today to learn more about the latest homes available at Abbey Wharf and book a viewing.

The post Living in Leicester: Why it’s ideal for family life appeared first on Motion Homes.

With winding streets designed to create a calm and pleasant atmosphere, The Woodlands helps you to feel ‘away from it all’ while still remaining close to essential facilities. A standout feature of this development is the involvement of Bournville Village Trust (BVT). Unlike many housing providers, BVT maintains a hands-on, on-site presence, ensuring the neighbourhood is beautifully maintained and providing a sense of security and quality that is rare to find.  

Telford public transport 

Whether you are commuting for work or planning a weekend adventure, living in Telford means having the West Midlands at your fingertips without the high price tag of the big cities.  

Rail links 

Telford Central railway station is just a short distance away, offering direct and frequent links to Birmingham, Shrewsbury and Wolverhampton. This makes it an ideal base for professionals, who want a quiet home life with an easy commute to major employment hubs 

Connectivity  

In addition to the rail network, The Woodlands is perfectly positioned for road travel. With easy access to the A5, M54 and M6, you can reach Birmingham and beyond with ease.  

For local travel, reliable bus services run throughout Telford’s neighbourhoods, ensuring schools and local amenities are always within reach. 

Parks and green spaces near Lightmoor Village, including Telford Town Park 

One of the standout features of living in Lightmoor Village is its impressive network of parks, open spaces and play areas. In fact, nearly half of the village is dedicated to green space, all carefully managed by Bournville Village Trust to ensure the environment remains safe, welcoming and beautifully maintained for residents. 

Within the village itself, families can enjoy several thoughtfully designed parks that encourage outdoor play and community life. Croppings Park and Stocking Park are two of the most popular spots, offering exciting play equipment including giant tunnel slides, climbing frames, dedicated bike tracks and skate ramps. These spaces give children plenty of room to explore, play and stay active while parents can relax in a safe, well-kept setting. 

For those who enjoy a slower pace, the nearby Lightmoor Local Nature Reserve provides over 60 acres of woodland, wildflower meadows and scenic walking trails. It’s the perfect place for weekend strolls, dog walks and family adventures in nature. 

Whether you’re walking through Stoney Hill, picking fruit from the community orchards, or spotting the village’s much-loved resident donkey, Norman, nature truly feels like an extension of your back garden in Lightmoor Village. 

And if you’re looking to explore even more outdoor space, the award-winning Telford Town Park is just a short drive away. One of the largest urban parks in the UK, it offers adventure playgrounds, walking trails, family events and seasonal activities, making it another fantastic destination for days out with the kids. 

Telford shopping centre

When it comes to retail, the Telford Centre is a large, modern facility that has undergone significant investment. It hosts major high street retailers, a vast array of restaurants and excellent family-friendly activities. Whether you are doing the weekly shop or enjoying a special occasion meal, everything you need is centrally located and easy to access. 

Telford kids’ activities: Indoor and outdoor 

Finding things to do with the little ones is easy here. From educational heritage sites to high-energy play zones, the range of Telford kids’ activities is impressive. 

Jungleland Telford 

For those rainy days, Jungleland is a local favourite. With various soft play zones tailored to different age groups and affordable party packages, it’s a go-to spot for burning off some energy in a safe environment. 

Hoo Zoo & Dinosaur World (Hoo Farm)  

A fantastic family day out, this attraction offers intimate animal encounters and keeper experiences. With seasonal events and educational value baked into every visit, it’s a place where children can learn about wildlife while enjoying extensive play areas. 

Explore Ironbridge Gorge in Telford 

Just a short drive from The Woodlands is the world-famous Ironbridge Gorge – a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s perfect for families who love the outdoors, offering scenic riverside walks, fascinating museums and easy trails that bring the history of the Industrial Revolution to life. 

Love the things to do in Telford for Families? Make it your home today and contact our team to find out more 

If you’re looking for a home that offers more than a residence, The Woodlands is waiting for you. Experience the peace of mind that comes from living within a managed community, the safety and serenity of quiet, winding streets and the convenience of being perfectly connected to the wider region.  

Make it your home today. Contact us to find out more about our available plots at The Woodlands. 

The post Living in Telford: Why it’s a fantastic place for families appeared first on Motion Homes.

Utilising three decades in the affordable housing sector, the business is now on a mission to put innovation, sustainability, and community into the private homes sector. 

Matt Moore, CEO at Morro Partnerships and Motion Homes, said: “Our vision for Motion Homes isn’t to just be another developer; we want to stand out in the market by building homes with a long-term view, driven by our own Innovation Hub, which tests new technologies and ensures homes are cost-effective to run for homeowners.  

“We strongly believe in building communities, not just houses, and are committed to delivering the same high level of social value we bring to our Morro developments.” 

The first new development from Motion Homes, The Woodlands, located in Lightmoor Village in Telford, is currently under construction. It will consist of 145 thoughtfully designed homes set in a peaceful, rural setting, with a show home already available to view on site. The development is surrounded by parks, open spaces, a primary school, nursery and retail shops.   

Matt added: “We are so excited to be revealing our new brand alongside our first open market development. This is the third phase of a historic project where Morro has already delivered 57 homes. Having been well integrated into the area for a few years, we feel The Woodlands is the perfect place to begin this next chapter. 

“Motion will leverage the reputation, experience and specialisms Morro has achieved in the regeneration and affordable sector and bring this into the private market. The name ‘Motion’ is a reference to growth, diversification and progression, which is exactly what this means for our business.” 

Motion Homes will primarily target first-time buyers, with a focus predominantly on popular two and three-bedroom houses. Plans are also in place to offer assisted purchase schemes to make homes more accessible. 

To further align with its core values at Morro Partnerships on every development, priority is also being given to maximising positive impact on local communities and driving social value across all areas. 

Key initiatives have so far included donations from Morro show homes (valued at £9,000) to three local causes; Lightmoor Primary School, ABC Nursery, and a local Youth Hub Centre, to promote reusability and support important organisations. To enhance local connections and positive engagement, pupils have been invited for a site tour and designed posters for the construction hoarding to make their mark on the new community. 

Collaborations are also underway with Telford College and Shrewsbury College to provide work experience opportunities for T-Level candidates and other students, including neurodivergent individuals.  

Abdul Mozzamdar, social value lead at Morro Partnerships and Motion Homes, said: “These initiatives are not one-offs but are part of a broader, long-term social value plan that demonstrates our commitment to communities. We are proud to continue delivering the same high level of social value under the Motion Homes brand and look forward to expanding our positive impact.” 

To find out more about our developments, contact us.

The post Morro Partnerships unveils Motion Homes: A new brand for next-generation housebuilding appeared first on Motion Homes.