SUCCESSFUL LAUNCH OF STUNNING SAFFRON WALDEN HOMES AT FORMER FRIENDS’ SCHOOL

With a history dating back to 1879, the former Friends’ School in Saffron Walden is being sensitively reimagined into a new residential development by Chase New Homes. The striking, red-brick Victorian facades will be joined by complementary new-build apartments and houses, maintaining the site’s historic legacy whilst creating an environment for 21^st century living. Recently launched, The Waldens creates an exciting new opportunity for those looking for a new home in the picturesque Essex town.

Seamlessly blending old with new, The Waldens will provide a stunning collection of 96 homes ranging from one to four-bedrooms. At the centre of the development, the Old School House is being transformed into 52 contemporary apartments, many of which will benefit from retained high ceilings and impressive windows. The vaulted ceiling and exposed beams of the school’s oak-panelled dining hall will be maintained in an exclusive residents’ lounge, providing additional space to relax and socialise. The Croydon Building is also being sympathetically restored, hosting a selection of one and two-bedroom apartments.

The remaining homes are being carefully designed to capture a sense of the school’s rich history. The mix of new-build apartments and houses will demonstrate the same level of exceptional finishes and luxurious specification as those in the converted buildings. All homes will blend sustainability with modern classic shaker-style kitchens, designed by Leicht, the first carbon neutral kitchen manufacturer.  Kitchens will also feature sleek Caesarstone quartz worktops and an assortment of high-quality Bosch appliances.

Completing the development, the beautiful grounds are being enhanced for the benefit of the new community. Dating back to 1825, the ornate wrought iron gates will be retained, along with an avenue of lime trees. New tennis courts and a multi-use games area are being incorporated, while a range of wildlife has been catered for with the inclusion of a nature-enhancing pond, diverse planting, and bat boxes.

Paul Bennett, Sales and Marketing Director at Chase New Homes, comments: “For over one hundred years, the Friends’ School played an important role in the Saffron Walden community. Following the school’s closure in 2017, we hope our sympathetic conversion will allow the site to continue to be a cornerstone of the community for many years to come. Offering a range of apartment and house types to suit a variety of homeowners, we were delighted to welcome 80 viewings at The Waldens across our launch weekend, inviting prospective buyers to explore a development brimming with heritage, charm, and sophistication.”

Grant Ward, Director at Elevation Estate Agents, comments: “We are thrilled to announce the successful launch of our latest development, The Waldens. Having worked with multiple house builders across numerous new-build sites for over 30 years, we have been truly impressed by the exceptional quality and attention to detail showcased by Chase New Homes on this project. From the thoughtfully designed sales suite to the interactive 3D model, every aspect of this development reflects their dedication to excellence.”

“The Waldens is more than just a development—it’s a carefully planned community. The level of interest so far has exceeded all expectations, with over 80 potential buyers attending the launch weekend. The enthusiastic response has already resulted in multiple reservations and ongoing positive conversations with prospective buyers. We look forward to welcoming new homeowners to The Waldens and seeing this vibrant community take shape.”

Just 15 miles south of Cambridge, the historic town of Saffron Walden hosts a bustling community. On Saturdays the Market Square comes to life with a busy bunch of traders offering everything from fresh foods to artisan gifts. Nearby, a stroll down ancient lanes reveals a treasure trove of independent boutiques and popular high-street stores. Saffron Walden hosts a range of eateries, cafes, and pubs to tantalise the tastebuds, from brunch at The Goat & Grass to sweet treats at Molly’s Coffee and Cake Shop.

For families looking for a home near exceptional schools, The Waldens is ideally placed to offer a choice of state and independent options nearby. For younger children, Bell Day Nursery and St Thomas More Catholic Primary School can both be reached in around 5 minutes on foot. Committed to being ‘a local school of exceptional quality’, older children can attend Saffron Walden County High School, just a fourteen-minute walk away.

With Saffron Walden taking its name from the saffron crocus that flowers in north-west Essex, it comes as no surprise that The Waldens are surrounded by abundant greenery. With the town encircled by open countryside, buyers at The Waldens can easily embark on tranquil walks immersed in nature. Just an eight-minute cycle away, The Common offers plenty of green space to unwind in, and is also home to one of Saffron Walden’s four mazes. For those with fitness goals to achieve, Saffron Walden’s wide range of activities, clubs and societies – from football and cricket clubs to fishing lakes and gyms – residents are spoilt for choice.

Whether commuting to London, looking to explore Cambridge or heading to the airport for adventures further afield, The Waldens is well positioned for access to a variety of travel options. Audley End Station is just a six-minute drive away, offering direct services to London Liverpool Street in just 56 minutes, and to Stanstead Airport in as little as 17 minutes.  For those preferring to travel by car, the M11 easily connects destinations towards London, while Cambridge is reachable in less than 30 minutes.

The Waldens is now open Thursday to Monday from 10am for viewings. Prices start from £549,995 for the Ash 3 bed house type. For further information, please visit https://chasenewhomes.co.uk/development/saffron-walden/.