Docklands News

Approximately 1.8m fixed-rate mortgage deals will end this year, causing concern for many homeowners. Those who secured deals in 2021 are likely to face increased costs, while some recent fixers may see lower bills. Current mortgage rates vary, with the best deals below 4%. Nicholas Mendes, head of marketing at John Charcol brokers, noted: "It isn't the case that absolutely everyone coming off a five-year fix is seeing a dramatic jump in their monthly payments." Homeowners are advised to compare lenders and secure rates early to avoid higher standard variable rates. 

The I (17/01/2026)  

First-time buyer affordability has improved, but many still rely on family help for deposits. Data from Nationwide shows house prices rose just 0.6% in 2025, while wages increased faster and mortgage rates fell, easing repayment pressures. The typical first-time buyer now spends about 32% of take-home pay on their mortgage, down from 38% in 2022, and the house price-to-earnings ratio has dropped to 4.7 - its lowest since 2013. First-time buyers accounted for nearly 55% of transactions last year, the highest share on record. However, saving a deposit remains difficult: building a 10% deposit can take six years on average, and far longer in London or the southeast. As a result, Nationwide estimates more than a third of first-time buyers still depend on the "Bank of Mum and Dad" to get onto the property ladder. 

City AM (20/01/2026)   Financial Times (20/01/2026)   The Times (20/01/2026)  

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) predicts the UK economy will grow slower than the average of advanced economies over the next two years. The IMF's World Economic Outlook report maintains UK growth estimates at 1.3% for 2026 and 1.5% for 2027, below the 1.8% and 1.7% expected for advanced economies. The Chancellor claimed the IMF report shows the UK is on track to be the fastest growing European G7 economy, but her shadow Mel Stride accused Rachel Reeves of "gaslighting the country" arguing the forecasts indicate the UK economy was flatlining. 

City AM (20/01/2026)  

Property developer Ballymore has received planning approval for a major regeneration scheme in Newham, east London, featuring 1,685 new homes. The Thames Road site, which borders Thames Barrier Park and Pontoon Dock DLR, will include 173 social rent homes, 359 co-living suites, a primary school, and 13,500 sq m of light industrial and flexible workspace. Designed by Howells, the development will also feature riverside mansion blocks, townhouses, and a park. Ballymore aims to begin construction next year and is awaiting approval for a nearby sister site with 1,667 additional homes.

Architects' Journal (14/01/2026)   Housing Today (14/01/2026)   Property Week (14/01/2026)  

London's housing crisis is worsening, with a reported need for 88,000 new homes annually, yet only 3,248 new private homes and 1,239 affordable homes were started in early 2025. The Government's revised planning policy aims to expedite construction, hindered by Brexit, the pandemic, and rising costs, which have increased by 20% since 2020. Despite a budget package for support, experts suggest that aiding developers with land acquisition and stimulating demand are vital for progress. The mismatch between expected land prices and construction costs continues to inflate new-build prices. Current affordability requirements delay development, with housing associations cutting spending on affordable homes. Confidence in the market is crucial for future growth, highlighting the pressing need for affordable housing solutions in London. 

The Observer (11/01/2026)  

HMRC has reported an 8% increase in UK home sales for November 2025 compared to November 2024, with around 100,350 transactions taking place, reflecting a 1% rise from October. So far in the financial year, 732,310 sales were recorded, down from 746,220 in the previous year. Experts suggest this surge in November results from earlier sales completion, although market activity was paused due to uncertainties surrounding the budget. Increased mortgage rate cuts and the resolution of some economic uncertainties are expected to stimulate demand going into 2026. However, factors like affordability and borrowing costs may lead to a gradual rather than dramatic increase in market activity. Overall, signs indicate a stabilising market, with a cautious recovery anticipated in the near future. 

Daily Mail (10/01/2026)   The Independent (10/01/2026)   The Standard (10/01/2026)