Docklands News

Concerns are mounting that a slowdown in London's prime property market, driven by recent stamp duty hikes, could spread nationwide. Wealthy buyers are increasingly opting to rent rather than purchase high-end homes to avoid hefty tax bills, with some central London prices being reduced by up to 30% to attract foreign interest. Experts warn this downturn could impact the wider housing market. 

The Mail on Sunday (03/08/2025)  

The UK construction sector has suffered its steepest decline in five years, casting doubt over the government's pledge to build 1.5m homes by the end of this Parliament. Figures from S&P Global Market Intelligence revealed activity plunged from 48.8 to 44.3 in July, signalling sharp contractions in residential and civil engineering projects. Analysts warn the slowdown could deepen economic woes, with firms laying off workers and slashing investments amid weakening demand. 

City AM (07/08/2025)   The Daily Telegraph (07/08/2025)   The Guardian (07/08/2025)   The Times (07/08/2025)  

HMRC has warned home buyers about fraudulent firms offering to reclaim stamp duty on properties needing renovation by falsely classifying them as non-residential. Anthony Burke, HMRC's deputy director, cautioned buyers against allowing agents to make repayment claims on their behalf, saying: "If the claim is inaccurate, you could end up paying more than the amount you were trying to recover." 

Daily Mail (05/08/2025)  

The final apartments in the initial phase of Heron Wharf, formerly known as Poplar Riverside, are now on sale. The first two buildings at the Berkeley Capital development proved a hit with homebuyers, and have been followed by The Millhouse, offering 92 one- and two-bedroom apartments for private sale. The development includes a a 20m swimming pool, along with a spa and a gym. The apartments themselves have views over Heron Wharf park, the river, and towards Canary Wharf, feature an open-plan design, and come with private balconies. “With serene green views, premium wellness facilities and the River Lea on the doorstep, the neighbourhood offers residents a unique blend of tranquillity and city connectivity", commented Luke Tredwell, sales and marketing director at Berkeley Capital. “Heron Wharf continues to evolve into one of London’s most exciting new addresses and The Millhouse is right at its heart". One- and two-bedroom apartments at The Millhouse are expected to complete in May 2026 with prices starting at £460,000. All apartments come with a 999-year lease. 

Wharf Life (25/07/2025)  

Robot bricklayers are set to be deployed on British construction sites to address a significant labour shortage in the house building sector. Developed by Dutch company Monumental, the machines can lay approximately 500 bricks in an eight-hour shift and can work continuously under human supervision. Experts estimate that at least 25,000 additional bricklayers are needed to fulfil the Government's housing targets. Monumental's robots have already been successfully used in the Netherlands for various construction projects. In the UK, they will be tested next month in collaboration with Galostar, a London-based bricklaying contractor.

The Daily Telegraph (26/07/2025)  

Councillors and campaigners have raised concerns that thousands of new homes across England are being built without essential community infrastructure, including playgrounds, shops, schools, and GP surgeries. In some developments, promised facilities are delayed for years or not built at all, leaving families without basic amenities. Local authorities say planning rules often allow developers to prioritise housing, while contributions for community provision can be avoided or delayed. 

The Guardian (28/07/2025)