The Government’s New Towns shortlist signals a pivotal shift in how housing and placemaking will be delivered in the years ahead.

To unpack the implications, we’re launching a new Market Spotlight series examining each proposed location in depth, starting with Enfield and the potential new town at Crews Hill and Chase Park.

Hertfordshire combines a high-quality suburban lifestyle with fast connectivity to London, supporting strong and sustained rental demand from professionals and families. Population growth has been robust, particularly in Watford and Welwyn Hatfield, while limited delivery of purpose-built rental stock continues to underpin the case for Build to Rent investment. With a growing BTR pipeline, rising investor confidence and strong fundamentals, the county is transitioning from early-stage growth into a more established institutional market.

Birmingham’s population has grown faster than the wider region and is expected to increase by a further 46,000 residents by 2032, driving sustained housing demand. Rising incomes and a large, youthful workforce further strengthen the city’s long-term property market fundamentals.

The Croydon Market Insights and Mystery Shopping Report takes a deep dive into the population and economic growth statistics that are fuelling a thriving rental living sector in London’s most populous borough. A detailed mystery shopping analysis of eight leading rental living schemes in Croydon also provides a valuable benchmark for understanding how the market is performing, highlighting significant opportunities.

Surrey in the Spotlight: Our latest analysis highlights Surrey as the premier commuter hub, celebrated for its natural beauty, dynamic communities, and seamless London connectivity. We spotlight key growth areas: Guildford, Woking, Elmbridge, Reigate and Banstead, and Spelthorne

Kent is emerging as a prime London commuter hotspot, offering rental affordability, rising incomes, and strong transport links—making it one of the South East’s most investable residential markets.

Madrid’s housing market is transforming as supply shortages, shifting demographics, and rising institutional investment drive rapid growth in the rental sector.

Reading is emerging as a prime spot for commuters and property investors, driven by a strong economy and ongoing infrastructure upgrades.

Market Spotlight – Dartford: GAA delivers in-depth data, trends, and insights to guide investors, developers, and local authorities, with coverage of 20+ cities and the ability to create tailored reports for any location.