High Wycombe is one of the top five happiest places to live in the South East.

An analysis of factors which contribute to quality of life makes good reading for Wycombians who spent lockdown wondering if the grass could be greener elsewhere.

According to the results of an investigation by property website Rightmove, Wycombe has a lot going for it.

Community spirit, friendly natives, excellent transport connections, fantastic countryside with the Chilterns area of outstanding natural beauty on the doorstep - all these advantages helped to propel the town to the top of the regional ratings compiled by Rightmove following a national survey of 22,000 people.

The happiness quotient also reflected locals’ opinion of schools in the area and other essential amenities including sports and entertainment facilities, medical services and the range of shops and services in the town centre.

Tonbridge in Kent topped the South East ratings, then came Guildford, then Winchester, Wycombe was fourth followed by Brighton. Vicki Noon, sales and marketing director at Inland Homes, said: “With the new found appreciation for what’s on our doorstep, it is no surprise High Wycombe has been rated so highly for residents’ happiness.”

Rightmove’s marketing initiative to celebrate the house market being back on track couldn’t be better timed for the Beaconsfield-based housebuilder.

This weekend, Inland is opening a designer furnished two bedroom show home at Centre Square, the gated development of one and two bedroom flats on the western side of Wycombe town centre.

The block includes underground parking and a landscaped garden for residents. Prices start at £227,500.

Call the sales team on 01494 211049 for an appointment to view. After this weekend, the flat will be open from 10am-5pm each day, but you will need a time slot to visit due to current restrictions.

Other new development underway in Bucks include:

  • Abbey Barn Park, Abbey Barn Lane, High Wycombe
    Developer: Berkeley Homes
    One – five beds
    Prices from £245,000 for a one-bed
     
  • Wickfields, Longwick, two miles from Princes Risborough
    Developer: Bellway
    One bedroom flats plus 2,3,4 and 5-bed houses
    Prices: Four bed houses from around £525,000
     
  • Orchard Green, Kingsbook, Aylesbury
    Developer: Barratt
    Three bed houses from £349,995
    Four beds from £465,000
     
  • Steeple View, Steeple Claydon
    Developer Kier Living
    Two bed semi for £299,999 with option of 95 per cent mortgage (deposit: £14,995)
    Four-bed semi with garage: £415,000 (no stamp duty if sale is completed before end of June as announced in Budget)