Robert and Jane Locke have become the very first residents to move into Welborne Garden Village, a sustainable community under construction in Hampshire between the South Downs and the Hampshire coast.
Mr Locke, a former solicitor, and Mrs Locke, a retired primary school teacher, have described their new home as the perfect place to enjoy their retirement.
Mrs Locke said: “We have lived in homes that needed a lot of work to make them enjoyable, so the idea of moving into a brand-new home that was ready for us was very appealing.
“Welborne has been on our radar for years, and we could not wait to be part of something so special.”
Robert and Jane Locke have become the first residents to move into Welborne Garden Village. (Image: Welborne)
The couple have been following the Welborne project for nearly 20 years and were quick to reserve one of the first Thakeham-built homes.
Their new property is just two miles from their previous home in Fareham.
Mr Locke said: “We were attracted by the plans for a beautiful village centre and the Georgian-style architecture.
“Being the first residents here feels like a privilege. We are excited to see the community grow and to play a part in shaping it.”
They have already noticed a difference in the energy efficiency of their new home.
Mr Locke said: “We have already noticed how much more energy efficient the house is compared to our previous properties.
“It has been a smooth transition, and moving in was far easier than we expected.”
Mrs Locke added: “We love the green spaces and the thought that has gone into the design of the village.
“It feels like the perfect place to enjoy our retirement, with everything we need close by.”
Mark Thistlethwayte, chairman of Buckland Group, which is leading the development, said: “It is a real pleasure to welcome Robert and Jane as our first residents.
“Their arrival marks an exciting new chapter, and we are delighted to see Welborne come to life with people at its heart, calling Welborne their home.”

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