Table of Contents
Top Reasons to Invest in New Build Developments in Preston
Investors can tap into local life whilst enjoying the urban benefits of Preston’s rapidly growing infrastructure.
Economic Growth and Job Opportunities
We’ve been watching Preston’s economy closely, and it’s really on the up. The City Deal has brought in a wave of investment—over £430 million so far, which is no small feat for a city this size.
That’s thousands of new jobs being created, especially in healthcare and education. Think about it: with the Royal Preston Hospital and the University of Central Lancashire expanding, we’ve got a steady stream of professionals and students who need quality housing nearby.
And it’s not just any housing; they’re looking for places with easy commuter access and modern living standards, like those popping up in Cottam and Lea. As an investor, this is huge because high demand often means low vacancy rates and a steady income stream.
Population Growth and Housing Demand
The population increase in Preston cannot be overlooked. People migrating here for business, education, and a higher quality of life drive this average 1.3% annual rise rather than any random trend. Long-term tenants, in particular, are drawn to neighbourhoods like Fulwood because of the outstanding schools nearby. Just an hour’s drive from the Lake District, Preston appeals to renters who value weekend getaways and nature access.
Source: Office For National Statistics
If you’re eyeing a property in Preston, look at areas with solid educational options and green spaces; it’s what families love, and it’s what keeps rental demand high. Developments near primary and secondary schools or close to parks like Cuerden Valley Park and Ribble Valley have an almost guaranteed appeal, not just now but for years to come.
Families are drawn to Preston for its proximity to high schools, primary schools, and top-notch leisure centres, ensuring a vibrant and fulfilling lifestyle for residents.
Regeneration and Development Initiatives
Preston’s been putting a lot into its regeneration, and it’s paying off. Some major improvements, like the renovation of the Harris Museum and the addition of new canal-side walks, have made the Preston city centre very lively. These changes aren’t just for looks; they’re also meant to raise property values, and they’re working.
Preston’s bustling city atmosphere combines economic growth with a lively social scene, drawing a steady influx of renters. The nearby historic Leyland test track redevelopment enhances the area’s appeal with new housing and commercial spaces, contributing to local growth.
Places like Fishergate and Ashton-on-Ribble, which used to be quieter, are now hotspots where prices are rising by about 5% each year. Investing here means you’re not just buying a property—you’re buying into a city that’s transforming, and that’s powerful for long-term growth.
Preston, Lancashire, is a thriving hub that combines modern urban living with cultural richness and excellent connectivity. The Harris Museum and Art Gallery, located in the city centre, offers a glimpse into local history and art, making it a key attraction just 10 minutes from many of the city’s popular neighbourhoods.
Low Maintenance and High Energy Efficiency
One feature about new constructions that appeals to me? Built to the most recent energy standards and minimum maintenance, Many of these Preston developments have outstanding energy ratings; consider modern insulation, double-glazed windows, and energy-efficient equipment.
It’s the kind of detail that attracts tenants who are savvy about their utility bills and looking for low-carbon options. I’ve found that homes with high Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings can even command higher rents because they appeal to those wanting to keep costs down without sacrificing comfort. Plus, as a landlord, fewer repairs mean lower costs, which adds up to a better bottom line.
Strong Rental Yields and Capital Growth Potential
If you’re looking at rental yields, Preston’s got some of the highest in the region, especially for new builds nearby Preston city centre. Average yields are sitting around 6-8%, and in some areas, you might even see higher.
Places close to amenities like Centurion Park or excellent transport links and primary and secondary schools into Manchester are always popular, and that steady tenant demand means you’re not just looking at strong rents—you’re also looking at capital growth potential.
With excellent commuter links, Preston is ideal for professionals who need quick access to Manchester, Liverpool, and beyond. I’ve seen property values here increase 4-5% per year in recent times, which is fantastic if you’re holding for the long term. It’s a great mix of income now and appreciation down the line.
For commuters, Preston train station provides seamless connections to Manchester City Centre and beyond, with Manchester just 20 minutes away by train. Proximity to the Lake District and Manchester Airport further enhances its appeal, making it a perfect location for professionals and families alike.
Featured New Build Properties Around Preston For Your Investment
Developments near Preston’s local centre provide easy access to shops, dining, and community hubs, enhancing tenant convenience. Properties near Preston Centre attract renters seeking vibrant city living with proximity to schools, healthcare, and entertainment.
Local developments often feature amenities like car parks, ensuring convenience for residents. Many properties offer part exchange schemes, making upgrading to your dream home a hassle-free experience. The city’s vibrant shopping centres and easy access to Edge Hill further position Preston as a desirable place to live and invest.
Here are some expert-recommended new-build properties that promise strong rental yields and high tenant demand:
Preston's Guildhall Gardens
Nestled in the prestigious Winckley Square Conservation area, Guildhall Gardens is poised to become a standout new development in Preston’s lively city centre. The economic growth in Lancashire and the ongoing revitalisation of Preston make this area perfect for renting to people who like a mix of old-fashioned charm and modern ease.
Guildhall Gardens is great for professionals and couples who want to live in the centre of the city but don’t want to be too close to the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) or the lively shops and restaurants at Fishergate Shopping Centre.
Key Property Highlights
£766 pcm
20%
Q3 2023
£2,500
- Located in Winckley Square, one of Preston’s historic and affluent areas
- Features 32 one-bedroom homes and 3 two-bedroom apartments with stylish, contemporary interiors
- Satisfies Preston’s growing demand for premium rental properties in the city centre
- Short walk to UCLan, Market Hall, and Fishergate Shopping Centre
- Ideal property for investors, with Preston’s rental market on the rise
- 0.5 miles from Preston Train Station, 0.2 miles from Miller Arcade, and 1 mile from Avenham Park
Angel Gardens
A sustainable-focused development in Liverpool’s regeneration zone, Angel Gardens offers eco-friendly living just a 30-minute drive from Preston.
With green roofs, sustainable materials, and spacious apartments, this property caters to young professionals, students, and executives who value an environmentally conscious lifestyle. Its prime location near Liverpool’s Knowledge Quarter makes Angel Gardens suitable for both short- and long-term rental strategies.
Key Property Highlights
10% NET
£1,540 pcm
Q4 2026
£5,000
- Includes green roofs, sustainable construction materials, and energy-efficient technologies.
- Spacious one- and two bedroom apartments, greater than Liverpool’s typical unit size, with private balconies
- Up to 10% NET returns, with initial deposits beginning at £20,000.
- Nearby regeneration areas include Liverpool Waters, Knowledge Quarter, and Project Jennifer.
- Approved flexible rental strategies that appeal to both business and leisure renters.
- It’s 0.7 miles from Liverpool Lime Street Station, 0.5 miles from John Moores University, and 1 mile from Liverpool One.
Berkeley Square
Berkeley Square is a popular development in Manchester that is only 35 miles from Preston. It’s popular with workers, students, and families. Its central location, and closeness to Deansgate and other cultural hotspots, make it a choice among people who want to live a lively city life. Berkeley Square has large, well-kept flats that are great for short-term rentals for people in Manchester who are always on the go.
Key Property Highlights
£1,065 pcm
25%
Q2 - Q4 2026
£5,000
- A 30-minute drive from Preston
- High-quality finishes, spacious layouts, and communal lounge areas
- Located near business and cultural centres, ensuring strong rental demand
- Close to Deansgate, Manchester Piccadilly, and major shopping areas
- Manchester’s booming economy ensures steady rental demand
- 1 mile from Deansgate, 0.8 miles from Manchester Art Gallery, 0.5 miles from Spinningfields
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Sovereign Point
Offering luxury waterfront living, Sovereign Point is perfect for professionals and sports enthusiasts drawn to Liverpool’s dynamic lifestyle. This new building is only 30 minutes from Preston and has high-end apartments with views of the River Mersey and landscaped common areas. Since it’s close to culture centers, sports venues and outstanding schools, it attracts a wide range of tenants, from business people to sports fans.
Key Property Highlights
£839 pcm
10%
Q3 2025
£5,000
- 30 minutes from Lancashire, ideal for Preston investors
- High-end studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments with River Mersey views
- Landscaped gardens and communal areas for relaxation
- Close to Albert Dock and the new Everton Stadium, attracting professionals and sports fans alike
- 1 mile from Albert Dock, 1.2 miles from Everton Stadium, 0.8 miles from Tate Liverpool
Dockside Residences
Only 38 miles from Preston, Dockside Residences brings eco-friendly, stylish apartments to Liverpool’s scenic harbour. Near Liverpool’s main cultural attractions, this responsibly built complex attracts tenants who share environmental consciousness. Both short- and long-term rentals benefit from it, hence it’s a flexible option for investors.
Key Property Highlights
£1,250 pcm
30% - 70%
250 Years
£5,000
- All-electric design with BREEAM certification and energy-efficient lighting
- Stunning views of the Mersey River, near popular dockland attractions
- Features 48 two-bedroom apartments with sustainable features, including renewable energy sources
- Approved for short-term rentals, catering to business travellers and tourists
- Walking distance to Albert Dock, Tate Gallery, and Liverpool One shopping district
- 0.5 miles from Royal Albert Dock, 0.7 miles from the Museum of Liverpool, 0.9 miles from the Echo Arena
Paragon House
Paragon House, located on Seymour Grove in Trafford, offers high-end living just 30 minutes from Preston. Professionals looking for quiet and contemporary comforts will find appeal in this complex with gated entry, digital concierge, and landscaped gardens. Investors seeking high-end rents choose it mostly because of its close proximity to Old Trafford and the cultural appeal of Manchester.
Key Property Highlights
£1,183 pcm
10%
£1,000
- A 30-minute drive from Preston, ideal for Lancashire investors
- 115 spacious apartments with modern layouts, open-plan design, and sliding doors
- Community-focused with digital concierge, gated access, landscaped gardens, and social lounges
- Walking distance to Old Trafford and Trafford Bar tram stop
- Positioned in Trafford’s master plan area, with promising growth for investors
- 0.5 miles from Old Trafford, 0.3 miles from Trafford Bar tram stop, 1.5 miles from Salford Quays
Trafford Gardens
Positioned 35 miles from Preston in Manchester’s Civic Quarter, Trafford Gardens is perfect for young professionals. This property presents 116 chic flats with their own balconies, therefore combining modern living with convenience. Its proximity to economic and cultural hubs makes it perfect for renters looking for a central site with first-rate facilities.
Key Property Highlights
£1,300 pcm
250 Years
Q3 2025
£2,000
- A 30-minute drive from Preston, convenient for local investors
- Premium one, two, three and 4 bedroom apartments with high-end features
- Located in a high-growth area, enhancing long-term investment value
- 300 metres from Trafford Bar tram stop, linking to the city centre
- Close to essential amenities, dining options, and business hubs
- 0.2 miles from Trafford Bar tram stop, 1 mile from Old Trafford, 0.7 miles from MediaCityUK
Meadow Mill, Stockport
Located in Stockport, just 42 miles from Preston, Meadow Mill is a stylish development offering a blend of history and modernity. It’s perfect for those who wish to serve Manchester’s working population, students, and families—a busy community. Meadow Mill’s distinctive location and offerings make it an excellent spot for both long-term and short-term rentals.
Key Property Highlights
£760 pcm
7.6%
- 42 miles from Preston, easy access to Manchester’s bustling population
- Converted historic building offering unique character alongside modern comforts
- High-quality finishes with spacious interiors and plenty of natural light
- Close proximity to Stockport town centre, ensuring strong tenant demand
- Short distance to key Stockport landmarks, shopping, and dining areas
What are the Best Areas for New Build Investments in Preston?
The charming Longridge market town, close to Preston, adds a desirable rural touch to city investments. Preston offers the best of both worlds, blending modern amenities with nearby rural living for those seeking a quieter lifestyle. For those looking for a rural lifestyle, Preston’s surrounding areas offer scenic landscapes and a relaxed pace.
Cottam
Cottam has truly grown, and it makes perfect sense why Preston’s new build ranks well. Although it has a quiet suburban vibe, it also puts you close to Preston city centre, which makes it a fantastic option for both young people and families. Tenants near the Lancaster Canal can take picturesque walks straight from their front door.
Developments like Cottam Gardens bring that modern touch people are after—think energy-efficient homes with great layouts that feel both comfortable and stylish. Cottam is one of those places that manages to offer a bit of everything, and that’s exactly why it stays in high demand.
Fulwood
Fulwood has long been a favourite, especially for families. It’s got a relaxed vibe with green open space like Moor Park, where tenants can easily spend a day outdoors without leaving the neighbourhood. The area also benefits from a strong community feel, which keeps tenants renting long-term.
New builds here often have spacious layouts, perfect for those wanting a bit more room. Fulwood’s reputation for quality of life, combined with amenities and nearby primary schools and secondary schools
, makes it one of those stable, go-to areas for investors who are looking for steady tenants.
Lea
Lea has quickly become popular, especially for professionals who need easy access to places like the Royal Preston Hospital. It’s a bit quieter than the centre part of the city, but it doesn’t feel isolated; it’s still close enough to the action. Lea’s got the Lancaster Canal nearby, which adds a nice touch with its peaceful walking paths.
New developments like Kingfisher Place have brought modern new home to the area, complete with energy-efficient features that are popular with eco-conscious tenants. Lea hits that sweet spot between suburban comfort and convenience, making it a solid choice for investors looking for long-term appeal.
Bamber Bridge
For anyone looking to cater to families, Bamber Bridge is an ideal spot. It has that quiet, residential atmosphere but still has plenty to offer, with Cuerden Valley Park nearby providing lots of green space for outings. Brindle Park is one of the standout developments here, with spacious new homes that fit perfectly into the friendly vibe of the area.
With quick access to the motorway, it’s convenient for commuters too, which adds to its appeal. Bamber Bridge tends to attract long-term renters, so if you’re after a steady, reliable rental income, it’s definitely worth considering.
Ashton-on-Ribble
Ashton-on-Ribble is a unique mix of history and modern convenience, which gives it a lot of charm. Located just west of the Preston city centre, it’s close enough for easy access but still feels like its own neighbourhood. The nearby Preston Docklands has been revitalised in recent years, bringing more life to the area, and landmarks like the Ribble Steam Railway add a touch of character.
New builds here usually feature open layouts and energy-efficient designs, which appeal to young professionals and students. Ashton-on-Ribble is a solid investment spot, offering both affordable property prices and great rental yield potential as the area continues to develop.
New Build Homes vs. Older Properties: What’s Right for You?
Financial Advantages
New builds have some clear financial perks that make them appealing, especially when it comes to maintenance and energy savings. With a new property, there’s a lot less to worry about in terms of repairs—most things are under warranty, which is a real stress reliever.
A major benefit is also designs that use less energy helping renters save money on power bills. Older homes may initially look less expensive, but since they require more repairs and changes to be up to code, they typically wind up costing more over time.
Investors benefit from competitive estate agent fees in Preston, maximising rental returns and costs. New builds are clearly better for investors who want to know exactly how much they will cost and have fewer problems with repairs.
Tenant Demand and Marketability
Tenant demand is where new builds often shine. Today’s renters are looking for low-maintenance, modern spaces that make life easier, and new builds are built with this in mind. Open kitchens, energy-efficient tools, and useful layouts are all popular features. That is especially true in places like Preston where long-term long and young workers are looking for places to rent.
Some older homes are cuter than newer ones, but they need more upkeep, which can turn off renters who want to be close to everything. Today’s renters have certain standards, so new buildings are more likely to stay rented and get good tenants.
Future Maintenance and Value Retention
Maintenance can be a huge consideration when investing in property, and new builds have a clear edge here. Built to modern standards, they typically require fewer repairs, and many come with warranties covering major purchases, allowing investors to avoid unexpected spending in the first few years.
Older housing, while sometimes full of character, typically requires constant maintenance, which may add up quickly. New constructions also have a high rate of value retention over time, especially in high-demand areas, making them suitable for investors seeking long-term prosperity.
They offer a solid solution for people looking to avoid the ongoing maintenance that sometimes comes with older family homes.
Conclusion
Investing in new buildings near Preston is a fantastic concept since they provide a blend of modern services, strong tenant demand, and consistent long-term development.
Preston’s high rental returns and significant capital growth potential help to explain why his property market is performing rather well. This is due to the city’s growing economy and steady population growth.
In places like Cottam, Fulwood, and Ashton-on-Ribble, there are many new developments that meet the needs of a wide range of renters, from families and workers to people who care about the environment.
New builds are a simple, high-potential choice for investors who want low maintenance and strong value retention in a city and area that is clearly on the rise.
Area Guide
Ricky Ellson
Firstly and foremost, I have been a dedicated senior advisor for many years (not to give away my age!
My strong work ethic has provided a solid track record of successfully building portfolios for many clients.
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