2010-12-31-莱坊-Hindhead_Tunnel_2011_4页_975kb

报告摘要

HINDHEAD TUNNEL: SUMMARY

Overview

The HINDHEAD TUNNEL, set to open in July 2011, is a major infrastructure project aimed at improving journey times, property demand, and investment in Hampshire and West Sussex. It is part of a £371m highway scheme designed to alleviate congestion on the A3, a critical route between London and Portsmouth. The tunnel, which is 6.5km long, includes a 1.8km twin-bore tunnel and is recognized as the longest non-estuarial tunnel in the UK. It also won an award for being "the best of its type in the world" at the New Civil Engineer International Tunnelling Awards in 2010.

Impact on Journey Times

The tunnel is expected to reduce northbound journey times on the A3 by 20 minutes on average during peak hours.
Peak-time congestion previously added 25 minutes to travel times through the Hindhead area.
This improvement is anticipated to expand the catchment area for potential buyers seeking a 30-minute drive to London and other urban centers.

Impact on Property Demand and Values

The reduced journey times will increase the desirability of areas south of Hindhead.
Knight Frank anticipates a significant boost in property demand and values in these regions, with potential increases of up to 5% in some locations.
Property values have already shown strong growth since 2002, indicating buyers’ anticipation of the tunnel's benefits.
The tunnel is expected to bridge the property price gap between West Sussex and Surrey, with areas like Haslemere and Petersfield becoming increasingly attractive.

Areas Set to Benefit

The following areas are expected to experience improved accessibility and increased property demand:

Hindhead
Grayshott
Headley
Liphook
Petersfield
Hambledon
Hawkley
Froxfield
East and West Meon

These areas are close to the South Downs National Park and the south coast, offering natural beauty and high-quality schools, which further enhance their appeal.

Examples of Property Activity

Properties in Cocking and West Burton have been sold to London-based buyers and those moving from Guildford, respectively, due to anticipation of the tunnel's opening.
Reeds Farm, a luxury property in Empshott, has attracted interest due to the tunnel and its 80 acres of land and amenities.

Insights from Knight Frank Offices

From the Winchester Office

The area between the M3 and the A3, west of Petersfield, is becoming more attractive due to the tunnel.
Hambledon, Hawkley, Froxfield, and East and West Meon are already popular, but the tunnel is expected to increase their appeal.
Sailing enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a coastal lifestyle are likely to be drawn to the area.

From the Guildford Office

Nigel Mitchell, Office Head, has first-hand experience of the congestion issues.
Around 50% of the buyers from the Guildford office commute northwards, including to London.
The tunnel is enabling buyers to consider areas south of Hindhead, such as Grayshott and Headley, which offer country properties and good schools.
Haslemere is already seen as a mini Guildford, and Petersfield is expected to follow suit.

Conclusion

The opening of the HINDHEAD TUNNEL in July 2011 is set to transform the real estate landscape in Hampshire and West Sussex by reducing journey times, increasing property demand, and raising values. The project is well-received by both residential agents and buyers, and is expected to attract more investment and residential interest in the south of Hindhead. The improved transport links are a key factor in the desirability of the region, and the new office in Haslemere reflects Knight Frank's confidence in the area's future growth.