Tower to the people in Elephant and Castle

First-time buyers will get the chance to live in Britain’s most glamorous residential tower when 89 low-cost homes go on sale at 42-storey Strata next month. Eight floors of the Elephant and Castle tower will contain shared-ownership apartments with prices from just £60,000.

The landmark tower - topped with huge wind turbines - will include the highest penthouses in Europe. Lower down, from floors two to 10, and in a neighbouring annexe, smart Esprit apartments, due for completion by early summer, will be aimed at first-time buyers and will be sold by Family Mosaic, a housing association.

A quarter share of an Esprit apartment costs £60,000, with new owners renting the remainder. First-time buyers living or working in Southwark borough, with incomes under £60,000 a year, will get priority.

Buyers will be rubbing shoulders with owners of more expensive apartments on the upper floors but internal specifications will be similar. Most of the full-priced flats, selling at up to £2 million, were snapped up off-plan nearly two years ago.

With its turbines and chequer-board façade, Strata has become one of the capital’s most conspicuous buildings. All flat owners enter through an imposing double-height, hotel-style entrance lobby. There is a 24-hour concierge service and underground parking.

The Esprit flats have smart, contemporary design and are space-efficient. To register interest, visit www.espritapartments.com or call 020 7089 1315.

Strata is the most dashing new development to date in the 170-acre Elephant and Castle regeneration zone which will see the demolition of the garish pink shopping centre.

Houses and flats for sale in Elephant and Castle
Houses and flats to rent in Elephant and Castle