What a ‘Grand’ Service!

Explore Living, Grand Ocean, Saltdean

It was an easy drive along the coastal road into Saltdean with a lively atmosphere from Brighton morphing into relaxed community spirit.  Many childhood memories came flooding back as I drove through Rottingdean which helped me to find Grand Ocean.  I didn’t see any signs coming from the west, but after a back track, I managed to locate the site.  Parking was provided next to the sales office alongside the landscaped gardens and a water feature to my right.

I walked up the wooden stairs to the sales office to be greeted by a knowledgeable and helpful sales consultant. I was lost for words with the technology Explore Living installed for visitors to grasp an understanding of the large site, which is still under construction.  A large plasma screen mounted on the wall and scale model were wired to a touch screen system which enabled you to view the whole development at a fingers touch.

After being qualified, I was taken to see the two show-homes available.  The sales consultant guided me along a corridor where framed photos hung with pictures dating back to when the Grade two listed building was a Butlin’s holiday hotel.  This building was first opened in 1938, used during the war as a Fire Service College and later bought by Billy Butlin in 1953.  At present, there are four new buildings under construction to the back of the old Grand Ocean Hotel, however this part of the complex is not being altered externally apart from small alterations to the roof.  Internally the building is being revamped and renovated to bring the building up to modern requirements and will include a foyer desk where a manager will be available.

Unfortunately due to the seriously heavy rains and high winds, leaks had occurred which meant I was unable to see the temporary apartments (for show purposes only) in all their glory, however I’ll  be sure to return as I was able to see their potential shine through the gloomy weather.  Large doors were used throughout and these instantly gave me a sense of space and openness.  My preference lay with the two bedroom apartment as the layout allowed for more movement. 

The lounge was of a good size which comes off the open plan kitchen.  As is standard with most new developments, the kitchen comes with a fridge, freezer, oven, microwave and a very modern touch screen stove.  A feature that I was not keen on was the “concealed” plug sockets which I believe would collect dirt easily and had potential for the mechanism to break.  Space however would not be a problem with large cupboards and large worktop area.

The master bedroom was well-sized with fitted wardrobes to fit all the clothes bought from Brighton & Hove’s expansive choice of shops.  The bathroom and en-suite are a favourable size to soak and immerse yourself after a day of work, golf, swim or walk.

With 999 years’ leasehold, estimated charges of £785 for one bedroom apartments, and £1,056 for two beds apartments.

What you get for your money:
Prices from £199,995

Location, location, location:
Saltdean Lido swimming pool, Brighton Marina 3 miles away offering restaurants, bars, shopping and other entertainment facilities, Brighton around 6 miles away and with the “Car Club” made available for occupants; it will be easy to travel and reach destinations.

Best feature:
Under floor heating, concrete floors to offer sound-proofing, all homes pre-wired for Sky, high definition television and for wall mounted flat screen television in the lounge, built in security and community facility available in the Hotel apartments.

Worst feature:
Could there be possible future problems with the Hotel Apartments located in the Grade 2 listed building?

Contact the sales office: 0845- 873 9054

• Location:      7 of 10 (Easy access by roads and to amenities)
• Product:       8 of 10
• Sales Negotiator service: 9 of 10 (went through specs and very knowledgeable)
• Value for money:             Good for commuters