House prices in South Downs National Park far outstrip rest of West Sussex

According to estate agent Knight Frank the average property price within the national park boundaries in West Sussex and Hampshire is 60 per cent higher than those outside it.

The research shows that the average 2014 house price in the South Downs was £392,148 compared to £244,670, with the price premium even higher in the New Forest, Lake District and Peak District.

Oliver Knight, Knight Frank Residential Research, said: “The high quality of life connected with living in some of the most beautiful and distinctive landscapes in England and Wales is an obvious attraction for many home buyers and our research shows there is a premium for homes located within a national park or an AONB.

“Supply of stock in these areas can often fall short of demand as there are more restrictive planning regimes, and this is one factor underpinning pricing.

“The Surrey Hills was the most expensive AONB or national park in 2014 with an average house price of £568,000.

“Being within easy reach of London and in close proximity to major towns such as Guildford and Epsom, this is a popular commuter location and strong demand on the back of this – especially from London - has underpinned house prices.”

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