Why Shoreham-by-Sea is becoming Sussex’s next coastal hotspot for first time buyers 

With its coastal setting, independent high street and fast links to Brighton and London, Shoreham-by-Sea is attracting growing interest from first-time buyers across Sussex. Southern Housing New Homes is helping more people make the move through two Shared Ownership developments in the town: the recently launched Clearwater Collection at Wharf Twenty One and Dock Makers Quarter, which is coming soon. 

Set alongside the River Adur and within the wider regeneration of Shoreham Harbour, the developments bring affordable homes to a location that offers a balance of seaside living, strong transport connections and access to green space. 

Buyer demand at Wharf Twenty One has already highlighted Shoreham’s growing appeal, with Southern Housing seeing strong interest from buyers across Sussex, particularly neighbouring coastal hotspots including Brighton & Hove and Worthing. In fact, 92% of buyers to date are from Sussex, underlining the demand for affordable homeownership opportunities along the South Coast. 

At the forefront of Shoreham’s transformation is Wharf Twenty One, a striking riverside neighbourhood delivering 169 Shared Ownership homes as part of Shoreham Harbour’s ambitious regeneration programme. Once a commercial dockland, the 3.5-acre waterfront site is being reimagined, breathing life into landscaped public areas and opening up access to the waterfront. 

By 2031, Shoreham Harbour is set to become a mixed-use waterfront neighbourhood alongside an enhanced working port that will continue to support the local economy. Wharf Twenty One offers buyers an affordable route into an area undergoing significant change. 

Wharf Twenty One’s design draws on Shoreham’s 20th-century heritage, with art deco influences inspired by local landmarks such as Brighton City Airport. Bright façades, stepped forms and waterside terraces maximise natural light and river views, while landscaping and commercial space help create a practical and well-connected neighbourhood. 

Launching soon nearby, Dock Makers Quarter will deliver a collection of one, two and three bedroom Shared Ownership apartments. Just moments from Shoreham-by-Sea station, the development will offer contemporary homes with private outdoor space, open-plan layouts and modern interiors, all within easy reach of beaches, green spaces and the town centre. 

Jane Williams, Head of Sales at Southern Housing, comments: “Shoreham-by-Sea is becoming an increasingly popular choice for buyers looking for a coastal lifestyle with strong transport links and a real sense of community. Through developments like Wharf Twenty One and Dock Makers Quarter, we’re helping more people access homeownership in an area that may otherwise be out of reach.” 

Shared Ownership allows buyers to purchase a share of a home, usually between 10% and 75%, and pay rent on the remaining share. It can offer a more affordable route onto the property ladder, with lower deposits and monthly costs than buying outright, as well as the option to buy a larger share over time. 

Shoreham-by-Sea continues to appeal to buyers looking for a lifestyle shaped by the outdoors and local culture. Residents can enjoy Shoreham Beach, riverside walks along the River Adur and nearby green spaces including Buckingham Park and the South Downs National Park. The town also has a strong creative scene, with venues such as Ropetackle Arts Centre hosting live music, comedy and community events. 

Shoreham also offers a mix of independent cafés, pubs and restaurants, alongside regular farmers’ and vintage markets that add to its local character. 

Connectivity is another major draw. From Shoreham-by-Sea station, residents can reach Brighton in around 15 minutes, Worthing in under 10 minutes, Gatwick Airport in approximately 40 minutes and London Victoria in just over an hour. The nearby A27 and A259 also provide easy road access across Sussex and along the South Coast. Parking is available with selected homes at Dock Makers Quarter and all homes at Wharf Twenty One. 

Homes at The Clearwater Collection, Wharf Twenty One, are available through Shared Ownership, with prices starting from £67,500 for a 25% share of a one bedroom apartment (full market value: £270,000). Selected homes are available with a 10% share. For more information, visit https://shnewhomes.co.uk/properties/wharf-twenty-one. 

Dock Makers Quarter is launching soon. To register interest, visit https://shnewhomes.co.uk/properties/dock-makers-quarter.

First Time Buyer is an exciting bi-monthly glossy which takes a stylish and comprehensive look at all the options available, setting them out in an entertaining and informative way, and helping potential customers navigate their way through what is often a daunting and complex process. We dispel the myths, reinforce the facts and arm the reader with the tools necessary to make their homeownership dreams a reality.