PROPERTY experts Cluttons has launched a Thames Gateway team in recognition of the regeneration and development work across the area.

The Gateway, identified as a major growth area by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, spans three regions, 18 local authorities, two urban development corporations and 14 areas earmarked as “zones of change”, and by 2016 will see an estimated 120,000 new homes built.

Cluttons have assembled a 23-strong team of experts working from its offices in Maidstone, Canterbury, and London.

The team will advise strategic authorities, landowners and developers on planning, valuation, new homes and commercial, and will be backed up by the firm’s research department.

Malcolm Chumbley, head of development and regeneration, said: “The Gateway is one, if not the, most exciting area for commercial development in the UK and probably northern Europe.

“The potential for sustainable growth is enormous, but for this to be realised it is essential that expert property advice is on hand to ensure we create the communities we all aspire to and don’t repeat the mistakes of the past.”