Maria Stopps Journey to Pegasus Homes at Highfields, West Byfleet

A New Beginning

Maria Stopps, 77, found herself at a crossroads after the passing of her husband of 56 years. Her house was sold, and she needed somewhere to move in quickly and easily. With a daughter, son-in-law and two granddaughters living nearby in West Byfleet, Maria's family played a crucial role in her next big decision. 

Initially, Maria was hesitant about moving to a later living community. Her daughter, however, saw the potential of Pegasus Homes at Highfields and orchestrated a visit without telling Maria! After seeing the community, they were convinced it was worth Maria taking a look. The beautifully maintained grounds, the convenience of the location, and the impressive amenities quickly won her over. "I was blown away," she recalls. The transition was swift and seamless, with Maria moving into her new home in August 2024. 

Settling In

Maria found the move to her two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment on the second floor easy. The Aprico team assisted Maria with the move, a complementary service offered to every resident at Pegasus Homes. Aprico helped make the process a seamless one, dealing with the difficult and often stressful parts of a home move. 

The apartment, with its lovely views and private balcony, provided everything she needed. The proximity to her daughter, just a two-minute drive away, was invaluable. Maria's family often visits, enjoying the communal spaces at Highfields together.

Maria has also embraced the vibrant community at Highfields. The beautifully maintained gardens and allotments offer a peaceful retreat without the need for her to lift a finger. The communal spaces are vast, providing plenty of room to relax or socialise. “I enjoy the monthly meetings, social events, and the Friday evening sundowner drinks that sometimes even turn into nightcaps! You can do as much or as little as you want," says Maria, who appreciates the flexibility.

Maria's perception of later living communities has changed dramatically since moving to Highfields. She had previously associated them with care homes, which made her nervous due to past experiences with her mother-in-law. However, Pegasus Homes has provided a vibrant community with residents of various ages and more couples than she expected. "It's nothing like I imagined," Maria admits.

Life in West Byfleet

West Byfleet has proven to be an excellent location for Maria, “The local theatre in Woking brings in London shows which I often enjoy with friends. There are also plenty of lovely restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.” The West Byfleet town centre is undergoing regeneration, promising even more shopping options on the horizon. Maria enjoys the local coffee shops and the ease of getting around, whether driving into Weybridge or taking an Uber to Brooklands for coffee with friends.

Maria is very content with her decision to move to Pegasus Homes. The proximity to her family, the supportive community, and the excellent amenities have exceeded her expectations. "It's a wonderful place to live," she says, grateful for the new friendships and the sense of belonging she has found at Highfields in West Byfleet.

About Highfields, West Byfleet 

Located on Broad Oaks Estate, Highfields, West Byfleet was officially opened in August 2023 and consists of 75 one- and two-bedroom contemporary independent apartments carefully curated by Love Interiors, available for private purchase. 

Designed to encourage healthier living and champion community gardening, Highfields provides residents with 35 allotments and vegetable growing within an acre of Victorian landscaped grounds. The Grade II listed Model Dairy on-site has been transformed into a hobby room and library by Grosvenor Hartley Interiors. The second phase of the development launched in September 2024, comprising 35 brand new apartments with refurbished outdoor facilities, including additional allotments available for private hire.

Prices start from £495,000. For further information please contact Pegasus Homes at 01932 911 092 or visit www.pegasushomes.co.uk/our-communities/highfields/