Love thy neighbours: How property developers are trying to help residents become friends We all know when you're short of sugar or don't have enough mint for that mojito, what you need is a friendly neighbour. But how many of us even know their names, let alone what type of herbs they grow? But that might be about to change. The success of last month's Big Lunch in London, where street parties took place all over the capital, suggests we are trying to recreate that sense of belonging. Everybody needs good neighbours: Property developers are trying to help people reach out to those living around them Property developers are keen to capture the mood. Rydon Homes's Bourn Meadows, an enclave of 27 homes in Kirdford, Sussex Weald, is strong on the feelgood factor. 'Some residents have formed their own early morning running club, while several birthdays have - weather permitting - been celebrated on the village green,' says resident Sheila Frampton. But this type of neighbourliness no longer happens by chance. Factors such as layout - in this case, a village green - play a part. Some developers even organise gatherings to help things along. Rydon Homes runs regular Meet The Neighbours events, strawberry teas and wine tastings at Bourn Meadows, where a five-bedroom detached house is priced at 650,000, and a two-bedroom semi at 299,950, (01403 820824, rydonhomes.co.uk). At Clayton Mills, in Hassocks, West Sussex, the house builders brought in a petting zoo to encourage families with children to