Regeneration brings new garden suburb to Barnet
Alongside government plans to create a new generation of garden cities, a wave of 21st century garden suburbs is now springing to life. In Chipping Barnet, North London, developer Countryside is creating Brook Valley Gardens, a modern interpretation of the traditional garden suburb. The scheme is bringing much needed regeneration to the Dollis Valley Estate, with high quality new homes and a range of amenities, set in a sustainable and attractive environment.
Inspired by the original garden suburbs of the early 20th century, among which notable examples are Hampstead Garden Suburb and Gidea Park, modern garden suburbs are bringing urban regeneration and renewal to outer areas of our cities. Based on the same principles of green open space, community, imaginative design and healthy living, Brook Valley Gardens will be a vibrant and inclusive place to live. Bordered by leafy residential areas, playing fields, open space and golf courses, Brook Valley Gardens replaces the former Dollis Valley Estate, which had been identified as one of Barnet’s priority regeneration schemes. Homes now launched in the first of five phases include a range of two, three and four bedroom houses.
Richard Cherry, Chief Executive of Countryside’s Partnerships division said: “Our long term vision for Brook Valley Gardens is to create a sustainable new quarter that is outward looking and connected to the attractive neighbourhoods that surround it. High social and environmental standards are central to the designs, boasting generous open spaces that link with the wider natural environment. Regenerating over a period of eight years and in five phases, the range of different house designs will suit a variety of buyers and lifestyles. Those interested now have the opportunity to get in at an early stage of the regeneration and snap up a home in a neighbourhood with an exciting future.”
When complete, Brook Valley Gardens will comprise some 600 new homes, alongside excellent facilities including a community centre, nursery, shared communal gardens, children’s play areas and public open space. Convenient transport links from nearby High Barnet Station provide direct links with central London via the Northern Line.
Designed by Stirling Prize winning Alison Brooks Architects, Brook Valley Gardens predominantly offers two and three-storey terraced houses with private gardens. Architecture features buff brickwork and a characteristic geometry that is a nod to the Arts & Craft architecture of the surrounding Barnet neighbourhoods, with distinctive crown and mansard roofs and dormer windows inspired by London’s 19th century suburbs.
The four bedroom homes in particular boast interiors that are bright and airy, which are flooded with natural light thanks to fully glazed French doors to the living spaces, and full height windows with balconies to the master bedrooms. A high specification throughout ensures all homes exude contemporary style, with sleek and stylish kitchens featuring a full range of energy efficient appliances. Other eco features are incorporated such as rainwater harvesting, community recycling, measures to promote local biodiversity and water saving fittings, helping create an environmentally friendly place to live.
Brook Valley Gardens is poised to blend well into its attractive North London surroundings where residents will benefit from excellent local amenities and schools, as well an easy commute into central London and convenient road links. Nearby, Barnet High Street bustles with local retail and coffee shops including a Waitrose supermarket and a thriving weekly market. A wide range of sports and leisure facilities are close by, as well as abundant open spaces, parks and woodlands.
Prices start from £420,000 for a two bedroom home. Prices for a three bedroom house starts from £565,000 and £699,950 for a four bedroom property. For more information, visit brookvalleygardens.co.uk.
