The hidden benefits of park life

Property prices of homes close to Burgess Park in Southwark, London, are expected to increase by 5% when its £6 million regeneration scheme is completed, according to leading local estate agent Wooster & Stock.
The South East London park will begin its transformation over the summer and as a result properties located around the park are becoming increasingly sought after.
Becky Munday, Head of Sales at Wooster & Stock, comments: “Prices of homes that are close to the park could increase by 5% over the next two years. Being close to green open spaces is a priority for many buyers in London. The community as a whole will benefit from grow your own schemes, a community market and social recreational sports grounds which have all been incorporated into the design. Young professionals will flock to the area as the park will be ideal for cyclists and runners. Families will also be attracted to the proximity of wildlife schemes and play areas.”
The dramatic makeover for the park is a result of Southwark winning the Mayor of London’s ‘Premier Park’ competition to protect green spaces within the Capital. The 50 hectares of land in Camberwell shall benefit from a professional landscape design, new wildlife habitats, which include butterfly gardens and attractive horticultural planting. Vast improvements are to be made to the fresh water lake, which shall include extended wetlands and fountains. The park will also have a café complete with wooden decking that shall boast views over the lake. In addition to these impressive plans, enhanced security to the entrances and boundaries, as well as better pathways have been outlined as a high priority to create a safer park. The new and improved park is expected to be completed in 2012.
Blair Xavier, 36, is selling his home which is located on an adjacent road to Burgess Park, to retire in Majorca. Blair comments: “This house is in a fantastic location with easy access to the park. I have been regularly updated about the plans for its revamp and it is proving to be a very exciting time for the community. Having completely renovated my property, I strongly support re-designing and improving the local area. I feel I have brought my Victorian home back to life and I am glad the same will be done for Burgess Park. It is just a shame I won’t be able to enjoy the park’s face-lift myself.”
Blair is selling his house which is located in Addington Square conservation area, through Wooster & Stock. Blair lavishly refurbished his three/four bedroom home and the exquisite interiors include a stylish kitchen, luxurious wallpapers and restored original fireplaces. Blair has also installed a walk-in shower room with dual aspect windows that overlook the beautiful, private walled garden.
Although located in a quiet residential street, the property is close to the amenities of Camberwell, which includes a selection of pubs, restaurants and independent shops. Kennington and Oval tube stations are close by, as well as an extensive bus service which all provide excellent transport links across London.
Wooster & Stock is a leading estate agent based in South East London. For further information visit: woosterstock.co.uk