Looking for a suburb with a minimal commute? West Hendon, situated between the North Circular and Colindale and separated from central Hendon by the M1, could be the answer.
This area is very different from a decade ago, when plans were approved to redevelop the shabby 1960s West Hendon estate.
In the interim West Hendon has become a thriving, revitalised community, popular with first-time buyers due to its convenience, reasonable-for-zone 3 property prices and new build flats, often purchased using Help to Buy before the scheme was scrapped earlier this year.
As well as great road links, it has Thameslink trains at Hendon station, the Northern Line at Hendon Central and 24/7 buses to an the West End, though locals don’t need to venture far for shopping, with Brent Cross on the doorstep and supermarkets, restaurants and the capital’s biggest Asian food hall up the road in Colindale.
The neighbourhood’s crowning glory is the Welsh Harp reservoir – a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a haven for birds, wildlife and inner-city sailors.
At the beginning of May, Mehmet Meral, a 31-year old computer engineer, moved into his first home at Hendon Waterside in West Hendon.
He put down a 25 per cent deposit on the one-bedroom top-floor flat which directly overlooks the Welsh Harp.
Why West Hendon?
Prior to buying I’d been renting in Maidstone but living in London was always a dream of mine.
I needed a peaceful environment and a natural view – living by the Thames wouldn’t work for me as the water’s too brown!
Another priority was low crime rates as I wanted to feel safe when going outside.
What motivated you to buy now?
I’m originally from Turkey and in December 2022 I received my indefinite leave to remain status and a month later began searching for a property to buy.
I’d saved my deposit over the past five years, and believe that buying a home is a good investment.
Unlike when renting, my money isn’t being wasted.
How did you settle on this particular flat?
My key thing was that working from home I wanted a lovely view. While some people love cityscapes, I love looking out at greenery and wetlands.
My flat is on the 20th floor and has a large balcony, so the view is amazing! The blue water of the reservoir is like a pool, and I can see birds and people sailing –now I’m keen to learn to sail myself!
Whenever I’m stuck, gazing out at the water and trees always sparks ideas!
Finding somewhere with parking was also important, and the property needed to be ready to move into as I didn’t want to buy off-plan and have to wait for it to be built.
Fortunately this one was finished so I was able to view it,though initially I didn’t think I’d get it as someone else was interested but later dropped out.
Your favourite thing about the development – apart from the reservoir?
It’s very easy to go out and abut, being so close to the North Circular and train and tube stations.
And my neighbours are great – all young professionals in their early 30s, who help each other out. We’ve already set up a WhatsApp group.
What’s new in West Hendon
Hendon Waterside
Over 2,000 one, two and three-bedroom homes are being built on the former West Hendon estate site, next to the Welsh Harp and 420 acres of green space.
Each has a private balcony or terrace, and car parking’s available with most.
One and two-bedroom flats are currently for sale, requiring just a five per cent deposit through the Deposit Unlock scheme.
From £391,000, Find out more: Here.
SO Resi Hendon Waterside
This summer, 42 shared ownership homes – a mix of studio, one and two-bedroom flats and two and three-bedroom duplexes -will be launched at Hendon Waterside.
They’ll include fully fitted kitchens and appliances, private outside space and parking.
The minimum share is 25 per cent, and prices will be announced shortly.
Find out more: Here.
Silk Stream
1,309 homes by St George, ranging from suites (studios) to family sized three-beds, all with a terrace or balcony.
Residents get access to the facilities at The Silk Club – a gym, screening rooms, a lounge and co-working areas – and landscaped and podium gardens.
From £432,000, Find out more: Here.
L&Q at Rookery Grove
Studio, one and two-bedroom London Living Rent flats with balconies, open plan kitchen/living/dining rooms and underfloor heating are coming soon.
Under this scheme, rent is discounted, enabling tenants to save a deposit and go on to buy via shared ownership if they wish to.
Private sale homes will also be available.
From £949.83 per month.
Find out more: Here.
Colindale Gardens
Redrow is delivering thousands of new homes on a site previously occupied by a police training college, close to Colindale station.
The latest phase comprises studio, one, two and three-bedroom flats with their own outdoor space and access to a gym and concierge, and moments from a park.
From £379,995.
Find out more: Here.
Bronze House at Colindale Gardens
Part of the wider development, these one and two-bedroom shared ownership homes are ready to move into and have flooring throughout, integrated Bosch appliances and a balcony, terrace or podium garden.
Only six are left, from £88,750 for a 25 per cent share of £355,000, requiring a minimum £4,438 deposit.
Find out more: Here.
West Hendon’s vital statistics
Average property price: £474,763 Average rent: £2,314pcm
Council tax (Band D): £1,836.16
Commuting time to Zone 1: 18 mins to St Pancras International
Season ticket: £1,916 pa
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