Norwood: A trendy town in the heart of London

Norwood is a trendy area in London, situated within the London borough of Lambeth. The area includes Gipsy Hill and West Norwood.

It is the smallest and least populated town centre in Lambeth. The area hit the headlines after appearing in the Metro, which described it as a "friendly area that's often overlooked".

The report said that Norwood was surrounded by some of the most desirable places to live, including Crystal Palace and Dulwich Village.

According to local Estate Agents in the area, property prices have risen by 30 per cent over the last year.

Alex Patton of Winkworth estate agency, told the Metro: "A three-bed maisonette that sold for £275,000 last year is now around £410,000. One-bed conversions start at about £200,000, two-bed flats from £320,000 and those with a garden are between £370,000 and £400,000. 

"A mid-terrace two-bed cottage in West Norwood is about £370,000, three-bed houses are £500,000 to £550,000 and a large four-bed house from £850,000."

He added that the area has been subject to a lot of gentrification over the years. This is partly due to the fact a number developers have began to invest in the area over the years.

"There's been a change in the demographic as middle-class young professionals who couldn't afford surrounding areas are now moving in. It has a strong community feel, a choice of state and private schools, is family-orientated and transport links are excellent," he added.

The area is highly sought after and enjoys continuing popularity from Londoners. There is never a dull moment in Norwood and there are a variety of activities that take place throughout the year which people can get stuck into.

Lifestyle

One of the most well known events to take place is the West Norwood Feast. The first event was held in April 2011 as a result of a collaboration between Lambeth Council and Space Makers, an innovation agency dedicated to re-designing public spaces. 

It is a monthly, community event which is organised by local residents and businesses. Each month at the market, residents can use the platform to show off their skills, form partnerships with others and meet members of the community.

Organisers of the feast said that their aim is to "make West Norwood a better place to live by encouraging the development of the town centre through social and economic interventions".

Leisure

Recently Lambeth Council announced that it will be erecting a £14.2 million health and leisure centre. Residents have even been given the opportunity to choose the name of the centre.

After short-listing names suggested by over 100 residents, the council is allowing locals to choose from either Norwood Hall; West Norwood Health and Leisure Centre; or West Norwood Meadows.

The centre is set to open in late spring next year, and is being built on the site of the disused, former Norwood Hall.

It will come complete with a swimming pool, gym with 100 workstations, plus a dance studio, local GP practice, dentistry services, a Lambeth Council customer service point and community room.

Commenting on the developments, councillor Jackie Meldrum, council deputy leader, said: "We've had lots of interest in the naming of this brilliant new centre. We want as many people as possible to now have their final say. The health and leisure centre is really taking shape now and once completed it will give West Norwood a huge boost.

"Aside from the health benefits locals will be able to take from having a sports centre so close to home, we hope to see benefits to trade and local businesses from those using the centre."

Famous faces

Norwood has had its fair share of famous personalities who have all blessed the area with their presence. This includes singer Adele, former mayor of London Ken Livingstone, Faithless vocalist Maxi Jazz and the rock band the Noisettes, among others.

Published 24th January, 2014

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