Looking for an Estate Agent in the Docklands?

Estate Agent in Docklands

London’s Docklands are one of the most exciting places to live in the city. Just half a century ago, the area was mostly old low-rise buildings and urban decay. But thanks to impressive redevelopment, it is now one of the most coveted places to live in the capital. It provides access to places of work, multiple amenities and sits close to the Thames, providing stunning views. Those living in high-rise accommodation get views over the City, Stratford, Limehouse and many other parts of the city and countryside beyond. 

Development

Docklands was once part of the port of London and the world’s largest ports, featuring giant warehouses that sat right next to Thames for unloading ships. Some of that heritage remains and is celebrated in the Docklands Museum, close to the heart of the Canary Wharf Development. 

In the 1980s, the Conservative government decided that it wanted the area to become a business hub – acting as an alternative to the somewhat congested City of London. Construction began on the development of a 230-metre office building at One Canada Square that later attracted other global corporations to the area. HSBC and Citigroup soon established offices, driving the clustering of yet more financial firms.

Over the last two decades, demand for housing close to these developments skyrocketed, leading to the construction of some of Britain’s tallest and most exclusive apartment buildings.

Docklands development, however, doesn’t do away entirely with the old. There is still a smattering of traditional Victorian houses in the region, providing more traditional living arrangements for those who want them. Many older properties have been heavily modified to make them suitable for modern living. 

Shopping And Entertainment

Sitting right in the commercial heart of London, Docklands offers a plethora of shopping and entertainment options – especially during weekday working hours. Here, you’ll find many shops, restaurants and bars – some of which offer alfresco seating, overlooking the stunning architecture of the area.

Docklands retains many of its traditional waterways and marinas where you can ride in dinghies or take long strolls next to the water. If you enjoy your history, you might want to pay a visit to the Museum of London Docklands which provides exhibits that take you through the history of the area. The region was once the centre of imports and exports to the UK, with thousands of workers using traditional machinery to load and unload cargo from ships. Later, in the middle part of the 20th century, it went into decline before revival from the 1990s onwards. Docklands is also close to the Cutty Sark – a beautiful military vessel with a fabulous history. If you decide to relocate, you’ll also get access to the Docklands Sailing and Watersports Centre which offers a range of activities. 

Outdoor Spaces And Recreation

You would think that as one of the most developed areas of London, Docklands wouldn’t have many opportunities for outdoor recreation. But that’s not entirely true. While green spaces are at a premium, it plays host to multiple parks, play areas and green spaces close by.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a while without having to take a long drive, you can take the DLR to Mudchute Park, an attractive area run by a charity on the Isle of Dogs. It offers more than 32 acres of outdoor space for you to enjoy and rest in. There’s also a city farm – great for kids. 

Just south of the Thames, you’ll find the Royal Greenwich Park. It offers more than 180 acres of open space and provides amenities for both children and adults. It sees millions of people come through its gates every year and is a popular location for playing sports. 

Residents And Architecture

The architecture in the Docklands area is among the most interesting in the country. Outside of the City of London, is it one of the UK’s only genuine high rise commercial developments and forms a second central business district. Those living in the area tend to enjoy waking up to views of large, gleaming tower complexes overlooking the Thames and the rest of London. 

The area is popular among wealthy business people and contractors who serve local firms. Families looking for a cosmopolitan lifestyle will often relocate to the region too. 

Transport

Docklands lies at the heart of the Docklands Light Rail (DLR). It runs from Bank and Tower Gate to many stations in Canary Wharf and southeast London. Residents can take the DLR to Canning Town, Star Lane, Pontoon Dock, Royal Albert, Royal Victoria, King George V, Custom House and London City Airport. They can also rejoin the Central and District Lines of the London Underground at Tower Hill. 

Schools 

Dockland’s schools form part of the Newham Local Education Authority. Quality schools in the area include Britannia Village Primary School, Calverton Primary School, Drew Primary SChool, St. Luke’s Primary School and Star Primary School. It also plays host to the Dockland’s Academy, offering higher education, vocational courses, and English Language instruction. 

Taxes And Rates

The amount of council tax you pay in Docklands depends on your postcode. Just like other areas of the country, the Newham local authority splits residents up into bands. These are as follows: 

• Band A: £922
• Band B: £1,076
• Band C: £1,230
• Band D: £1,383
• Band E: £1,691
• Band F: £1,998
• Band G: £2,305
• Band H: £2,767

Some residents, including disabled people and single-occupiers may be able to apply for discounts. 

Estate Agents In Docklands

Finding a property in Docklands can be a challenge. But as your estate agents, Fisks London is here to help. Our team has tremendous experience and detailed local knowledge of the area. This advantage allows us to find candidate properties with the features you need at competitive prices. 

We are a member of the Association of Residential Letting Agents and have many qualified and provide all the skilled professionals you need to make your transaction a success. Stay abreast of the latest market and regulatory updates lets us give you the best advice and insights.