Moving to Southend

[Klara78]

Hi all
I would like to get some advise on areas of Southend
We are selling our house in East London(Newham) and would like to buy one either in Leigh on Sea or nicer part of Westcliff.We need to be close to the c2c line as my partner works in London.We saw one property in Leigh-Highland Estate I love that area is just felt a bit far from everything ,we also saw one in Westliff St. Helen’s Road just off Hamlet Court Road can anyone tell me a bit more about this area... is it safe ? what about schools ? My son is 4 currently in reception.I also noticed quite a few rental properties in that street which were a bit run down. I would appreciate any comments thanks x

[mummarosie1]

Hi, leigh is lovely but would avoid anywhere near hamlet court road like the plague- very dodgey area and a lot of unpleasant people and crime

[gallicgirl]

Agree, follow the line to Chalkwell then be wary. Parts of Westcliff are lovely (near the hospital for example) but HCR is bedsit land unfortunately.

You will pay a premium for living within walking distance to a station.

[Klara78]

Thanks for your comments!! We have put an offer down on a lovely house in Highlands Estate and it was accepted ! Now we just have to sell our one in London.We had a nice walk around Highland Estate area including the woods and are more than happy.Area looks well looked after by the residents and it seems safe xxx

[highinthesky]

Congratulations! I too am heading in that direction from East London, but a bit further along the coast.

Something that really is local knowledge: there is a proposal to reshuffle the catchment boundaries of primary schools in the area. The best ones are Chalkwell Hall and North Street. Darlinghurst has had its troubles of late. Have a look at the following: www.southend.gov.uk/news/article/1254/formal_consultation_on_school_admission_arrangements_to_start

[Klara78]

Thanks for the link I’ll have a look.The guy we are buying off mentioned this to us as well I think we are In a catchment for West Leigh primary at the moment.It is a nightmare trying to get a lovely house within walking distance to the station and good catchment :))) when are you moving? X

[gallicgirl]

West Leigh is fantastic school but you might miss out on catchment if it's big birth year. There is also a consultation at the moment which might put you into Darlinghurst catchment. However, I have friend on that estate whose children were offered places at Hadleigh Primary school and I believe they are happy with it.
Highlands area is a great place to live and I'm sure you'll be happy there.