Hi everyone, we are considering to buy in Beckenham (asap post lockdown). I have a few questions, which are hard to figure out in lockdown, other than online. Am hoping someone can help!
Background: we are currently in Balham area (SW London), which we love, but are looking for more space and a bit of longevity/slower pace, but if possible still be able to walk 15-20 mins to brunch :). We have DD aged 7mth who will need nursery from August + school in a few years (preferably state). I've looked at catchment areas online, but they're not always exact.
- King's Hall/Aldersmead Rd: how much traffic is there usually (hard to tell in lock-down) and would they fall in catchment area for Alexandra/Harris?
- Barnmead Rd: how busy is the Kent House trainline (any freight?), would you buy backing onto the tracks, why is the state of the road so bad, and would it fall in catchment area for Alexandra/Harris?
- Cedar's Rd: how much through-traffic is there and would it fall in catchment Balgowan?
- Crescent/Oakhill Rd: is it very religious (given no. of churches) and how does that area compare to the one above?
- Ravensbourne: this feels a lot more rural/mature than the other areas - do any young families live here?
- Schools: Alexandra, Harris, Balgowan and Clare House all look good on paper. We are looking for a friendly playful environment for DD, but with decent results as we may need her to sit 11+ / entrance exams for independent secondary.
- Any preferred nurseries? What is Fennie's like? I haven't yet registered anywhere, so am conscious it may be tricky to get a place..
- Commute: how many more faster trains are there from Beckenham junction vs Clock/Kent House (again hard to tell on Lockdown timetable)? We are currently commuting into Blackfriars and Victoria, but might change jobs.
Apologies for the number of questions.. thoughts on any of the above would be welcome!