Florence street hitchin

[Unicornwasabi]

DH and I are looking to move to Hitchin. We’ve seen so many houses and it’s been quite difficult to find something we like for our budget. There’s two houses on the market in Florence Street and we’re thinking of making an offer. However, we’ve just found out there’s plans for the building in front of the house to be converted into temporary accommodation for YMCA. We don’t mind this but are worried about house prices and a bit about safety since we’re thinking of having a baby. We love the area and the houses are lovely. Anyone local who might have an opinion about this? What would you do?

Where are you moving from, OP? I ask because that area of Hitchin often appeals to people coming from London who like Victorian houses and don't mind it feeling quite "urban". However, I would urge caution. For starters, parking there is AWFUL. It's permit only, and very, very congested. Fine now, but once you have kids, pain in the bum (even though it's a short walk to town / station). It's also on the edge of what's locally known as "takeaway corner" - you get a lot of litter, late night revellers and as I know from someone who used to live on Nightingale Road, occasional used needles etc left around. There can be some anti social behaviour from the nearby homeless shelter. It might be a fun place for a young couple, but would probably wear thin quickly with a young family.

@Biscuittinofdoom we’re moving from a small village but are ok with it being a bit more urban. Our main worry is parking, future house prices and safety in general. We love Hitchin but we’re having issues finding a house and road we like. All houses seem to need at least £70-£100k of work or are located in rough/soulless areas. We didn’t consider the litter and possible dodgy trash that might be around.

I wouldn't worry too much about house prices, Hitchin has become so desirable, people will literally buy anything - even in the historically worst addresses, people just lap it up and the prices just keep going up and up too.

Only you can know how much the litter, transient nature and anti-social element would bother you. The houses ARE lovely, but you may find charm and character doesn't offset inconvenience or noise when you have young children. Plenty of people do like living around there - personally, I would avoid all the areas around Dacre Road, Florence Street, Kings Road etc if you're hoping to stay for the long haul. If you think you'd move in a few years anyway, maybe it'd be fine. But the parking really is BAD, Hitchin traffic gets worse year on year.

Don't know what your budget is, but maybe look at the one on Wilton Road if you haven't yet. It's not the most gorgeous street, but I know someone who lived down there and loved it, still characterful properties, still near town but quieter, calmer and off-road parking.

@Biscuittinofdoom booking a viewing now! Thank you so much!!!