What’s it like living in Lichfield?
Lichfield is a cathedral city with a rich history. Known for its excellent schools, thriving independent shops, lively cultural scene and abundant green spaces, Lichfield offers a wonderful living experience. This guide will help you explore what makes Lichfield special and provide essential information for potential homebuyers, including key safety considerations.
Architectural Features of Properties in Lichfield
Lichfield is known for its diverse range of architectural styles, from grand Georgian townhouses to sleek modern developments. The city’s buildings often feature distinctive red sandstone, which, while beautiful, requires regular maintenance due to its porous nature and susceptibility to staining.
At the heart of the city is the stunning Lichfield Cathedral, a prime example of medieval Gothic architecture that shapes the town’s character and influences local planning regulations due to its protected status.
Older properties, especially those with period features like timber framing, may have lower energy efficiency ratings and potential issues such as rising damp. For example, properties on Beacon Street are known for their damp problems due to older construction techniques. A thorough property survey will help identify these issues.
Local Amenities and Notable Places
Lichfield offers a range of amenities that cater to both families and individuals. King Edward VI School and The Friary School are two of the city’s highly regarded schools and Lichfield Cathedral School offers excellent independent education with some music scholarships available. For additional options, nearby Sutton Coldfield has the prestigious Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School for boys and a counterpart for girls.
The city centre is vibrant, featuring a variety of independent shops, cafés and regular markets, including a popular farmers market. Although Debenhams has closed, the council plans to convert the space into an indoor artisan market and startup hub. Lichfield also boasts numerous pubs with live music and cultural events are held at venues like the Guildhall and St Mary’s Centre. The Fuse Festival in Beacon Park is a highlight and food enthusiasts will enjoy the city’s food festivals and the annual Bower carnival and fair.
Flood and Radon Risks in Lichfield
Lichfield generally has a low risk of flooding, though some areas near the River Trent might experience occasional issues. It is advisable to consult the Environment Agency’s flood maps for specific property locations.
Radon levels are typically low in Lichfield, but a radon test is still recommended for older properties to ensure safety.
Traffic Congestion and Public Transport
Traffic congestion can occur during peak hours, particularly around Birmingham Road. However, Lichfield benefits from excellent transport links, with Lichfield City and Trent Valley train stations offering frequent services to Birmingham and London. The train journey to Birmingham takes around 15 minutes from the city centre.
Conservation Areas in Lichfield
Lichfield features several conservation areas, including Cathedral Close and St John’s Street, which are protected to maintain the town’s historic character. These designations can affect planning permissions for property alterations or extensions.
Safety and Crime Statistics
Lichfield is generally a safe place to live, though recent statistics show a slightly higher crime rate compared to other medium-sized towns in Staffordshire. In 2023, the crime rate was 79 crimes per 1,000 people, which is above the Staffordshire average. It is important to research specific neighbourhoods and stay informed about local crime trends.
Home Survey Considerations in Lichfield
A detailed property survey is essential for potential buyers in Lichfield. The survey should focus on potential damp issues in older properties and check for subsidence risks in areas with clay soil.
Local Building Materials and Maintenance
Red sandstone, commonly used in Lichfield’s older properties, requires regular upkeep to prevent weathering and staining. Consider this if you plan any exterior renovations.
Comparison with Nearby Areas
Compared to nearby locations like Burntwood and Tamworth, Lichfield offers a more historic and picturesque setting, with a broader range of independent shops and restaurants. Green spaces such as Beacon Park and the newer Darwin Park add to its appeal. However, property prices in Lichfield are generally higher.
Desirable Areas for Homebuyers
For family-friendly neighbourhoods, Boley Park and the newer Darwin Park are popular choices. Darwin Park, located a 15-minute walk from the train station, offers modern homes and pleasant green spaces. Be aware that rapid development in Lichfield has led to some concerns about the need for additional amenities, such as doctors’ surgeries.
Additional Considerations for Teens
Lichfield provides opportunities for dance, theatre and sports, though some teenagers might find the entertainment options limited. However, the city’s proximity to Birmingham, accessible by a short train ride, offers a wide range of activities and entertainment.
Conclusion
Lichfield is an appealing option for homebuyers looking for a lively community with excellent amenities. However, it’s important to consider factors such as crime rates and property maintenance before making a decision. By understanding these aspects, you can make a well-informed choice about whether Lichfield is the right place for you.
Where is the best place to live in Lichfield?
Selecting the best place to call home in Lichfield hinges on your personal preferences and lifestyle needs. Fortunately, Lichfield is a compact city where most neighbourhoods are within walking distance of the town centre and its amenities, making it a convenient and pleasant place to live. Here’s an overview of some popular areas, along with local insights to help you decide:
City Centre
Pros: Vibrant atmosphere with easy access to shops, restaurants and cultural attractions. A mix of historic and modern properties offers diverse living options.
Cons: Can be busier and potentially more expensive.
Popular Streets: The Close, St. John’s Street, Market Street.
Boley Park
Pros: A desirable residential area known for its family-friendly atmosphere and good schools. Close to Darnford Park for outdoor activities.
Cons: May be pricier due to its popularity.
Newer Developments
Darwin Park
Pros: Features modern homes, landscaped gardens and is conveniently located near Waitrose supermarket and the train station.
Cons: Higher housing density might make the area feel a bit cramped.
The Spires (Bower Park)
Pros: A newly built community offering contemporary homes in a quieter location.
Cons: Located further from the city centre.
Other Areas
Streethay
Pros: Offers a village atmosphere with a range of housing options and is popular with families.
Cons: Further from the city centre, which may require a car for some residents.
Additional Insights from Locals
- If you prefer more space between houses, avoid newer estates.
- Boley Park is highly sought after but can be expensive.
- Consider the area around Morrisons, near the border of Dimbles, for a quiet and convenient location.
- The Trent Valley station area is generally less desirable.
- Public transportation in Lichfield is good, so owning a car might not be necessary.
Ultimately, the best way to find your ideal home in Lichfield is to explore different neighbourhoods, weigh your priorities and talk to local residents. Lichfield offers a welcoming community and a range of options to suit various lifestyles, helping you find the perfect place to settle and enjoy this charming city.
