What’s it like living in Walsall?
Walsall, a town with a rich industrial history and a diverse range of housing options, offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living. However, like any location, Walsall has its pros and cons and your experience will largely depend on your lifestyle and preferences.
Architectural Features of Properties
Walsall boasts a mix of architectural styles, from Victorian terraces and Edwardian semi-detached homes to modern developments. The town’s historical character is highlighted by buildings such as the Grade II* listed Walsall Leather Museum, which showcases Walsall’s leatherworking heritage.
Many older properties feature distinctive local red sandstone, known for its durability but also its porosity. This characteristic can lead to issues with damp if not properly maintained.
Survey Findings Specific to Walsall
Damp Issues: Properties in older areas like Caldmore and Palfrey may exhibit signs of rising damp due to their age and construction methods.
Subsidence Risks: While not widespread, some areas built on old mining land might require subsidence checks.
Roofing Concerns: Older properties with clay tiles may need regular inspections and maintenance.
Energy Efficiency: Period properties with original features like single-glazed windows may have lower energy efficiency ratings.
Local Amenities and Notable Places
Walsall offers a range of amenities, including well-regarded schools like Queen Mary’s Grammar School and Queen Mary’s High School. The Walsall Arboretum, a large park with a lake and woodland, provides ample green space for recreation. Additionally, the New Art Gallery Walsall is a contemporary art gallery with a notable collection. However, some areas of Walsall may lack the vibrancy and cultural offerings found in larger cities.
Flood and Radon Risks
Some properties along the River Tame and its tributaries may be at risk of flooding. Radon levels in Walsall are generally low, but it’s advisable to conduct a radon test, particularly for older properties.
Traffic Congestion and Issues
Walsall town centre can experience congestion, particularly in areas like Moncrieffe Street, where residents have petitioned for traffic improvements. The town benefits from good transport links to Birmingham, which offers a broader range of entertainment and cultural activities. If commuting to Birmingham is important, consider living near a train station on the Walsall-Birmingham line.
Conservation Areas
Walsall has several conservation areas, such as the Walsall Town Centre Conservation Area and the Church Hill Conservation Area, which are protected to preserve their historic character. Planned developments, including the ongoing regeneration of the town centre, may impact local traffic and infrastructure.
Safety and Crime Statistics
Walsall has a higher crime rate compared to the West Midlands average. Car theft has been a particular concern in areas like Pelsall. It’s advisable to research specific neighbourhoods for crime statistics and consider safety measures.
Home Survey Considerations
A thorough property survey is essential for any home purchase in Walsall. Due to the age and variety of properties, it’s recommended to seek a surveyor experienced with both modern and period homes. Historic properties may require specialised conservation surveys.
Local Building Materials and Their Implications
Red sandstone, commonly used in older properties, requires regular maintenance to prevent damp issues. It is also prone to staining, so consider this if planning exterior renovations.
Comparison with Nearby Areas
Compared to nearby areas like Aldridge, Streetly and parts of Pelsall, which offer quieter and potentially more desirable living environments, central Walsall might seem less appealing. Blakenall is generally an area to be cautious about due to safety concerns.
Overall Impression
Walsall is a town of contrasts. While some areas may feel run-down, others offer a charming suburban lifestyle. Its affordability and proximity to Birmingham are significant advantages, but potential buyers should carefully weigh these benefits against the town’s challenges.
Where is the best place to live in Walsall?
Determining the “best” place to live in Walsall ultimately depends on your personal preferences and priorities. However, based on crime data, community feedback and local features, here’s a detailed breakdown of some of Walsall’s most notable areas:
Safest Areas
The Delves: The Delves is renowned for its safety, featuring lower crime rates and a peaceful environment. Residents appreciate the quiet streets and strong sense of community.
Walsall East: Walsall East offers a safe and welcoming atmosphere with excellent local amenities and a friendly community vibe. It’s a great choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle with access to essential services.
Walsall South-East: This area also benefits from low crime rates and offers a pleasant living environment. It’s a solid option for families and individuals looking for a safe and well-regarded neighbourhood.
More Desirable Areas (with Considerations)
Aldridge: Aldridge provides a charming, village-like atmosphere with reputable schools and a quieter setting. While it’s further from Walsall town centre, it offers a more suburban lifestyle with excellent local amenities. However, its distance from the centre might be a drawback for those who prefer a more urban lifestyle.
Streetly: Similar to Aldridge, Streetly offers a semi-rural environment with good schools and amenities. It’s well-regarded by families seeking a tranquil living environment. Keep in mind that, like Aldridge, it is somewhat removed from the town centre.
Parts of Pelsall: Certain areas of Pelsall are considered pleasant with a strong community feel. While there have been issues with car theft, many find Pelsall to be a desirable place to live due to its charm and community spirit.
Walsall Wood: This former mining village offers a strong community atmosphere and features some appealing older properties. It’s a good choice for those looking for character and a sense of local heritage, though it may not have the same level of amenities as more central locations.
Areas to Approach with Caution
Walsall Central: Walsall Central has the highest crime rate in Walsall and may not be the best choice for those seeking a safe and peaceful environment.
Walsall West and Pleck: These areas follow Walsall Central in terms of crime statistics and might not offer the most desirable living conditions. Consider visiting these areas to gauge whether they meet your personal requirements.
Areas Near the M6 Corridor: Living close to the M6 corridor can be noisy due to heavy traffic and industrial activity. If you’re sensitive to noise or prefer a quieter setting, these areas might not be ideal.
Blakenall: Blakenall has a reputation for higher crime rates and is generally advised against for potential homebuyers prioritising safety.
Additional Considerations
Proximity to Train Stations: If commuting to Birmingham is important for you, consider living near a train station on the Walsall-Birmingham line. Areas around train stations generally offer good transport links but be aware of potential noise and safety issues.
Specific Streets and Neighbourhoods: Within any area, the quality of housing and community feel can vary significantly. It’s important to research specific streets, visit them at different times of day and speak with local residents to get a true sense of the neighbourhood.
Recommendations for Homebuyers
- Do Your Research: Check crime statistics on websites like Crimerate and Police UK. Visit the areas you’re considering at various times to understand the local environment.
- Consider Your Priorities: Reflect on what’s most important to you in a neighbourhood, whether it’s a quiet suburban setting, good schools, proximity to amenities, or transport links.
- Consult Local Estate Agents: Estate agents can offer valuable insights into different neighbourhoods and current property values. They can also provide information on potential issues and future developments.
By taking these factors into account, you can make a more informed decision about the best area for you in Walsall.
