By Joe Coughlan, Local Democracy Reporter
A South London neighbourhood has been named one of the best places to live in the capital, with experts saying rapid development has attracted residents.
Expatica, a website recommending places to live for those moving countries, has listed North Greenwich as one of the best neighbourhoods in London.
The site mentioned the increase in high-rise buildings was one of the reasons for heightened interest over recent years.
Kerri Sibson, chief operating officer of property developer Knight Dragon, said more than three million people visit North Greenwich each year.
The executive said that arts and culture have been a large factor in the regeneration of the area. This includes public art exhibitions at The Tide park and NOW gallery, as well as workspaces for creative people in the Design District and Bureau coworking space.
Jack Gillman, 24, lives a 10-minute walk from the O2 arena. He said the area was great for getting into Central London, but had lost some of its community feel with recent new builds.
Mr Gillman said: “North Greenwich somewhat lacks soul, I would say, especially if you go to more artsy places like Soho.
“But I guess if an area’s only recently developing, like North Greenwich is, then that’s to be expected.”
Earlier this month, JD Wetherspoon announced that it would be opening a new pub in the O2 worth £3m, scheduled to open next February.
Also included in upcoming plans for the area is Morden Wharf, a huge set of tower blocks up to 36 storeys tall on the peninsula.
The proposal includes 1,500 new homes for the area, alongside a new public space including 3.9 acres of greenery and 17,000sqm of shops.
Other additions from the plans include making the jetty at Morden Wharf public, as well as increasing office space for workers in the area.
Councillor Denise Scott-McDonald said: “I have been a councillor for the area since 2014 and I have seen it grow from strength to strength.
“I have watched this amazing community flourish. The area has its own, unique identity.”
Pictured top: Matt Hunt shown in front of the Upper Riverside apartment blocks in North Greenwich (Picture: Joe Coughlan)
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