I have been selling properties in Thurrock for many years, and one of the biggest selling points is there’s always something to do. It is a vibrant and diverse area, offering a great mix of urban and rural living. If you are considering buying a property in Thurrock, here’s a helpful area guide to assist you in making an informed decision:
1. Location and Transportation: Thurrock is conveniently located close to London and major road networks, making it an ideal choice for commuters. The area is well-connected with excellent transport links, including the M25 motorway and A13. The area is served by c2c train lines from Chafford Hundred, East Tilbury, Grays, Ockendon, Purfleet, Stanford le Hope and Tilbury Town to London’s Fenchurch Street and Shoeburyness Station at the coast.
2. Housing: Thurrock offers a variety of housing options to suit different preferences and budgets. From modern apartments and townhouses to traditional family homes, there is something for everyone. You can choose to live in the heart of larger towns such as Grays or explore the surrounding villages like Orsett for a more peaceful setting.
Chafford Hundred is a sought-after location in Thurrock appealing to young professionals and families alike, with well-regarded schools, proximity to Lakeside Shopping Centre and the train station making it easily commutable to London.
Bellway Homes recently completed 456 new homes at Renovo in West Thurrock, where work began in 2018, delivering a range of properties from one bed flats to four bedroom family homes. Bellway point out that their site manager Stuart Taylor received a Seal of Excellence from the National House Building Council (NHBC) for the excellent standard of build work on the development.
3. Education: Thurrock has a good selection of primary and secondary schools, including both state and private institutions. Dilkes Academy in South Ockendon (ages 3-11) and Chafford Hundred Harris Academy (ages 11-19) have Outstanding Ofsted ratings (* as of January 2024).
4. Outdoor Spaces: Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of outdoor spaces in Thurrock. The area boasts beautiful parks, nature reserves, and country parks, such as Coalhouse Fort Park and Langdon Hills Country Park. These green spaces provide opportunities for walking, cycling, picnicking, and enjoying the scenic beauty.
5. Cultural and Leisure Activities: Thurrock has a rich cultural scene with various art galleries, museums, and theatres. The Thurrock Thameside Theatre and the High House Production Park in Purfleet-on-Thames are popular venues for arts and entertainment. Additionally, the area hosts regular events and festivals, showcasing its vibrant community spirit.
6. Shopping and Dining: Thurrock offers a range of shopping options, including the aforementioned Lakeside Shopping Centre, which is one of the largest shopping destinations in Europe. The centre features numerous retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment facilities, including the Nickelodeon Adventure, Boom Battle Bar, Hollywood Bowl and Flip Out trampoline park, providing a comprehensive shopping and entertainment experience.
7. Healthcare Facilities: Thurrock has a good healthcare infrastructure, with several medical centres, clinics, and hospitals located within the area. The nearby Basildon University Hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services to residents (including A&E and Maternity) and Orsett Hospital for other services.
8. Sports and Recreation: Sports enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for physical activities in Thurrock. The area is home to various sports clubs and facilities. Blackshots Leisure Centre located in Grays boasts a state-of-the-art gym, swimming pool, sports hall, and outdoor facilities.
If you are a fan of go-karting, Lakeside Karting is the place to be. It offers a thrilling indoor go-karting experience with a challenging track and competitive racing opportunities.
For golfers, there are plenty of courses to choose from with Belhus Park Golf & County Club and Orsett Golf Club to name a few, with beautiful views and hosting regular tournaments throughout the year.
Thurrock Rugby Club and the Lakeside Hammers Speedway team are also popular attractions for sports fans.
Should you have any questions about Thurrock, please feel free to reach out to me on 07377 342 565 or email at scott.west@exp.uk.com.