Building Surveys & RICS Valuations in Loughborough

Property Market Trends in Loughborough

Loughborough, a thriving university town in Leicestershire, is known for its vibrant community and active property market that caters to students, families, and professionals alike.

University Influence and Student Living

• Town Centre: With its proximity to Loughborough University, the town centre is a hub of activity, offering a variety of living options from modern flats to shared houses that cater to the student population.
• Golden Triangle: Popular among students for its convenient location between the university and town centre, this area sees consistent rental demand.

Family-Friendly Suburbs

• Forest Side: Known for its quality schools and detached homes, Forest Side is an established suburb that is popular with families.
• Shelthorpe: Offering a range of affordable housing, Shelthorpe is an area with a strong sense of community, making it a solid choice for first-time buyers.

Emerging Developments

• East Loughborough: With ongoing residential developments, this area is expanding, providing modern housing options that attract young professionals and families.
• Dishley and North Loughborough: New housing estates in these areas offer contemporary living spaces with the amenities of suburban life.

Market Dynamics

• Economic Growth: The presence of the Loughborough Science and Enterprise Parks drives employment and housing demand in the vicinity.
• Transport Links: Loughborough’s train station, with services to major cities like London and Nottingham, adds to its appeal for commuters.
• Lifestyle and Recreation: The town’s leisure facilities, parks, and the renowned university sports amenities attract a demographic looking for an active lifestyle.

Understanding Loughborough’s property market trends is crucial for those looking to invest in a town with a strong educational anchor and a growing residential landscape.

Sources

• Rightmove: Loughborough Property Market
• Loughborough Town Deal: Riverside Regeneration

Structural Condition and Common Issues in Loughborough

Loughborough, known for its university and bell foundry, offers a diverse range of properties, from historic houses to modern student accommodations and family homes.

Common Types of Properties

• Period Properties: Including Victorian and Edwardian terraced homes, these often feature solid construction but may need modernisation to meet current efficiency and comfort standards.
• 1930s to 1950s Semi-Detached and Detached Houses: Typically well-built with spacious gardens but might require updates like new heating systems or double glazing.
• Modern Developments: Often located around the university, these properties are designed to contemporary standards but should be scrutinised for build quality and sound insulation.

Structural Issues to Look Out For

• Damp and Mould: A common concern in older properties, particularly if they have not been properly maintained or updated with effective damp-proofing.
• Roof Condition: Historic homes may have original roofs that require maintenance or replacement to prevent leaks and maintain thermal efficiency.
• Insulation Standards: Upgrading insulation is a frequent need in older homes to reduce energy bills and improve warmth.

Key Checks Before Purchase

• RICS Home Survey: Essential for identifying any structural issues, which can affect the property’s value and the cost of future repairs.
• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): Provides an indication of the property’s energy efficiency and potential improvement costs.
• Local Planning Information: Awareness of any local development plans is important, as these can affect property values and the character of the neighbourhood.

By being informed about the structural conditions and common issues in Loughborough, prospective property buyers can make better-informed decisions that account for potential additional investments or maintenance needs.

Sources

• Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) – Home Surveys
• Charnwood Borough Council – Planning and Building Control

Local Amenities in Loughborough

Loughborough, a town within the Charnwood borough of Leicestershire, England, is renowned for its university, bustling market, and beautiful parks. If you’re contemplating relocating to Loughborough or are considering it for property investment, here’s a brief look at the local amenities the town offers:

Food and Drink

• Diverse Cuisine: The town centre is a hub for diverse dining options, including cosy cafés, international restaurants, and traditional British pubs.
• Local Markets: The Loughborough market, held twice a week, is a great place to find fresh local produce and a variety of goods.

Shopping

• The Rushes Shopping Centre: Offers a range of retail stores, services, and a supermarket for convenient access to everyday essentials.
• Independent Shops: Alongside high-street brands, Loughborough supports a thriving community of independent shops and boutiques.

Health and Fitness

• Leisure Centres: Loughborough’s leisure centres, such as the Loughborough Leisure Centre, provide excellent facilities including swimming pools, gyms, and sports halls.
• Parks and Green Spaces: Queen’s Park and the Outwoods offer natural retreats for leisurely walks, jogs, and outdoor activities.

Cultural Venues

• Loughborough Town Hall: Hosts a diverse programme of arts, theatre, and cultural events throughout the year.
• Charnwood Museum: Offers insights into the local history and heritage of the Loughborough area.

Education

• Schools: The town offers a selection of primary, secondary, and grammar schools with strong educational standards.
• Higher Education: Loughborough University is one of the country’s leading universities, known for its engineering and sports-related courses.

Transport Links

• Rail Connections: Loughborough railway station provides direct services to major cities like London, Nottingham, and Sheffield.
• Road Access: The town is well-served by the M1 motorway, making it accessible for both local and long-distance travel.

Loughborough’s amenities cater to a wide array of interests and needs, contributing to its reputation as a vibrant and friendly town.

Sources

• Charnwood Borough Council: Museums and Heritage
• Leicester Mercury – Loughborough: Local News and Features

Commute and Transportation Options in Loughborough

Loughborough, a town within the Charnwood borough of Leicestershire in the East Midlands, offers several transportation options for both local residents and visitors:

Public Transport

• Train Services: Loughborough Railway Station is situated on the Midland Main Line and provides regular services operated by East Midlands Railway, with connections to major cities such as London St Pancras, Nottingham, and Sheffield.
• Bus Services: The town is well-served by local bus services connecting to Leicester, Nottingham, and other surrounding areas. Kinchbus and Arriva Midlands are the primary bus operators.

Car and Motorway Access

• M1 Motorway: Loughborough is close to the M1, providing easy access to the north and south of the country.
• A6: This road runs through Loughborough and connects the town to Leicester and other nearby localities.

Taxis and Ride-Shares

• Local Taxi Companies: Numerous taxi firms operate in Loughborough, offering reliable services for local and regional travel.
• Uber: While the availability of Uber might be less in smaller towns compared to larger cities, it does operate in the area, offering a convenient option for users.

Cycling and Walking

• Cycling Routes: Loughborough and its surrounding areas have a network of cycling paths, and the town is actively working to improve cycling infrastructure.
• Pedestrian-Friendly: The town centre is easily navigable on foot, with pedestrian zones that make shopping and dining out convenient.

Future Developments

• Local Transport Plans: Loughborough is included in Leicestershire County Council’s plans to improve transportation, which includes upgrading road networks and enhancing public transport services.

For those considering Loughborough for its university, business opportunities, or lifestyle, the town’s transportation infrastructure plays a vital role in daily life and can impact property investment decisions.

Sources

• Leicestershire County Council: Transport and Roads
• East Midlands Railway: Loughborough Station

Planning Permission and Land Covenants in Loughborough

For those considering property development or alterations in Loughborough, understanding the local planning permissions and land covenants is vital. These regulations and restrictions can greatly impact what can be achieved with a property.

Types of Planning Permission

• Outline Planning Permission: This form of permission indicates whether a development proposal is generally acceptable, focusing on the scale and nature of the proposal. Detailed plans are then required for final approval.
• Full Planning Permission: Necessary for carrying out actual construction work or making significant changes to a property, this permission must be secured before any work commences.
• Permitted Development Rights: Some minor improvements and alterations may not require full planning permission. However, it’s crucial to verify this with the local planning authority as certain limitations and conditions apply.

Common Land Covenants in Loughborough

• Restrictive Covenants: These are conditions written into a property’s deeds that limit certain uses or prohibit specific actions, such as building extensions or conducting certain types of business from the property.
• Positive Covenants: These require the property owner to take action, such as maintaining a garden or fence, or contributing to the upkeep of communal areas.

Factors to Consider

• Local Plans: Charnwood Borough Council’s Local Plan will have policies affecting development in Loughborough. It’s important to consult these for guidance on how land can be developed or used.
• Conservation Areas: If your property is within a conservation area, there will be additional controls and considerations for any development work to preserve the character of the area.

Local Sources of Help

• Charnwood Borough Council Planning Services: Offers support with the planning process, including advice on planning applications, local planning policies, and pre-application guidance.
• Land Registry: The Land Registry provides information on property ownership and any land covenants that may affect your property.

Tips for Navigating the System

• Pre-application Consultation: Before submitting your planning application, discussing your proposal with the planning department can provide valuable feedback and help identify any potential issues.
• Legal Advice: Given the complex nature of land covenants, it’s often advisable to seek legal advice to understand the full implications for your property.

With a thorough understanding of planning permissions and land covenants in Loughborough, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the planning system and make informed decisions regarding property development.

Sources

• Charnwood Borough Council: Planning
• HM Land Registry