Building Surveys & RICS Valuations in Chorley

Property Market Trends in Chorley

Acquiring a comprehensive understanding of the property market in Chorley is essential for both first-time buyers and seasoned investors. Knowledge of stable areas, burgeoning locations, and factors affecting market conditions can greatly assist in making judicious decisions.

Established Areas

• Astley Village: Known for its suburban charm and quality schools, Astley Village continues to offer a stable property market attractive to families.
• Euxton: With a variety of housing options and good local amenities, Euxton remains a reliable choice for a broad spectrum of buyers.

Emerging Districts

• Coppull: With more affordable housing and community development schemes, Coppull is increasingly drawing attention as an emerging market.
• Adlington: Notable for its proximity to the West Pennine Moors and potential for property appreciation, Adlington is an area to watch.

Factors Influencing Market Trends

• Transport Links: Chorley’s excellent connectivity through its railway station and proximity to the M61 makes commuting hassle-free, thereby boosting property values.
• Employment Opportunities: The presence of several business parks and a growing service sector positively impacts the local property market.
• Natural Attractions: With attractions like Yarrow Valley Country Park, the appeal of local properties is enhanced by surrounding natural beauty.

Staying abreast of Chorley’s property market trends equips you to make more strategic choices, whether you’re interested in residential property or investment opportunities.

Sources

• Zoopla: Chorley Property Market
• Chorley Council: Regeneration projects

Structural Condition and Common Issues in Chorley

Understanding the typical structural conditions and potential pitfalls in Chorley’s property market can give you a leg up in making a well-informed decision. From characterful cottages to modern estates, here’s what to keep in mind:

Common Types of Properties

• Historic Cottages: Oozing character but often in need of modernisation, particularly in the areas of electrical and plumbing systems.
• 1970s Detached and Semi-Detached Houses: Usually well-constructed, but may require updates to meet current energy-efficiency standards.
• New Builds: Generally compliant with modern codes but can vary in quality, so it’s essential to be vigilant.

Structural Issues to Look Out For

• Stone Deterioration: Older cottages may show signs of weathering, particularly in the external stone walls.
• Lead Pipes: Houses built in the ’70s may still have lead plumbing, requiring complete replacement.
• Quality of Fittings: For new builds, make sure to check the quality of fittings and finishes, as these can sometimes be subpar.

Key Checks Before Purchase

• RICS Home Survey: A comprehensive survey will provide a deep understanding of any underlying issues, enabling you to negotiate or reconsider your offer.
• Soil Test: Chorley has areas with clayey soil, making it worthwhile to consider a soil test for subsidence risks.
• Local Infrastructure Plans: Check local planning applications for any large-scale projects that could influence property values.

Being versed in the common structural conditions specific to Chorley properties will help you make a more informed investment or purchase.

Sources

• Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS): Importance of a Home Survey
• Chorley Council: Planning and Building Control

Local Amenities in Chorley

Understanding the local amenities is invaluable when you’re considering property options in Chorley. This Lancashire market town successfully balances a rural atmosphere with a range of modern conveniences, making it an ideal spot for various lifestyles.

Food and Drink

• Cafés and Delis: Whether you’re after artisan coffee or fresh pastries, Chorley’s array of cafés has something to suit every palate.
• Restaurants and Pubs: The town’s culinary scene is diverse, featuring everything from classic pub grub to international cuisines.

Shopping

• Chorley Market: A traditional outdoor market offering a wide range of goods, from local produce to crafts.
• Botany Bay: A shopping village known for its antique furniture, artisanal foods, and unique gifts.

Health and Fitness

• Astley Park: A scenic park with walking trails, a lake, and several sporting facilities.
• Fitness Centres: Several gyms and wellness centres offer up-to-date equipment and a variety of classes to suit all fitness levels.

Cultural Venues

• Chorley Little Theatre: The town’s cultural heartbeat, offering a lineup of plays, comedy nights, and musical performances.
• Yarrow Valley Country Park: Ideal for nature lovers, featuring walking paths, wildlife watching, and educational activities.

Education

• Schools: Chorley offers a good selection of schools, from primary right through to secondary, suiting families of all sizes.
• Adult Learning: A variety of courses and vocational training options are available through local educational facilities.

Transport Links

• Chorley Railway Station: Offers strong links to key cities like Manchester and Preston.
• Bus Services: A well-organised bus network ensures easy commutes within the town and to neighbouring areas.

Acquainting yourself with the local amenities in Chorley will provide crucial support in your property decisions, whether you’re contemplating a residential purchase or an investment opportunity.

Sources

• Chorley Council: Parks and Leisure
• Visit Lancashire: Chorley

Commute and Transportation Options in Chorley

If you’re considering Chorley as a prospective location for either property investment or residential purposes, understanding the commute and transportation options is crucial. This guide aims to offer you a general yet detailed overview to support your decision-making process.

Public Transport

• Chorley Railway Station: Serves as an important link connecting Chorley to Preston, Manchester and beyond.
• Bus Services: Providers like Stagecoach offer a range of services that connect Chorley to nearby towns as well as Greater Manchester.

Car and Motorway Access

• M61 Motorway: This motorway offers quick access to Manchester and Preston, making it convenient for long-distance commuting.
• Primary Roads: The A6 and A673 are important routes for local and regional travel.

Taxis and Ride-Shares

• Local Taxi Services: Multiple taxi companies operate within Chorley, providing a variety of options for short and long-distance travel.
• Uber: Although not as widespread as in bigger cities, Uber is an available option for app-based commuting.

Cycling and Walking

• Local Cycle Paths: There are several dedicated cycling routes in Chorley, connecting to broader Lancashire cycling networks.
• Pedestrian Zones: Areas such as the town centre are designed to be pedestrian-friendly, facilitating easier foot travel.

Future Developments

• Lancashire County Council Initiatives: Various schemes are underway aimed at improving public transport, as well as walking and cycling infrastructure.

Being well-informed about the commute and transportation options in Chorley can significantly aid your decision-making, whether it’s for property investment or personal residence.

Sources

• Lancashire County Council: Transport and Travel
• Lancashire County Council: Central Lancashire highways and transport masterplan

Planning Permission and Land Covenants in Chorley

Understanding the nuances of planning permissions and land covenants is crucial for anyone involved in Chorley’s property market, be you a novice homebuyer or a seasoned property investor.

Types of Planning Permission

• Outline Planning Permission: This initial step confirms the principal aspects of a development proposal but will require subsequent approval for detailed plans.
• Full Planning Permission: This all-encompassing permission allows for a wide range of construction tasks, such as new builds, extensions, and refurbishments.
• Permitted Development Rights: These rights enable you to undertake smaller projects, like garage conversions or garden outbuildings, without seeking full planning permission.

Common Land Covenants in Chorley

• Restrictive Covenants: These rules limit how a property can be utilised, such as forbidding business operations or prohibiting certain types of building modifications.
• Positive Covenants: These impose duties on the landowner to perform certain tasks, like maintaining common areas or shared infrastructure.

Factors to Consider

• Local Plans: Chorley is governed by Chorley Council, and their Local Plans provide specific guidance on development and land use within the area.
• Conservation Areas: Some sections of Chorley are designated as conservation areas, which can entail additional planning controls and restrictions.

Local Sources of Help

• Chorley Council Planning Services: This is an invaluable resource for understanding local planning policies, application procedures, and other area-specific details.
• Land Registry: This is an essential source for details on existing land covenants and legal aspects of property ownership.

Tips for Navigating the System

• Pre-application Consultation: Before submitting a formal application, a consultation with Chorley Council can offer valuable insights and potentially streamline the approval process.
• Legal Advice: Due to the legal intricacies of land covenants, it is often wise to consult with a legal professional to fully comprehend your property’s limitations and obligations.

By arming yourself with this knowledge on planning permissions and land covenants in Chorley, you’re better equipped to make informed decisions in the property market.

Sources

• Chorley Council: Planning
• HM Land Registry