April, 2016
Gloucester Docks has fast become one of the most popular places in Gloucester to live and socialise. In our latest blog we look at the history of the area, what it’s like to live in Gloucester Docks and property values
The History
In the early 1800’s Gloucester was one of the busiest ports in Britain “Early imports included corn from Ireland and the Continent, timber from the Baltic and North America, and wines and spirits from Portugal and France. The main export was salt which was brought down the river from Worcestershire.” (Reference: http://www.gloucesterdocks.me.uk/studies/historydocks.htm April 2016).
When the industry that supported the docks and its infrastructure declined, the area sadly went into disrepair. It wasn’t until the turn of the 21st Century that much needed investment was made and the new destination was created.
Multi-million pound investment by developer The Peel Group has transformed the Docks and Quays into a thriving residential, shopping and leisure quarter. Regeneration has filtered through the city with planning applications also in place to transform the Kings Quarter area, Blackfriars and Baker’s Quay which will see new housing, retail and leisure facilities.
Leisure
The historic warehouses are of mixed use, many converted to luxury residential apartments and others for office use. A prime warehouse overlooking the main basin is owned by the National Waterways Museum and is in the process of major refurbishment. The museum is due to re-open mid-2016. Further tourist destinations include the Soldiers of Gloucester Museum, Upstairs Downstairs Antique Centre and Gloucester leisure cruises. .
The port is a very popular mooring destination. The docks can accommodate narrow boats, smart motor cruises and the occasional yacht and tall ship.
The centre of the regeneration was the Gloucester Quays Designer Outlet. This modern shopping mall has been extremely popular attracting new retailers to the city including Marks & Spencer, Next and Fat Face.
The Quays host a variety of events throughout the year including the popular food festival which attracts thousands of visitors from all over the country.
While there is a plethora of activities to keep you occupied in the day, you will not be disappointed with the evening entertainment either. Within the Quays complex is the multiplex cinema chain Cineworld, showing the latest international blockbusters in 2D and 3D formats. Located around the Quays and the main dock are a plethora of fantastic eateries including many well-known chains and fantastic independents including Correttos, an authentic Italian café and Tank which is run by Gloucester Brewery.
Living in the docks
With its convenient location within the city centre and easy access to the surrounding area make the docks a popular place to live for those working in the city. The unique waterside position also attracts residents from Cheltenham and beyond.
The luxury apartments are very popular with retirees who are looking to downsize from larger homes to enjoy the local attractions and the docks sociable community.
Accommodation within the docks includes a mix of warehouse conversions and new build apartment complexes. These vary in size from 1-3 bedrooms. Many apartment enjoy water views while others delight in the superb west facing views towards May Hill and the Malvern hills.
The apartments have been well thought out for the today’s market. Built in appliances (where applicable) and wooden floors are attractive to short term tenants and investors. The converted warehouses look fantastic with neutral decoration to show off their traditional features including exposed beams and steel columns. The large windows in the new build complexes allow the natural light to flood in.
Below is a selection of apartments to purchase and to rent in Gloucester Docks:
MERCHANTS QUAY, GLOUCESTER DOCKS - Purchase price £137,500
BIDDLE & SHIPTON, THE DOCKS, GLOUCESTER - Purchase price £182,500
BARGE ARM EAST, GLOUCESTER DOCKS - Purcahse price £185,000
NORTH POINT, GLOUCESTER DOCKS - Rental price £800 PCM
BIDDLE & SHIPTON, GLOUCESTER DOCKS - Rental price - £725 PCM
PRIDAYS MILL, COMMERCIAL ROAD, GLOUCESTER - Rental price £595 PCM
Hempsted
If you are looking for a house rather than apartment, a new development further up the canal has proved extremely popular. Located in Hempsted and a 10 minute stroll from the Docks are a variety of 2-5 bedroom homes.
To view an up-to-date list of available properties to buy and to rent in Gloucester Docks please search here.
For further information about living in Gloucester Docks call our docks branch on 01452 398010 or call in and see us in Barge Arm East.
Naylor Powell
Estate Agents l Letting Agents l Property Managers
Gloucester l Newent l Stonehouse
