London 'Trendies' Blamed for Soaring Property Prices
Residents in the scenic seaside town of Westgate-on-Sea are expressing concern as they believe an influx of 'hipsters' from London is driving up house prices and pushing them out of their own community. The average property price has skyrocketed from £150,000 to £328,000 in just one year, according to property search firm Zoopla.
Exodus from the Capital Fuels the Boom
Locals attribute the rise in property prices to an exodus of people from London, a migration that has been expedited by the Covid-19 pandemic. Westgate-on-Sea is less than two hours away from London by car, making it an attractive destination for those looking to escape the city. The town is also conveniently located just ten minutes from Margate, another coastal town experiencing a revival in recent years.
Moving to Westgate-on-Sea: A Trendy Choice
Real estate agent Emma Edney, who recently relocated after living in Westgate for nine years, believes that the town's popularity with newcomers is due to its appeal to first-time buyers, home workers, and entrepreneurs. With remote work becoming more prevalent, people are eager to leave the city for a more affordable and relaxed coastal lifestyle. Edney states, "Why would you spend so much rent on London, have no parking or fresh air, when you can come down here, get a pet and work from home?"
Picturesque Town Attracts Rave Reviews
Westgate-on-Sea has also become highly regarded on travel review site TripAdvisor, where it boasts an impressive average rating of four and a half stars out of five. Visitors praise the town's cleanliness, stunning views, and tranquil atmosphere. One user describes it as "our haven" and "a secret little world." The town's beautiful beach and breathtaking sunsets are also repeatedly celebrated.
Concerns Echoed in Other Seaside Resorts
Westgate-on-Sea is not the only seaside town facing the challenges of rising property prices and potential displacement of long-standing residents. Similar concerns have been voiced in popular destinations such as Margate, Sidmouth, Bamburgh, Newquay, Falmouth, Padstow, Newport, Wells-next-the-Sea, Robin Hood's Bay, and The Witterings. As trendy districts in London lose their appeal, these picturesque coastal towns are becoming the go-to choice for those seeking a new way of life.
Despite the mounting pressure on housing affordability and the changing dynamics of these communities, there is no denying the allure of Westgate-on-Sea and other seaside towns. For now, residents must grapple with the consequences of their own town's growing popularity.
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https://hellofaread.com/money/millions-of-uk-households-eligible-for-bill-support-worth-hundreds-of-pounds/
