Housing Details
Orchard Close in AL1 1JP boasts 27 mainly semi-detached, three-bedroom properties. Each property typically features a living room, dining room, kitchen, and an upstairs bathroom. The primary two bedrooms are spacious doubles, while the third functions best as a study or boxroom. For homeowners looking to expand, the loft presents an opportunity, with several properties already boasting additional bedrooms and ensuites.
These homes, with their brick and rendered facades, trace back to the late 1930s, encapsulating the architectural essence of the era.
Planning History
In the past decade, planning applications predominantly center around domestic extensions and loft conversions. The changes are made with a keen eye on preserving the unique street aesthetic and maintaining parking etiquette. Especially noteworthy is the rear of Numbers 5, 6, and 7, which lie adjacent to the former Midland and GNR Railway—now a cherished pathway, cycleway, and conservation area.
Garage Conversions
Though homeowners can convert garages, retaining the original garage door is often necessary. This ensures the visual harmony of Orchard Close remains undisturbed.
Parking Facilities
Parking in Orchard Close is systematically organized. Turning circles at both ends make vehicular movement effortless. Most houses possess front driveways, allowing off-street parking. Yet, during weekdays, a "CA" zone restriction limits parking to Resident Permit Holders between 10am-11am and 2pm-3pm. Overall, Orchard Close provides 15 designated parking spots. Note: This count does not include potential yellow line restrictions.
Local Traffic Insights
While St Albans sees slow-moving traffic, it's ideal to stay within walking or cycling reach of the station. Exiting the estate involves joining the bustling A1081 London Road via Colindale Avenue. Though there are double yellow lines at junctions with Hordle and Kenton Gardens, cars parked on the side of the road between these junctions cause tight spots where yielding to oncoming traffic might be necessary. Thankfully, the A1081, linking the city center to the North Orbital road, faces less congestion during rush hours.
Public Transport Access
If buses are your preference, the nearest stops are under a 10-minute walk on London Road. While St Albans City station is close in aerial distance, reaching it on foot involves a 1.5-mile journey. For those considering a city center visit, prepare for a 2-mile, 45-minute walk.
Rubbish Collection
Every Wednesday sees the collection of domestic and food waste, alternated weekly with recycling and paid green garden waste services.
Local Amenities
Residents have easy access to supermarkets, with Sainsburys and Morrisons just 6 and 7 minutes away by car, respectively. A 20-minute walk leads to a shopping parade on Cell Barnes Lane, hosting essential outlets like a fish and chip shop, post office, newsagent, and a Co-op convenience store.