Is Kitts Green a Nice Place to Live?

Kitts Green, in the eastern part of Birmingham, is one of those places that people either love or feel quite neutral about. It’s not the most picturesque area in the West Midlands, but for those who call it home, it has its own unique charm. It’s situated conveniently near the city centre, making it a suitable spot for both families and professionals. However, it does have its drawbacks which we will explore in this honest assessment.

Is Kitts Green safe?

When it comes to safety, Kitts Green has its ups and downs. Like any urban area, it does experience crime. Public opinion varies; some residents feel perfectly safe while others are more cautious. Certain spots, like around the petrol station and parking areas, are known hotspots for petty crimes such as shoplifting. But on the whole, the area isn’t plagued by high crime rates compared to some other parts of Birmingham. It’s always a good idea to be cautious and stay aware of your surroundings, but you won’t feel as if you’re living in a den of thieves.

Is Kitts Green a nice place to live for families?

For families, Kitts Green has its fair share of positives and a few drawbacks. Let’s break it down.

Schools

The local education options are quite decent. There are a couple of outstanding primary schools like Lea Forest Primary Academy and The Shirestone Academy, which have excellent reputations. However, the area lacks outstanding secondary schools, which might push parents to look at options a bit further afield. Tile Cross Academy and Grace Academy Solihull are good, but competition for places can be tough.

Parks and Playgrounds

The green spaces in and around Kitts Green are quite pleasant. Parks like Meadway Park and Lea Village Play Park offer great spots for kids to let off steam. Regular family outings to these parks can make weekends much more enjoyable, giving families a fun and free way to spend time together.

Family Activities

As for activities, the community vibe here is friendly. While there are no big, flashy family attractions right on the doorstep, plenty of community events and local clubs provide good opportunities for families to get involved and meet others.

Is Kitts Green expensive?

In terms of property prices, Kitts Green offers a bit of a mixed bag. The overall average house price sits around £210,000. Semi-detached houses tend to be the priciest, averaging £230,000, whilst terraced houses and flats are more affordable at around £195,000 and £115,000 respectively. Renting is also quite reasonable, with one-bedroom flats starting at £550 and three-bedroom houses at £1200.

Compared to some neighbouring areas like Stechford and Yardley, Kitts Green is slightly more affordable. The proximity to the centre, combined with relatively lower property prices, makes it a practical option for many first-time buyers and renters.

What transport links are there?

Transport links in Kitts Green are quite decent. Regular bus routes connect residents to Birmingham city centre and other nearby areas. The road network is also fairly efficient, with the M6 and A45 nearby for those who commute by car. For train users, Stechford station is the nearest, providing quick access to central Birmingham and beyond. Overall, getting around from Kitts Green is pretty straightforward.

What amenities are available in Kitts Green?

Amenities in Kitts Green cover most daily needs. There are several supermarkets like Lidl and Bains Supermarket for groceries. If you fancy a takeaway, you’ve got options ranging from fast food at McDonald’s to more local flavours at Wall Street Burgers and Village Fish Bar.

For a drink, Sheldon Hall and Garretts Green Sports Bar are popular spots. Healthcare is well catered for with a number of GP surgeries, pharmacies, and a couple of post offices. Other services include gyms, hair salons, and barber shops, making day-to-day life quite convenient.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

If you’re someone who enjoys the outdoors, Kitts Green has some nice options nearby. Kingfisher Country Park is a lovely spot for walks and picnics, while Shard End Park and Tile Cross Park are also great for a leisurely stroll or a bit of casual exercise. These green spaces offer a pleasant escape from the urban hustle and bustle, adding to the area’s overall livability.

So, what’s the verdict?

To sum it up, Kitts Green has its strengths and weaknesses. It’s a reasonably priced area with good transport links and essential amenities. While safety can be a concern in certain spots, it’s not overwhelming. For families, the school situation is decent, but not spectacular. The nearby green spaces add a touch of nature that’s always welcome. All in all, it’s a practical area to live in, especially if you’re looking for affordability and convenience.

What are the alternatives?

If Kitts Green doesn’t tick all your boxes, nearby areas like Yardley and Stechford might be worth considering. Yardley offers a bit more in terms of shopping and dining options, while Stechford has better transport links. Both areas, however, come with slightly higher property prices. On the other hand, if you’re looking for more green spaces and a quieter environment, Marston Green could be an interesting alternative, albeit with a higher price tag.

In the end, it all boils down to what you’re looking for in a place to live. Kitts Green may not be perfect, but it certainly has its unique charm and practical benefits.