North Neasden & Brent Reservoir
Known as a cosmopolitan suburb with an interesting history as a hub of research facilities, North Neasden continues to attract families looking for a more affordable and quiet alternative to Central London. While there aren’t many shops, restaurants or pubs in this part of the neighbourhood - the area is home to multiple attractions. Whether it’s bird watching at the beautiful Brent Reservoir and Neasden Recreation Park, or exploring Winston Churchill’s former bunker, there are plenty of fascinating sites to visit in the area. As for living in the neighbourhood, residents love the wonderful schooling options and modest but affordable semi detached 1920s houses. While the area might not have the same bustling energy as its neighbouring suburbs, residents are left more than satisfied with the tight knit community feeling and easy transport options.
This neighbourhood dates back to the 16th century when the Dalley family settled in the area. By the First World War, the area had transformed from a farming settlement into a suburban village, home to many Jewish Londoners leaving the East End. Their synagogue has since been converted into one of the many schools in the area. Later on, during WWII, the neighbourhood was home to one of Winston Churchill’s most top secret bunkers and war rooms. Today, the area is home to a diverse range of residents - from many different ethnic backgrounds.
This area was once home to the famous Post Office Research Station. This was where the Colossus Computer was built. Between 1943 and 1944, the computer was used to decipher the German Enigma.
This neighbourhood, unfortunately, is plagued with a busy thoroughfare. North Circular Road is a six lane highway that detracts from the area’s otherwise serene suburban feel. Still, neighbours are able to look past this in order to enjoy the area’s plethora of green space - like the Brent Reservoir and Neasden Recreation Ground.
While there isn’t much development going on at the moment in this neighbourhood, Brent Council began consultations in 2021 on plans for the Neasden Stations Growth Area (NSGA) Draft Masterplan. The Masterpan envisages the long-term transformation of the area with development on 5 sites including that of the College of North West London on Dudden Hill. There will be a total of 2,338 new homes plus commercial and light industrial spaces. The masterplan also involves public realm improvements and landscaping, as well as the development of new leisure spaces and residential amenities for different generations.