A guide to living in Borough of Barnet

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

The area around The Maple is very convenient, especially for getting into Central London quickly. Transport links are strong, and it feels well connected without being overwhelmingly busy. The neighbourhood itself is still developing, which is exciting, but it does mean there are currently fewer cafés, restaurants and pubs than you would expect in a more established London area. Hopefully that improves over time as more businesses move in. The streets are generally clean and quiet, and the overall atmosphere feels safe and family friendly. For families especially, the newer developments and open spaces are a big positive.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Overall, the building management team has been responsive and helpful whenever issues have been raised. The development is still relatively new, so some processes, particularly around booking facilities, do not yet feel completely smooth or fully established. That said, concerns are acknowledged quickly and the team generally does make an effort to resolve things in a professional manner.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

Because I was one of the first residents to move into the development, I did not realise how far behind schedule some parts of the building still were at the time. Many of the facilities that were advertised were not yet available when I moved in, which was disappointing initially. That said, things have improved steadily over time, and it is worth understanding that with a brand new development there can be delays while everything becomes fully operational. My advice to new residents would be to ask specifically about which facilities are already open and fully functioning before moving in, rather than relying only on projected timelines.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

The design of the building, apartment and amenities are simply the best! The traffic noise is not noticeable from the apartment (if you have your windows closed). The local shops are great - exactly what you need! It's a safe environment for families. It is also close to the biggest police academy.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Matt is exceptional at handling queries quickly and pragmatically — always on point and consistently kind in his approach. Andreea has been fantastic: empathetic, clear in her communication, and incredibly supportive in helping ensure we have the comfort we were looking for. Erelinda is a true professional who manages the building with great efficiency, and her clear communication always makes us feel we’re in safe hands. Cameron has also been wonderful — extremely approachable, he helped us understand the complexities behind the building’s construction, managed expectations thoughtfully, and clearly has a real passion for delivering a place tenants will love. We’re genuinely grateful to have met such a dedicated and professional team. Their expertise and care have made our experience as tenants truly outstanding.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

If I knew about this place sooner, I would have come earlier - yet this is a 2026 building so : not much I could have done earlier :)

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

The area is a nice area, local to everything: 1. The shops 2. The train station 3. The schools It's a nice area with lots of trees.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

To be honest, very quickly, once we did ask for any help with anything, they responded and got someone out straight away.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

I wish I would have known about the doors. The main doors should definitely be soundproof; they should make them soundproof anyway, just to complete that subtle, quiet feeling.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

The Draper is in a great location. Bus services are just on the main road and Colindale tube is 10 minute walk. There is a Tesco local just 5 minutes walk away and larger supermarkets just a few minutes by car. Life in the building itself is very quiet. The local area is also very peaceful and the park on the estate is lovely. I feel very safe and haven’t experienced any anti social behaviour.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

We had an issue with our washing machine and the maintenance team were very quick to respond. The appropriate professionals attended. The issue was resolved very satisfactorily and with minimal disruption to myself.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

I haven’t experienced any downside as yet. I don’t think I will. I’m very happy here and very pleased to have been able to secure an appartment.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

The area Living at The Draper, Colindale (NW9 4GR) is convenient with good local amenities. Shops and supermarkets are nearby, plus easy access to Brent Cross Shopping Centre. Transport is strong, with Colindale Station on the London Underground giving quick links into central London, though it gets busy at peak times. The area is generally quiet and modern, but parking can be limited and there’s occasional traffic or construction noise.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

yes, very responsive and very friendly to deal with everything.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

Shops are quite far and limited , have to travel to go to the supermarket.