Traffic congestion in central London became so much of a problem that a charge was imposed on motorists using the area during peak periods. But where there is traffic crisis, there's opportunity. Colindale, the home of Beaufort Park, is well outside the toll zone and its public transport amenities are making the area increasingly attractive to buyers and those seeking an apartment less than 30 minutes away from all that central London offers: from banking and finance districts, to historic sites and the theatres of the West End. London mayor Boris Johnson has designated parts of Colindale for key planning improvements which include public transport links. Proposals include a light-rail system that will give residents easier access to nearby areas such as West Hampstead, Mill Hill, Hendon Police College, Golders Green, Finchley and Brent Cross. Underground rail users have to travel further south on either branch of the Northern Line and change trains, as there are no direct and convenient orbital routes. Nonetheless, Beaufort Park still benefits from an enhanced local bus service, bicycle storage facilities and its close proximity to Colindale Underground station on the Northern Line. Developer St George said a ?7 million (HK$86.6 million) redevelopment programme would also provide new rail bridges to allow double-decker bus access and the widening of Colindale's main road to improve pedestrian and cycle access. Beaufort Park also offers Streetcar, an innovative pay-as-you-go car club, which was the largest service of its type in Britain when it was launched. The club serves more than 25,000 members and offers environmentally friendly and sustainable travel for residents and the local community throughout London and across the country. 'Streetcar allows members to hire an eco-friendly Volkswagen Golf from as little as 30 minutes, to up to six months, and only pay for the time that they actually use. The use of Streetcar reduces the need for a private car, resulting in significant cost savings while also helping to reduce CO2 emissions,' a spokesman for the developer said. Ross Faragher, managing director, St George Central London, said: 'St George is committed to sustainable development and enhancing the quality of lives for people who live in and around our new communities. The eco-friendly Streetcar car club is an important aspect of our green travel agenda and we are delighted to be able to launch this initiative at Beaufort Park.'
