Canary Wharf

The security helps make this area half decent, and there don't seem to be phone or bike thieves around, which is a luxury in London. But the cycling is awful, with no cycle lanes anywhere. Phone reception is terrible across multiple networks, and Canary Wharf WiFi is so bad you can't get anything done. During the day you can't even make a reliable WhatsApp call or get cellular service in the heart of the area on Three or Vodafone, apparently because buildings block the masts. More infrastructure seems the obvious fix for a business area that needs these basics.

It'll be interesting to see Canary Wharf Group revamp the tower and try to bring workers back after companies such as Clifford Chance move out. During the 'noughties', they ran the estate with a ruthless hand and gradually squeezed out motorcycle parking until riders had to fight for spaces. They said motorcycles were an ugly blight on the cityscape. Wardens even removed bikes parked on the yellow motorcycle-parking crosshatch beside lampposts, over a breach of a few inches. I was one of those people. It was sheer tyranny because they could do it. I lost track of my motorbike and had to buy another for £2k. I couldn't find where they'd towed the old one, so it was forfeited, even though its book value was at least £700 and I needed transport. Now they must wish workers would come back, and are even trying to tempt motorcycles back to spoil their cityscape. It must look so tidy without those messy workers. Hybrid workers returning to Canary Wharf: don't step on paving cracks, dress smartly, and don't linger on those lovely grassy patches. Wouldn't want you messing up that fine cityscape!

The gym and spa aren't maintained properly either. Worms were found in the pool, and there were nail clippings around its edge. Complaints go unanswered. The block has poor build quality and bathroom design flaws throughout, but no one takes responsibility. Canary Wharf Group never responds, and Scott Nicholas was responsible for a design flaw. It feels like there may be a cover-up. Avoid buying from them, including their new development at 7 Belvedere Road.

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