Introduction
Clayton Park is a triangular-shaped subdivision in Halifax that consists of the area north of Glenforest Drive, between Dunbrack Street and Lacewood Drive. This is a culturally diverse, upper-middle-class neighbourhood composed of single- and multi-family dwellings, small apartment buildings, and upscale condominiums. The community's quick access to the 102 and the Bedford Highway is ideal for commuters.
Lifestyle
Originally developed in the 1960s as a suburban alternative to the downtown core, Clayton Park began with an eye towards larger, modern-styled homes. As the population grew, so did retail development like the nearby Bayer’s Lake Business Park, which helped create an interesting mix of commercial and residential spaces. The Clayton Park West extension was added in the 1990s, and this is home to the province’s fastest urban growth.
The Vibe
Life in Clayton Park is a fascinating combination of residential and commercial elements. There are large trees lining streets full of detached single-family homes, creating an atmosphere of idyllic suburban living. The nearby big box stores of Bayer’s Lake provide tons of options for shopping, and there’s an ever-expanding slate of retail development. Clayton Park offers a solid balance of convenience and tranquility.
Meet the Neighbours
Clayton Park is often considered one of Halifax’s most diverse neighbourhoods. It’s home to a wide variety of cultures from around the world and its increasing diversity keeps the neighbourhood lively. A strong school system makes the area popular for families, while its proximity to major highways is favoured amongst the area’s working professionals who need to commute to work.
In the Area
From the numerous schools in the area, like Duc D’Anville Elementary and <a href="http://www.cpjh.ednet.ns.ca/" target="_blank">Clayton Park Junior High</a>, to the abundance of green spaces such as the nearby <a href="http://www.halifaxtrails.ca/index_files/Belchers.htm" target="_blank">Belchers Marsh Park</a>, this community offers a lot for local families. There’s also the <a href="http://canadagamescentre.ca/" target="_blank">Canada Games Centre</a> close at hand for swimming pools, running tracks, and a fitness centre.
7.7 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Commuting by car is easy within Clayton Park, as access to the 102 and Bedford Highways can be reached within minutes, and the trip to the onramp for the 103 toward the South Shore isn’t much longer. Public transit options exist but are found outside of the residential areas, relegated to the major throughways like Lacewood Drive and Dunbrack Street.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
What started as a quiet, residential suburb in the 1960s has since grown to a considerable commercial hotspot. While some residents laud the prestige that comes with such development, others complain that such construction creates noise disruptions. And with such an abundance of major retail spaces, the personal characteristics of the community sometimes feel like they are being overshadowed by commercial spaces.
Dollars & Sense
Initially conceived as an upper-middle-class neighbourhood, Clayton Park remains a moderately priced community. The large chain retailers of Bayer’s Lake provide a variety of options, but prices are what you would expect from big stores like <a href="http://www.homeoutfitters.com/" target="_blank">Home Outfitters</a> and <a href="http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/" target="_blank">Chapters</a>. Residents might be classified as being closer to a Starbucks culture than Tim Horton’s.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Northcliffe Tennis Club
This family-operated club in Clayton Park offers a variety of programs and services tailored to tennis fans of all skill sets. Their friendly lessons provide a great way to break into the game.
more infoSushi Nami Royale
One of three locations within Halifax, this Clayton Park Sushi Nami Royale offers up an amazing Japanese dining experience at a very affordable price. Takeout service is also available for when you’re on the run.
more infoKeshen Goodman Public Library
Designed to promote a bright and airy experience, the Keshen Goodman Public Library is a little oasis in Clayton Park. There’s a great selection of titles available and the space attracts a huge community following.
more infoCanada Games Centre
Built as a part of the 2011 Winter Canada Games, this recreation centre is open to the public and promotes fitness and healthy living to the community through some amazing programs and classes.
more infoBelchers Marsh Park
Easily accessible from Clayton Park, Belchers Marsh is a 2.5-kilometre trail of woodlands and wetlands. The marshes and ponds provide an excellent opportunity for area residents to get in some bird and duck watching.
more infoThe Last Gamestore
This locally-owned video game store is full of new and used games. Residents come here for the vintage consoles and the wide-ranging selection of video game-related merchandise and geeky goodness.
more info