Northwest Langley and Walnut Grove offer everything from industrial, commercial, retail and residential. The area is located between the railway line north of 96th Avenue and Highway 1 to the south. The eastern edge runs from Highway 1 up 216th Street, turning at 88th Avenue and runs along the edge of the Redwoods Golf Course to 96th Avenue.
The northwest corner of Langley is a study in contrasts: neat, landscaped suburban homes line street after street west of 201st Street, but adjacent to this well-planned residential neighbourhood are large retail stores along 200th Street and 88th Avenue and business park/industrial properties to the west. And bordering the north side of Walnut Grove, there is agricultural land where crops are grown and cows graze in the fields.
Even though Walnut Grove and Northwest Langley may cater to car culture, residents are active and the neighbourhood offers great opportunities for walking and cycling. Trails meander through the area for short walks with the doge, and those in the mood for a cycle can head north to Derby Reach, a regional park along the Fraser River.
Of the almost 28,000 people living in Walnut Grove and Northwest Langley, the majority are English speakers, according to the 2011 Census. The average age is slightly lower in Walnut Grove, compared to the national average, and the area is especially attractive for active families who want to be near recreational facilities.
Shopping, schools, recreation facilities, parks for people and dogs, trails and playing fields – the northwest corner of Langley has it all. Residential areas are surrounded by stores and restaurants - albeit many just serve fast food. Walnut Grove Secondary and Walnut Grove Community Centre comprise the major components of the area’s recreational facilities, which also include a spray park, a community garden and playing fields.
Walnut Grove and Northwest Langley are typically commuter communities and residents bemoan the fact that there isn’t much transit service. But for those commuting east or west, the neighbourhood is next to an entrance to Highway One and close to the Golden Ears Bridge going north to Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows and the Tri-Cities.
Home life in Walnut Grove and Northwest Langley with large lots, well-planned streets and a plethora of walking opportunities can be idyllic, but to get in and out of the community will cost you. Two major bridges nearby are tolled and driving in and out can get costly. Transit has not kept pace with population growth and therefore many don’t feel it’s a viable option for their commute.
Although some areas of Walnut Grove and Northwest Langley are seeing prices climbing rapidly, the area is especially attractive for middle-class, middle-income families. The shops in the area, lots of fast-food franchises and big-box retail stores cater to those with average budgets. Those looking for specialty shops and cafes can head a few kilometres east to historic Fort Langley.
Walnut Grove Community Park has amenities for residents of all ages, including a spray park for toddlers, a skatepark for teens and tennis courts, baseball diamonds, a track and soccer pitches for all ages.
more infoResidents who don’t have a large enough yard to plant a garden can apply for a spot at the Walnut Grove Community Garden so they can grow flowers or food in their own plot.
more infoWalnut Grove Community Centre houses both a public library and recreational facilities, including a pool, fitness centre, gyms and meeting rooms. There is also a licensed preschool and a café.
more infoDerby Reach Regional Park is a quick drive or a leisurely cycle from Northwest Langley. This park along the Fraser River has a large dog park, picnic areas and a campground.
more infoJames Kennedy Park is just one park in this green neighbourhood and it is located next to an elementary school. Langley parks are often co-located with other facilities to ensure use by community groups.
more infoWhile many smaller movie theatres are closing down, large multiplexes are still viable and Colossus Cineplex in Walnut Grove has a cinema with several large screens, an IMAX screen and 3D screens.
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