Introduction
Just inside of South Surrey territory, Rosemary Heights West is a newer suburb that has been built west of 152nd Street between 32nd and 36th Avenue. Highway 99 forms its other boundary, but a natural ridge along the northwest means the traffic is mainly seen from above, and seldom heard.
Lifestyle
Rosemary Heights West has mostly been developed since 2000, so it has a master planned feeling to it. There’s a little of everything from homes on quiet cul-de-sacs to gated townhouse complexes and low-rise condos, all connected by a network of walking paths. It’s designed so you could stroll to the neighbourhood shops, but people here are just as likely to hop in the family SUV.
The Vibe
A serene suburban enclave, Rosemary Heights West is close to major streets—a plus for commuters—yet there isn’t much through traffic and it’s convenient to a variety of familiar name-brand stores and restaurants. At the same time, it’s the sort of place where kids could play hockey in the street or explore the outdoors on their bikes.
Meet the Neighbours
Though “posh” doesn’t spring to mind, the neighbours are solidly middle to upper-middle class. In fact, in the 2006 census, Rosemary Heights was, somewhat surprisingly, revealed to be one of the richest neighbourhoods in Metro Vancouver in terms of median income. Residents’ median income was $44,301, more than double the figure for Metro Vancouver as a whole ($20,754).
In the Area
Just across 152nd St. are Morgan Creek Elementary and a neighbourhood shopping centre with a daycare, restaurant, convenience store and services. For serious retail therapy, you can hit the stores at Morgan Crossing or Southpoint Exchange—or across the U.S. border. For sports and outdoor enthusiasts there’s Softball City and several golf courses, as well as Crescent Beach, the Semiahmoo Trail and Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest.
17 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Rosemary Heights West is served by major roads on three sides, including a nearby entrance/exit to Highway 99 for the commute to Vancouver and bus service along 152nd Street. It’s an easy neighbourhood to get around by walking or cycling, as it’s fairly flat and the network of paths includes a pedestrian overpass over Highway 99.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Surrey is growing at an incredible pace – according to the 2011 census, about three times the national average (18.9 per cent population increase since 2006, versus 5.9 per cent). That means ongoing construction and traffic on the road when you’re trying to reach all the great amenities in the area. And though arts programs for kids are abundant, you’ll not find much local nightlife past their bedtime.
Dollars & Sense
A South Surrey address does come at a premium, compared to areas of the city to the north and east. The shopping and dining options in the general area reflect upscale sensibilities, from famed restaurateur Vikram Vij’s Morgan Crossing outpost, My Shanti, to chains like The Keg and Cactus Club.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Potters
Walk to this location of the popular garden centre to find plants, garden decor, tools and everything else for a beautiful yard.
more infoPioneer Overpass and Rosemary Heights Park
Take a stroll and enjoy the view from the pedestrian overpass over the highway, which connects a beautiful park, neighbourhood greenways and shops on the other side.
more infoJimmy Flynn’s Celtic Snug
Jimmy Flynn’s brings the Irish pub experience to South Surrey. In addition to Guinness, whiskey and Celtic comfort food, it also has local craft beers, cider and wine on tap.
more infoCreative Kids Learning Center
This preschool/daycare facility offers a variety of programs in a bright, colourful learning environment and is in a convenient location for Rosemary Heights parents.
more infoTap Restaurant
Bringing city sophistication to South Surrey, this neighbourhood restaurant specializes in French-influenced dishes using locally sourced ingredients and offers an extensive wine list.
more infoThe Keg Steakhouse and Bar
The South Surrey location of B.C.’s favourite restaurant for steaks and Keg-sized cocktails is on 32nd Avenue, walking distance from Rosemary Heights.
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