The Condor, Derby Derby DE1

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

Living at The Condor in Derby has been a mixed bag – a solid central spot with some urban perks, but not without its frustrations. I’ll break it down as requested. Local Shops, Restaurants, Bars & Open Spaces: The range is pretty good for a city centre location. You’ve got everything from budget supermarkets like Aldi and Sainsbury’s within a 10-minute walk, to boutique independents on nearby Iron Gate for fresh produce and quirky gifts. Quality-wise, it’s hit-and-miss: the chains are reliable, but some smaller spots feel a tad overpriced for what they offer. Restaurants and bars are a highlight – Derby’s got a vibrant scene with spots like The Flowerpot for live music and craft ales, or The Wonky Table for creative small plates (I’ve had some cracking vegan options there). Open spaces? Markeaton Park is a 15-minute cycle away for picnics and dog-walking, and the Derwent River paths are great for a quick stroll. Overall, convenient for variety, but it can feel crowded on weekends.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

The on-site team at The Condor has been consistently proactive and professional whenever I’ve raised an issue—whether through the resident app, email, or a quick chat in the lobby. Responses are prompt (usually within 24 hours), and follow-ups are thorough. For example, when I reported a flickering hallway light on my floor last month, it was replaced the same afternoon. A minor leak under the kitchen sink was fixed within 48 hours, complete with a courtesy text confirming the job was done and a quick check-in to ensure no further problems. Even during busier periods, like the recent lift refurb, communication was clear—advance notice posted in lifts and via email, with temporary solutions (like priority access for less-mobile residents) put in place. The team clearly logs everything; I’ve never had to chase a second time. A special thank you to Jane, who’s been an absolute star—always calm, approachable, and quick to resolve things with a smile. Whether it’s coordinating maintenance or just checking in after an issue, her attention to detail and genuine care make a real difference. The Condor wouldn’t feel as much like home without her.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

Parking at £100/ month is too expensive and not available most of the times. Otherwise, everything is perfect.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

Local shops are great, and its relatively safer compared to other areas - in terms of homeless people/ thieves. security is great.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Very well. Jaime and Jennifer have been very kind and helpful to me.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

None, I was well informed

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

The location of Granger is great. Walking distance is the Leeds city centre which has trains and coach services. For car - the M1 is 2 mins away. There is construction on one side but don’t really hear this much. There is underground parking for a fee but also a NPc car park opposite and on the street parking. There is a communal bin/recycle area which are sorted regularly.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

The portal app is great. The team are really quick to reply to messages/emails/requests.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

I wish the car parking shutter registered the number plate and auto opened.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

Excellent transport links! 129 free bus service, recently council has built the corridor near the DLR area which is a quiet way to relax. Constant airplane noise can be an issue due to close proximity with the city airport. Also theres an area with a tall wall because of the way Thames Barrier park has been built that has turned into a squash court. I often find myself waking up on a weekend due to the noise of the ball hitting the walls. Not a lot of grocery shops around - Sainsbury’s about 7 mins walk and Nisa local about 5 mins away

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Responded by offering a resolution. However the contractor availability timings often clash with usual working hours. So if a person is working full time, the maintenance visit would most likely have to be unattended by resident.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

Good: thames barrier park, DLR close, great balcony views, secure building access Bad: noise levels, constant rent increases, occasional hot water issues

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

Dlr is down every other weekend unfortunately. There are certainly more shops and amenaties and things to do.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Yes all problems have been attended to in a timely fashion.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

Honestly my friends lived in the area before so I already knew what to expect