London Road Neighbourhood

Lethbridge, AB

Neighbourhood

Developed between the late nineteenth century and early twentieth century, the London Road Neighbourhood is one of the most well established neighbourhoods in Lethbridge and is centrally located adjacent to Downtown. London Road is home to over 3,500 residents, and this population has remained very stable throughout the years due to a good balance of post-secondary students, young families, and senior citizens.

Being located near Downtown, all necessary amenities, from shopping to restaurants to public services are within a short walking distance from anywhere within the neighbourhood. In addition, streets are laid out on a grid pattern making the neighbourhood favourable for all forms of transportation. Residents enjoy a rich urban forest with many mature boulevard trees and parks containing playgrounds, picnic shelters and tennis courts.

London Road contains an appropriate mix of housing types, consisting of single-family homes, duplexes, townhouses, apartments, seniors’ housing, and secondary suites that cater to all income levels. A few small commercial enterprises are also contained within the neighbourhood.

The London Road Neighbourhood Association is the most engaged neighbourhood association in the city and is very active both politically and within the community. The Neighbourhood Association sponsors a number of events, such as Christmas tours of the historic Annandale residence and tours of neighbourhood gardens during springtime.

An Area Redevelopment Plan for the neighbourhood has been in existence for 30 years. This plan has provided the neighbourhood with stability and guidance, as it has permitted new, higher intensity development to occur in select areas of the neighbourhood, while maintaining the neighbourhood’s overall integrity and character.

Architecture within the neighbourhood consists of Queen Anne, Georgian and Craftsman style homes, and buildings in this area are meticulously cared for and restored, ensuring that the neighbourhood retains its character yet sustains a high level of re-investment. For these reasons, "This Old House Online" featured London Road as one of “Canada’s Best Old House Neighbourhoods” in 2011.

London Road has been home to a number of the city’s early founders and buildings of significance. As such, a number of sites in London Road have been designated as provincial or municipal historical resources. Having this historical designation has ensured that these properties are protected from inappropriate alterations and can obtain grants to assist in the cost of preservation.

The London Road Neighbourhood is a significant part of Lethbridge's history and a vibrant part of its future.