Investors And Canvey

Click to see enlargement

It is often a problem how best to invest a little hard-earned surplus—the result, it may be, of years of toil, by some successful in life’s struggle.

Some in trade, others in house property, and not a few (more carefully minded) in Govern­ment stock, invest their spare capital.

Then, added to these—and their number is greatly increasing—are those who seek larger issues in purchase of land, buying where and when the price is comparatively low, in places where, according to their judgment, there is probability of development and consequent improvement in the value of such land.

It is found in general practice that plots near the water side, having a beach or sandy sea shore, is land most likely to come into favour, and the first, to develop into a health or holiday resort.

It is true, however, there are other considera­tions which make for improvement in value, i.e., character of soil, sheltered or exposed situations, good or indifferent water supply for drinking purposes. But, generally speaking other things being equal, water-side attractions are potent factors in the enhancement of the value of land— i.e., plots for residential building purposes.

Having set up this standard, let us now observe how Canvey comes out in comparison therewith.

Notwithstanding the land is flat, it seems well-drained by an elaborate system of dykes, finally emptying by an optional outflow to the sea.

Very true it is there has been a lack of means of transit across the Island—this, however, as will be seen from our report elsewhere, is now likely to be a thing of the past. In this, as also other needs, with demand there comes supply.

Granted that these and other minor matters operate against it, yet, in consideration of its several unique and peculiar attractions, it is likely, in the language of the Yankee philoso­pher, to “go ahead.”

Be it observed, however, we do not say it will compare with Southend.

For obvious reasons it will not be the rendez­vous of the East-end tripper, nor is a large per­manent population likely to be its boast

Canvey appeals to those of a different dispo­sition, and attracts a distinctly different class.

It is to those who wish for healthy surround­ings, opportunities of quiet restful residence, together with the study of nature, that the Island most appeals.

The day tripper is almost unknown, of week­enders probably some few, yet the bulk of its population seems likely to be owners of bungalows.

The Londoner loves the Island, the City man finds change herein, and its very contrast seems its charm.

Judging from its present line of development, Canvey is not likely, nor is it wanted to be, a London-by-the Sea.

Finally, be it noted, the development in the future is likely to be much more rapid than it has been in the past. True certain estates have made some show: to name the Shell Beach portion, for instance—where four years ago an open house­less space appeared, there are now some fifty bungalows, and more in course of progress.

To those, therefore, who have watched its de­velopment, its days of check as well as “boom,” it appeares that, coupled with an influx of capital, with a wise administration therein, there is a hopeful future for Canvey.