A 'QUALITY of life' survey conducted by Halifax estate agents has rated Waverley as the second most desirable rural area to live in Britain. The survey assessed a set of variables including employment levels, earnings, housing quality, weather, carbon emissions, crime, educational performance and health. In all, there are 117 local authorities considered to be rural. Waverley ranked below only Chiltern in Buckinghamshire, and the South East packed the list with seven districts in the top 10, and 32 in the top 50. Waverley residents do have to pay for such a high quality of life, however. The borough was also second in the average house price list, at £453,811 – 55 per cent above the regional average. Average earnings do compensate for this, with Waverley second on this list – average wages coming in at £728 per week. The survey was able to identify local authorities offering good value for money. Cherwell in Oxfordshire, and the New Forest both came high on the quality of life list but house prices in those districts were eight per cent below the regional average. "This research proves what those of us in the district already know – Waverley is a fantastic place to live and enjoy," said Waverley Borough Council leader Richard Gates. "We have magnificent towns and villages and exceptional areas of outstanding natural beauty that sets Waverley apart. "The Chiltern area is also a nice place – but I know where I'd rather be," he added. Waverley was also voted as the third best place to live in England by Channel 4's Location Location Location programme and now Waverley Council is itself launching a competition to find out which are the best places in Waverly itself. Residents will have the opportunity to vote for the best town or large village, the best village, and the best beauty spot. Voting begins on May 19, on the new look council website, to decide the shortlist, with the final vote and announcement of the winners taking place in early June.
