THE majority of residents living in rented flats or terraced houses, a third of the population with no qualifications and an absence of “traditional” families.

That’s the outcome of a study into life in Thamesmead, north Bexley, which was carried out by two professors from Kent University.

Thamesmead was also revealed as a town affected by immigration and lacking a proper sense of identity.

The report commissioned by Trust Thamesmead, Gallions Housing Association and Tilfen Land outlines the problems experienced in the north of the borough and shapes a vision for Thamesmead in 10 years’ time.

It describes Thamesmead as “an odd mixture of neighbourhood and district shopping facilities”, which lack “a coherent identity”.

The report continues: “The growth in the West African population is affecting the character of some neighbourhoods as a result of short-term letting.

“The magnitude of this trend is difficult to determine. Many homes that appear owner-occupied are rented to recently arrived immigrants.”

Professor Richard Scase, who headed up the study, believes Thamesmead to be a town famous for its clock tower, but whose “spatial layout does not enhance the public life of the community”.

To counter this pessimistic and depressing view of the town, which became 40 years old this summer, is an inspiring wishlist, or “vision” for Thamesmead in 2016.

Bexley and Greenwich councils have now joined forces to prepare regeneration projects for the town that is split across two boroughs.

For more on this story see this week's Bexley Extra.