Electrification of the trains in 1956 and the Railway Stations' redevelopment about the same time, accelerated Billericay's growth into a popular dormitory town for London.
The Townsend Estate was one of the early estates built within short walking distance of the Station to take the wave of new commuters.
Right next to the estate is the Cricket Pitch of Lake Meadows Park, a footpath from Knightbridge Walk taking you past the Cricket Green and Swimming Pool and on to the Car Park of Lake Meadows - 40 acres of rolling parkland centred around the lake Lake.
City Commuters on the estate like to take this pleasant route on their way to the Railway Station - a nice easy 10 -12 minute stroll.
The estate has three entrances off Perry Street. Perry Street itself with local shops at either end. A Sainsburys 'Local', a Newsagent, well stocked Off Licence, Butchers and a couple of takeaways at the South end and Queens Park Neighbourhood Shopping Centre at the North end, which includes a Co-op Supermarket.
The are also two pubs at either end if education is a high priority, Brightside Primary School is within walking distance too - 0.5 mile or under from all three entrances.
