Central-West, Durham

Central West in Belleville, Ontario, is a friendly neighbourhood that's ideal for families and professionals alike. The area is known for its peaceful streets, like Moira Street West and Bridge Street West, lined with beautiful trees and well-kept homes. Residents love spending time at local parks such as West Riverside Park and the Riverfront Trail, which are perfect for walking, biking, or enjoying a picnic with friends and family. Plus, it’s only a short drive or bus ride away from downtown Belleville, where you can visit local favourites like The Brake Room café or the Belleville Farmers’ Market for fresh produce and baked goods.

One of the best things about the Central West is its strong sense of community. The neighbourhood has a welcoming, small-town feel, where neighbours know each other and often participate in local events at Centennial Secondary School or the Quinte Sports & Wellness Centre. Families with kids appreciate the nearby schools, including Queen Victoria School, which is known for its friendly teachers and active parent community. Getting around is easy, with reliable public transit and quick access to Highway 401, making commutes to places like Trenton or Prince Edward County simple and stress-free.

In terms of real estate, Central West has something for everyone. Along streets like George Street, you’ll find charming older homes with character and modern new builds that offer a more contemporary feel. Homes here are more affordable than in bigger cities like Kingston or Toronto, making Central West a popular choice for people looking to settle down.

Central West has an impressive livability score of 71/100, which reflects its excellent quality of life. The neighbourhood's crime rate is 2% higher than the Belleville average, but it remains a safe place to live. Additionally, the cost of living in Central West is slightly lower, coming in at 1% less than the Belleville average.

Below is a detailed table of the various factors that contribute to the livability score of Central West:

Central West's crime rates are notably higher than the provincial and national averages. The overall crime rate in the Central West is 18% higher than the national average, and violent crime is 23% higher. Residents in Central West face a 1 in 21 chance of being a victim of crime, but it's important to note that Central West is still safer than 12% of cities in Ontario. Additionally, crime in Belleville has seen a year-over-year decrease of 20%, indicating efforts to improve safety in the area.

Central West has a significantly higher population density, 590% greater than that of Belleville, indicating a more densely populated area. The median age in Central West is 6% higher than that of Belleville, reflecting a slightly older population. Regarding diversity, 2.70% of the population in the Central West is of South Asian descent, 2.22% is Chinese, and 1.18% is Latin American, adding to the multicultural fabric of the community.

In the Central West, the median household income is 14% lower than the national average, sitting at a modest level compared to other regions. However, the unemployment rate in the Central West is notably 44% lower than the national average, indicating a strong job market with only 3.6% of the population unemployed. Additionally, 4.6% of people in the area earn $20,000 or less annually, while 12.1% earn between $80,000 and $100,000. A small but notable 0.6% of the population earns $300,000 or more, reflecting a diverse range of income levels within the community.

Central West is surrounded by several well-known neighbourhoods, offering a variety of living environments and amenities:

• West End
• East Hill
• Old East Hill
• Parkdale
• Quinte West

Schools

Central West is home to several reputable schools, making it an ideal area for families with children:

• Queen Victoria School
• Centennial Secondary School
• Sir John A. Macdonald Public School
• Nicholson Catholic College
• Prince of Wales Public School

Restaurants

For dining out, Central West residents have easy access to a wide range of restaurants offering diverse cuisines:

• The Boathouse Seafood Restaurant
• Paulo’s Italian Trattoria
• Capers
• The Lark
• Burger Revolution

Shopping Malls

Shopping enthusiasts in Central West can enjoy several shopping centres nearby, providing access to major retailers and services:

• Quinte Mall
• Bell Front Centre
• Bay View Mall
• North Front Centre

Hospitals

Healthcare needs are well-covered with several hospitals and healthcare facilities in and around Central West:

• Belleville General Hospital
• Quinte Health Care
• Trenton Memorial Hospital (nearby in Quinte West)

Here are the top five things to do in Central West, offering a mix of natural beauty, history, and adventure:

Blue Mountains National Park

The Blue Mountains National Park is a must-see destination in Central West, known for its breathtaking natural beauty. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site with dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and eucalyptus forests. Visitors can explore popular hiking trails like the Three Sisters Walk and enjoy stunning views from Echo Point Lookout. Scenic World adds to the adventure with the world’s steepest passenger railway, Skyway, and Cableway, providing panoramic views of the park.

Jenolan Caves

Jenolan Caves is one of the world’s oldest and most spectacular cave systems. Visitors can take guided tours through iconic caves such as the Lucas Cave and the Temple of Baal Cave, where breathtaking limestone formations await. For adventure enthusiasts, there are more thrilling experiences in the form of adventure caving. Afterwards, relax with a scenic walk along the Jenolan River, surrounded by peaceful natural beauty.

Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo

Dubbo is home to the famous Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Australia’s largest open-range zoo. This family-friendly destination allows visitors to experience wildlife from across the globe in a natural, spacious setting. For a truly unforgettable experience, visitors can stay overnight at the Zoofari Lodge, offering a unique and immersive way to enjoy the zoo and its surroundings.

Central West offers diverse attractions and activities that cater to all interests, from rich historical experiences to hidden natural gems. Whether you're keen on adventure, culture, or relaxation, here are five exciting things to do in the region:

Take in the Views at Govetts Leap Lookout

If you’re looking for an alternative to the more popular spots in the Blue Mountains, head to Govetts Leap Lookout. This lesser-known viewpoint offers equally stunning vistas of waterfalls and dramatic cliffs with fewer crowds. It’s an excellent spot for photography, and if you're feeling adventurous, the nearby Govetts Leap descent is a challenging yet rewarding hiking trail that leads deep into the Grose Valley.

Marvel at Mayfield Garden

Just a short drive from the hustle of Jenolan Caves, Mayfield Garden is one of the largest privately-owned cool climate gardens in the world. This expansive, beautifully landscaped garden features a variety of themed sections, including a water garden and a maze. It's a peaceful retreat where visitors can explore the grounds, picnic by the lake, and enjoy seasonal events like garden festivals and workshops.

Explore Hill End Historic Village

For history enthusiasts, Hill End offers a fascinating glimpse into Australia’s gold rush era. This preserved historic village allows you to return in time with its heritage buildings and mining relics. You can visit the Hill End Heritage Centre, explore old gold mines, or even try panning for gold. The village also offers several walking trails with scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

Food and Wine Adventure in Orange

While Orange is known for its wines, its burgeoning food scene makes it a must-visit for foodies. The local farmers' markets are a great place to start, where you can pick up fresh produce and artisanal goods. Follow up with a visit to some of the area’s top restaurants like Lolli Redini or Charred Kitchen, which showcase creative, seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Many wineries also offer gourmet tasting experiences where food is paired perfectly with wine.

Outdoor Adventure at Warrumbungle National Park

For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Warrumbungle National Park near Dubbo. This park offers incredible opportunities for outdoor activities like rock climbing, camping, and bushwalking. The park is also famous for its stargazing, thanks to its low light pollution and clear skies, making it one of the best spots in Australia for astronomy. The Siding Spring Observatory is nearby, where you can learn about the southern hemisphere’s stars and planets.

• Belleville Airport: 10 km
• Belleville Railway Station: 5 km
• Belleville General Hospital: 4 km
• Quinte Mall: 3 km
• Queen Victoria School: 2 km
• Centennial Secondary School: 2.5 km
• Downtown Belleville: 3 km
• West Riverside Park: 2 km
• The Empire Theatre: 3.5 km
• Zwick's Centennial Park: 4.5 km

Central West is home to lively markets offering a delightful mix of fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and unique finds. These markets serve as cultural hubs where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy the best of the region’s offerings. Here’s a closer look at some of the popular markets in the area.

Bathurst Farmers Market

Held at the Bathurst Showground, the Bathurst Farmers Market is a must-visit for anyone looking to sample the region’s freshest produce. Operating monthly, this market offers a variety of locally sourced fruits, vegetables, artisanal cheeses, meats, and honey. Visitors can expect to meet local farmers and producers, giving their shopping experience a personal touch. Specialities here include organic produce, homemade jams, and locally roasted coffee, making it a haven for food enthusiasts.

Mudgee Fine Foods Farmers’ Market

Taking place in Robertson Park, Mudgee, this market is a gourmet food lover’s dream. Running on the third Saturday of every month, the Mudgee Fine Foods Farmers’ Market showcases the finest regional wines, farm-fresh products, and gourmet foods. In addition to the delectable produce, the market also features a variety of handcrafted items such as jewellery, candles, and pottery, making it an ideal spot for picking up unique gifts. Some of the market's specialities include Mudgee wines, artisan chocolates, and olive oils.

Orange Farmers Market

Located at Northcourt in Orange, the Orange Farmers Market is a local favourite, offering the best seasonal produce the region has to offer. Known for its apples, cherries, pears, and root vegetables, this market is a go-to destination for fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables. It’s also a popular spot for dairy products, honey, and handmade craft items. Whether you’re looking for baked goods or farm-fresh dairy, the Orange Farmers Market has something for everyone.

Dubbo Rotunda Markets

The Dubbo Rotunda Markets, held at the iconic Dubbo Rotunda on Macquarie Street, is a marketplace filled with regional crafts, fashion, art, and street food. Taking place monthly, this market is a fantastic spot for finding unique souvenirs or one-of-a-kind handmade gifts. Visitors can browse through stalls offering handmade jewellery, vintage clothing, and local art, making it a vibrant shopping destination for both locals and tourists.

Central West is a small community with a unique demographic profile compared to the larger Belleville region and Ontario as a whole. Here’s a snapshot of key statistics highlighting the area’s population dynamics and household structure.

Here are some family-friendly activities in Central West where both kids and pets can have an enjoyable day out:

1. Visit a Park for a Hike

A great place to explore nature with the family is the Blue Mountains, which offers child-friendly hiking trails like the Scenic Railway and Echo Point Lookout. These trails offer stunning views that both kids and adults will love. Pets are welcome on select trails, such as the Princes Rock Walking Track, making it easy to bring your dog along for the adventure—just remember to keep them on a leash.

2. Enjoy a Day by the Lake

Lake Canobolas in Orange is perfect for a fun day out. Families can take advantage of the playground, enjoy a picnic in one designated area, or even swim in the lake’s beach area. The surrounding walking tracks are dog-friendly, allowing your pets to explore alongside you, making it an ideal spot for both kids and pets to enjoy a relaxing day by the water.

3. Have Fun at a Local Playground

In Bathurst, the Adventure Playground is a must-visit for families. With slides, climbing frames, and large open spaces, it’s a favourite among kids. For those with pets, Bathurst also features the Bathurst Dog Park, an off-leash area where dogs can run and play freely while the kids enjoy the playground nearby. This combination makes it a great destination for families with kids and pets.

4. Go on a Nature Adventure

For a unique family experience, head to the Glow Worm Tunnel near Lithgow. Kids will love the magical sight of the glow worms lighting up the old railway tunnel, creating a memorable adventure. Pets are allowed on the walking tracks leading to the tunnel, so you can bring your dog along for the journey. It’s an exciting nature-filled activity that the whole family, including pets, can enjoy together.

Central West is an affordable place to live, with the cost of living being 21% lower than the Belleville average and 11% lower than the national average. Housing in Central West is particularly inexpensive, at 60% lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for homebuyers. Although Ontario’s general sales tax is 33% higher than the national average, the province’s state income tax is 40% lower, which helps balance the cost of living.

Central West's real estate housing market offers a mix of affordability and opportunity, making it an attractive option for buyers and investors. With housing costs significantly lower than the national and provincial averages, the area provides great value for those looking to purchase a home without the high price tag found in larger cities. Central West features a variety of properties, from charming older homes to modern new builds, catering to a range of preferences and budgets. The region’s growing popularity and proximity to key amenities and scenic surroundings make Central West a desirable location for families, professionals, and retirees.