The Kent Commuter November 2017 issue

AN ESSENTIAL MONTHLY PROPERTY GUIDE FOR ANYONE MOVING OUT OF LONDON – FROM TIMES LOCAL NEWSPAPERS

P EEK U FRPIC

TO

n ov em ber Ed i t i on

If you’re looking for a new home then help is at hand

HOT PROPERTY NEWS

The only way is up Annual house price growth picked up in October, according to the Nationwide Building Society.

Across the UK, year-on-year house price growth stood at 2.5%, up from 2.3% in September.

Property values edged up by 0.2% monthon-month in October, taking the average house price to £211,085.

On track for a better home

Many people associate Help to Buy schemes with first time buyers but if you do your homework you’ll see that there are various options out there for most of us

S

ince the Government introduced its Help to Buy schemes four years ago well over 2,000 homebuyers in Kent have used them to help secure their dream home.

The idea behind them is simple: they allow hardworking potential homebuyers the chance to secure a brand new home under the value of £600,000 with

just a five per cent deposit. They are principally designed to help anyone struggling to save for a deposit for their first home or to move up the property ladder if they have limited equity.

Included in the schemes are the Help to Buy: Shared Ownership and Help to Buy: Equity Loan.

There is also a special ISA savings scheme which encourages people to save thanks to a Gov-

ernment boost of £50 for every £200 saved with a threshold of £3,000 per saver.

The equity loan scheme is available to both first time buyers and those looking to move from their existing home but it is only applicable to new builds.

Under this particular part of the Help to Buy scheme the buyer See page 2 for more on Help to Buy schemes >>

is only required to raise 5% of the property’s value as a deposit.

The Government will provide a loan of up to 20% through the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA). The Government’s loan is interest free for the first five years.

Having a combined deposit of 25% will then give you the

Commuters willing to spend an hour travelling into central London can save up to £480,858 on the cost of buying a home.

Recent research by Lloyds Bank found that property prices in towns including Rochester are about 60 per cent lower than London coming in around £316,000.

What price a deposit?

Specialist SME bank Aldermore’s latest research has highlighted that in the South East, first time buyers are under-estimating the deposit they will need by nearly £24,000. The bank states this is primarily down to a ‘lack of understanding’ around the house buying process and its associated costs.

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opportunity to source better lending and mortgage rate deals from lenders such as Barclays, Halifax and Santander who are all participating in the scheme. Borrowers can choose to repay the equity loan at any time, without penalty.

‘THE HELP TO BUY ISA ACCOUNT IS AVAILABLE FROM MOST HIGH STREET BANKS AND BUILDING SOCIETIES AND AIMS TO ENCOURAGE SAVING’ The Shared Ownership part of the scheme is ideal if you can’t quite afford the mortgage on 100% of a home. It offers people the chance to buy a share of their home (between 25% and 75% of the home’s value) and pay rent on the remaining share. Eventually bigger shares can be bought when buyers can

Bourchier Court, Sevenoaks Although Charlotte Powers, 28, and Jamie Cullen, 29, wanted to buy their own home one day, they weren’t in a rush. But they changed their mind when they noticed Bourchier Court in Sevenoaks, a new development by Be. They were impressed by its exceptional location and affordability, thanks to Help to Buy, and felt that the opportunity was too good to miss. The couple bought a one-bedroom apartment and moved in earlier this year.

Bourchier Court is just a few

November 2017

afford them. With Help to Buy: Shared Ownership you can buy a newly built home or an existing one through resale programmes from housing associations.

To be eligible for this you mustn’t earn more than £80,000 a year if you’re outside London, or £90,000 a year if you’re living in the capital.

The Help to Buy ISA account is available from most high street banks and building societies and aims to encourage saving. So for every £200 you deposit into your ISA the Government will donate a further £50. There is however a maximum bonus threshold of £3,000 meaning once you have reached that sum the Government will no longer contribute. If you are buying with your partner or friend and both open separate ISA accounts the Government contribution fund rises to a maximum of £6,000.

For more information visit the Government’s Help to Buy website www.helptobuy.gov.uk

minutes’ walk from Sevenoaks station. This was a great attraction for Charlotte, who commutes to London for her job with a media agency, and no longer needs to drive or pay expensive parking charges.

Charlotte says: “We were renting a house at Sevenoaks School, where Jamie works as a PE teacher. This was great, but we wanted a place of our own, and the location and high quality of these apartments were perfect for us. I’d moved back home for a couple of years and saved hard, which gave us a flying start. And, sharing the cost, we knew that our monthly outgoings would be

very affordable.”

Charlotte and Jamie’s apartment cost £334,000. Using Help to Buy, they only needed a 5% deposit of £16,700 and the scheme provided a 20% government loan of £66,800, which is interest free for five years. Their mortgage repayments are circa £900 a month, with an approximate £100 in service charges.

Purchasing with Help to Buy was seamless for the couple.

Jamie says: “We were complete novices at home buying, but it turned out to be quite simple.

The professional and helpful sales team, called us regularly with updates and to ask how

“IT’S GREAT TO KNOW THAT WE’RE NOT WASTING OUR MONEY ON RENTING AND THAT EVERY PENNY WE PAY IS GOING DIRECTLY INTO OUR FUTURE”

we were doing, which we really appreciated, and we feel very well prepared for moving in.”

Bourchier Court offers a very high standard of living, more usually associated with homes in London. The scene is set by the elegant concierge foyer with an exclusive business suite facility for residents. There’s also a beautifully landscaped split-level courtyard garden and private allocated parking, which is important for Charlotte and Jamie as they share a car.

Their apartment is light and airy, enhanced by higher-than-usual ceilings and oversized doors. The specification is excellent with luxury laminated flooring, a smart fully-integrated kitchen and stunning, fully-tiled bathroom with Roca bathroom suite.

Charlotte says: “Our apartment is very well finished and has everything we need. We are particularly impressed by the size – at 597 sq ft it feels very spacious and is closer to the size of some

two-bedroom apartments we’ve seen on the market.”

The right location was essential for Jamie and Charlotte. Jamie now has just a 20-minute walk to Sevenoaks School or an easy cycle ride. Charlotte has a quick journey into work every day; Sevenoaks station has regular services to London Bridge in less than 30 minutes and, with the possibility of the Oyster system being extended to Sevenoaks, she may also benefit from lower travel costs.

Charlotte and Jamie are thrilled with their new home. Jamie says: “It’s great to know that we’re not wasting our money on renting and that every penny we pay is going directly into our future.”

Currently available at Bourchier Court are two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments starting from £399,995. Help to Buy is available on every home. For more information, or to view the show apartments, please visit be.co.uk or contact the sales team on 01732 430758.

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JULIA PRICE, SALES DIRECTOR AT PENTLAND HOMES, EXPLAINS WHY THE HELP TO BUY SCHEME IS SO BENEFICIAL FOR PEOPLE… The results might surprise you but buying can be more affordable than renting across many of the country’s major towns and cities – especially in the South East of England.

For example, buying a new home at our latest development, The Observatory in Canterbury which is in one of the major cities of Kent.

You could be in a three bedroom home priced at £424,995 with only a 5% deposit using the Government Help to Buy scheme and save

yourself in the region of £250.00 a month.

The Help to Buy scheme has been such a great success and with the fantastic news that this scheme has been extended to 2020 it is the perfect time to make the move from renting to owning.

With a Help to Buy Equity Loan the Government lends you up to 20% of the cost of your newly built home, so you’ll only need a 5% cash deposit and a 75% mortgage to make up the rest.

Struggling with the 5% deposit? Why not try the bank of Mum and Dad? If parents or grandparents have a large amount of equity in their home or own it outright, it may be possible to re-mortgage it and gift the money released to family members.

So, if you think it is time to get on the housing ladder, why don’t you visit one of our developments and speak with a Pentland Homes sales advisor who will be more than happy to talk you through the process…

Chantry Green, Harrietsham First time buyers James Kennedy and Ellie Lawson, aged 29 and 28, have purchased their first home at Crest Nicholson’s Chantry Green in Harrietsham, Kent. The couple, who have been renting for the last few years, purchased the three-bedroom detached house for £350,000 using the Help to Buy scheme.

This government-backed initiative was a huge help for James and Ellie, enabling them to secure their new house with a deposit of £17,000. The pair had been saving for a home of their own for a couple of years whilst living in rented accommodation, but knew the time was right to buy this summer.

After viewing lots of houses in the area and struggling to find their perfect first home, close friends recommended they looked at developments by Crest Nicholson after recently purchasing a property themselves at Crest Nicholson’s Finberry in Ashford.

The couple were immediately struck by the excellent design of the collection of homes. “Chantry Green offers a real Kentish village feel,” James notes. “We loved the exterior of the house, it really fits into the traditional style of homes

in the local area.” wealth of cultural activities, including The interior of the home was anothattractions like Leeds Castle, which er huge selling point for the pair, as boasts stunning grounds where the James adds: “the open-plan living area couple regularly enjoy long, leisurely is ideal and gives us space to grow into, walks. we can picture our future family living The sales team at Crest Nicholson here and spending time together.” was there to guide the couple through For James and Ellie, location was every step of the way, with James also key, and as Ellie grew up in praising its experience. He says: Harrietsham, they knew the area was “The sales team has been so helpful well-suited to meet all their needs. throughout the entire process. Being James works for a civil engineering first time buyers, we’ve naturally had company in Maidstone, so his coma lot of questions, and the team has mute to work is very straightforward, been brilliant at dealing with all our whilst Ellie works in the nearby village queries.” of Bearstead. “Harrietsham has a Homes at Chantry Green are still charm about it,” James says. “It also available to buy, with prices starting offers great transport links, I can reach from £337,500 for a three-bedroom Maidstone and Canterbury easily, as house, or just £270,000 on Help to well as London on the train.”

Buy. To find out more, call 01622 In addition, the area offers fantastic 967000 or visit www.crestnicholson. schooling, including Harrietsham com/chantrygreen Primary School where Ellie was once a pupil.

Editor Eileen Leahy eileen@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk “We’re hoping to start a family Art Director Lee Smith lsmith8@markerstudy.com soon, so having Production Daniella Gavin good schools dgavin@markerstudy.com on our doorstep Commercial Director Nick Moore was another nmoore@markerstudy.com ONE MEDIA AND CREATIVE UK LTD important factor 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Contact sales: 01892 774781 Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU for us,” James jrose@markerstudy.com 01892 779 650 • www.one-media.co jreville@markerstudy.com adds. The area is also home to a

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DO INTERESTING TIMES NOW LIE AHEAD WITH A RATE RISE? We ask Tal Orly, founder and CEO of property investment specialists Cogress UK his opinion on what the likely future of the housing market will be if interest rates go up Since the UK voted to leave the EU, the depreciation of the pound has been considered responsible for the gradual rise in inflation, culminating in September’s Consumer Price Index climbing to 3%. With the Bank of England basing its monetary policy on a 2% inflationary target, all talk has been of a likely increase in rates when the monetary policy committee meet imminently. The Bank’s requirement to maintain price stability, whilst also stimulating

economic activity, means the decision is still too close to call. Should interest rates not change this month, speculation will continue to mount into 2018, especially in the event that inflation remains unchecked.

Despite any actual rise being cautious, and rates still at previously unseen lows, even the smallest increase will slow property prices, and cause prospective buyers to be more wary about borrowing, given the implication of higher repayments. Other The Bank of England

concerns include the rate of inflation/rate of wage growth disparity, now 0.9%. This is a growing concern as it represents a significant squeeze on personal income and further strains the monthly mortgage bill for many.

HOWEVER, FOR THOSE WITH THEIR FINGER HOVERING OVER THE PURCHASE BUTTON, AN IMPENDING INTEREST RATE RISE COULD BE THE PERFECT CATALYST TO TAKE THE PLUNGE

However, for those with their finger hovering over the purchase button, an impending interest rate rise could be the perfect catalyst to take the plunge, with the fear of rates beginning to spiral upwards acting as a deciding factor. A near term price surge, comparable to that seen before the most recent Stamp Duty Land Tax changes, cannot be ruled out. This could be even more evident if speculation continues for months before the Bank of England acts, and buyers fight over limited stock in the run-up to Christmas.

House price growth has already slowed to +2.6% in London over the last year, significantly less than other areas, with the Office for National Statistics suggesting the

UNSUCCESSFUL SALES ARE COSTING HOMEOWNERS OVER £500M A YEAR Following the Government’s recent call to reform the buying and selling process, Christine Toner spokesperson for industry experts the HomeOwners Alliance, explains why it’s high time for a shake up to the system Homeowners in the UK waste over £500m a year on failed attempts to buy and sell their properties, according to a new analysis of government figures by the HomeOwners Alliance (HOA). Around one quarter of housing transactions fall through as a result of the dysfunctional home selling process, leaving both buyers and sellers hundreds and even thousands of pounds out of pocket on fees to mortgage companies, surveyors, conveyancers and estate agents. The government last week published a call for evidence to reform the process and now HOA is calling for ‘reservation agreements’ to reduce the uncertainty.

“This is the true cost of the UK’s notfit-for-purpose home selling and buy-

ing system – homeowners losing more than £500m down the drain every year.

It is no surprise that some parts of the property industry has too often resisted previous government attempts at reform – this is extra business for them” said Paula Higgins, Chief Executive of the HomeOwners Alliance, the UK’s only consumer group for homeowners.

She continued: “It is a disaster for homeowners, who as well as suffering stress and heartache can lose thousands of pounds as well as investing loads of time without even having bought or sold their home.”

The HomeOwners Alliance is calling for the government to bring more certainty into the process by introducing a standardised and legally

binding ‘reservation agreement’, where at the point of agreeing the price – but before either side spends any money - the home buyer and seller commit to being ‘genuine’ to proceed with the transaction, and to pay the other side £1000 if they pull out, to pay towards their costs. This is similar to the successful reservation system used by homebuilders, where buyers have to post a £1000 deposit when putting their name down for a property to show they are genuine.

The reservation agreement would be exchanged between conveyancers, and would require buyers and sellers to be more ‘transaction ready’ before they enter the market than they are at the moment.

UK average sits at 5%. When accounting for inflation, house prices in the capital have fallen in real terms over the past 12 months. Nevertheless, over the last decade a very different picture emerges when comparing London to regions outside the captial and it seems unwise to ignore this.

Parts of London have seen massive increases in real term house prices whilst many regions outside of the South East have seen significant decreases.

Expectations are that inflation will continue at around the 3% mark over the coming months, above the Treasury’s 2% target for the next three years. The tipping point at which interest rates will start to rise is certainly getting closer, and this may prove to be important in rebalancing some real growth among different regions of the UK. With 2017 concluding, Brexit uncertainty persisting, and government-led house price depression appearing resolute, 2018 buyers will have to weigh higher mortgage costs against stalling house prices. Since the introduction of the second home stamp duty tax, we have noticed a distinct trend for drive cash-rich, option-poor investors moving away from buy-to-lets towards alternative real estate investment avenues.

From an investment perspective, we believe that 2017 marked the end of the parttime landlord and that 2018 will continue to reinforce this trend.

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THE LOWDOWN ON

GRAVESEND

November 2017

TOWN FOCUS: GRAVESEND

106,800 total resident population

●●●●●●●●●● ●●●●●●●●●● ●●●●●●●●●● ●●●●●●●●●● ●●●● The Conservative Party hold a majority in the area with 24 councillors out of the total 44.

The other 20 is made up of the Labour Party.

AREA: Situated in northwest Kent, 21 miles (35 km) east-southeast of central London on the south bank of the Thames Estuary and opposite Tilbury in Essex.

PROPERTY: The majority of sales in Gravesend during the last year were terraced properties, selling for an average price of £265,510.

Semi-detached properties sold for an average of £309,278.

Flats in the area brought an average of £168,099.

Gravesend had a total average price of £269,982.

Overall sold prices in Gravesend over the last year were 10% up on the previous year and 31% up on the 2014 level of £205,710.

Information sourced from Office for National Statistics, www.democracy.gravesham.gov.uk, Right Move.

A rich historical heritage, and a designated official Area of Natural Beauty all add to the appeal of this vibrant pocket of Kent. In Gravesend, Thames sailing barges, paddle steamers and yachts sail from the Pier Pontoon and many people visit the town to see the centuries old links to Charles Dickens, most notably his home Gad’s Hill Place. With a pleasant old town comprised of higgledy streets and 18th-century market stalls tumbling down to the Thames, the centre acts as a little hive of activity for the community.

With the ability to stroll, or cycle around the quaint surrounding villages of Higham, Luddesdown and Meopham, you can absorb the peace of an ancient country church or enjoy a tipple in one of the many pleasant pubs – all only a mere 24 minutes from central London. Striking the perfect balance between country and town living Gravesend has so many qualities to tempt you to come and discover it. Here are our top reasons why it could see you moving to greener pastures:

TOWN HERITAGE By definition, Gravesend is an ancient settlement with links reaching back to the Elizabethan, Jacobean and Georgian eras. There is a wonderful religious diversity, too with plenty of Victorian and Catholic churches as well as the magnificent Gravesend Gurdwara, Europe’s largest Sikh place of worship.

PROPERTIES Having such a formidable history and a mix of different cultures creates a unique blend of fascinating properties, ranging from spacious countryside houses to large terrace properties in the busy centre of Gravesend town. Beautiful Victorian and Edwardian

homes stand with original tiles and glorious bay windows, while tasteful new developments cater for modern day family life at its finest. Wrotham and Parrock Roads, Old Road East and the Windmill Hill conservation area are of special note.

ENTERTAINMENT Gravesend offers many cultural activities including tours around Gad’s Hill place, now a private school but once the home of Charles Dickens. It still offers visits to the public though so you can have a glance into the life of a literary genius. Cobham hall, an architectural beauty, and the Statue of Pocahontas are also great places to soak up the history of this maritime town.

Outdoor activities include Cyclopark, a fantastic local facility dedicated to cycling, and Shorne Woods Country Park which offers a fun day out for people of all ages with its mountain bike trails, BMX track, and children’s play area.

The Three Daws is said to be the oldest pub in Gravesend and sits next to the pier so if you’re looking for a fine local ale and a good bit of pub grub, then this is the place to come. With a range of different restaurants in town, quaint pubs and Bluewater Shopping Centre close by (offering 300 stores, over 50 bars, restaurants and cafés), there is plenty to tempt your tastebuds.

SCHOOLS Gravesend has great education facilities catering for all academic abilities. For Primary schools you are spoilt for choice. St Joseph’s and St John’s

Catholic schools and Riverview Infant are all rated Ofsted Outstanding.

There is also an impressive selection of secondary schools including Northfleet Technology College, Saint George’s C of E and Thamesview all rated Good. Gravesend Grammar (for boys) and Mayfield Grammar (for girls) are Ofsted Outstanding. The prestigious and eponymously named private school located in Gad’s Hill place, is also celebrating a recent ‘outstanding’ report from the Independent Schools Inspectorate.

TRANSPORT LINKS With direct high-speed services to London St Pancras, Gravesend is very accessible to London, with a journey time of just under 25 minutes. There are also great road links to the capital and coast and Eurostar trains run from nearby Ebbsfleet so you can be in Lille, Brussels or Paris in just under two hours.

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THE LOWDOWN ON

MAIDSTONE 166,400 total resident population

●●●●●●●●●● ●●●●●●●●●● ●●●●●●●●●● ●●●●●●●●●● ●●●●●●●●●● ●●●●● The Conservative Party hold the majority in the area with 23 councillors out of the total 55.

The Liberal Democrats come in close second with 22 members on the council.

AREA: Covering the ME14, ME15 and ME16 postcodes, Maidstone is the county town of Kent, sitting 32 miles (51 km) south-east of London.

PROPERTY: The majority of sales in Maidstone during the last year were terraced properties, selling for an average price of £248,058.

Semi-detached properties sold for an average of £308,351.

Flats brought an average of £168,954.

Over the last year homes were 7% up on the previous year and 20% up on the 2014 level of £235,340.

Information sourced from Office for National Statistics, www.services.maidstone.gov.uk, www.visitmaidstone.com, Right Move.

TOWN FOCUS: MAIDSTONE

Looking for pastures new? Then look no further than Maidstone, Kent’s county town. Nestled in the heart of the Garden of England, in addition to the hustle and bustle of the centre there is delightful countryside to explore which includes orchards and hop gardens galore, picture perfect villages and must-see heritage sights.

The town offers great shopping, cool nightlife and excellent transport links – you can get to London in under an hou.

The numerous country parks are a real draw boasting beautiful lakes and pleasant walks. Maidstone also has plenty of excellent facilities, good restaurants and impressive schools. Here are our other top reasons to fall in love with Maidstone:

TOWN HERITAGE Battles, revolts, witches and priests have shaped the vibrant town of Maidstone with a past that is widely celebrated and displayed throughout the historical town.

Home to the captivating Leeds Castle, the 14th century Archbishop’s Palace house history buffs will also enjoy the elaborate sleighs, sedan chairs and horse-drawn vehicles at the Tyrwhitt-Drake Museum of Carriages.

PROPERTIES Ranging from countryside houses to smart apartments and terrace houses in the busy centre of town, variety is huge here for any potential home-owners.

Many first time buyers love the Victorian two-up two-down houses in and around the town but then you’ll also find plenty of generously sized detached houses, both modern and period, on the town’s outskirts. Bower Mount Road has Edwardian semi-detached houses which sell for around £450,000 while the nearby small town of West Malling and outlying villages such as Bearsted, Yalding, Boughton Monchelsea and Mereworth are also sought after.

ENTERTAINMENT Maidstone isn’t all quiet country walks and picnics by the riverside. With Fremlin Walk Shopping Centre, lively nightclubs and fantastic restaurants it’s easy to have a great night out here too. There is also a wealth of exciting things for children, including indoor activity centres like Gravity Trampoline Park, and an Odeon cinema.

Art and culture are widely appreciated too. Maidstone Museum of Art is brimming with creative collections and there is also the Hazlitt theatre.

SCHOOLS Families come to Maidstone because the town has a good supply of family homes at reasonable prices, there are grammar schools and a choice of commuter stations. Once here, families tend to stay.

Education in Maidstone caters for many different needs and aspects of living.

Ranging from a good choice of selective schools including Invicta Grammar and others such as Valley Park School which celebrates all talents. The MidKent College Campus University is also located here.

TRANSPORT Maidstone is near the M20, making it easily accessible from London, Dover and Ashford.

The town also has two railway stations: Maidstone East and Maidstone West. The latter is on the high-speed line to St Pancras via Stratford and Ebbsfleet, and takes just 49 minutes into London. Maidstone East is connected to London Victoria and London Blackfriars, with journey times of around an hour. Bus services in and around Maidstone are fast and frequent, connecting the centre to the outlying villages and neighbouring towns.

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Positive changes ahead for the UK rental sector After decades of little regulation, plans are now being put in place to monitor the rental sector. Jade Kent, Head of Lettings at Savills in Tunbridge Wells explains why this is a good move At the 2017 Conservative Party Conference, Sajid Javid, MP for Bromsgrove, announced plans to regulate the lettings industry.

It is an announcement that we, along with the industry, welcome, having campaigned for many years to help improve the private rented sector.

Currently, anybody can set up a lettings agency without a licence or qualification. This has caused issues with deposits not being properly protected. In some cases lettings agencies are being set up with no security for tenants or landlords, who later disappear taking any deposits with them.

In 2015, Savills established The Lettings Industry Council (TLIC) to bring together representatives from all of the industry bodies and schemes in the sector. The purpose of the group was to help determine exactly what was necessary to improve the lettings industry for both tenants and landlords.

This announcement from the Conservative Party means that the Government is finally addressing the concerns of industry members.

The key plans they have outlined for the future are:

Every landlord must be part of an ombudsman scheme Currently only letting agents are required to join an ombudsman scheme. This planned change in the law would give all tenants access to quick and easy dispute resolution over issues like repairs and maintenance.

‘CURRENTLY, ANYBODY CAN SET UP A LETTINGS AGENCY WITHOUT A LICENCE OR QUALIFICATION. THIS HAS CAUSED ISSUES WITH DEPOSITS NOT BEING PROPERLY PROTECTED’

Legislation created to ensure all practicing agents are registered The law will mean that agents must register with an appropriate organisation, adhere to training requirements and comply with an industry code of conduct.

All Savills lettings teams are ARLA Propertymark protected and all lettings

staff must complete their ARLA Propertymark qualification within 12 months of joining.

Incentivise landlords to offer longer term tenancies During the autumn budget the Government will announce a new set of incentives for landlords who offer tenancies of at least 12 months. We hope these tax incentives for landlords will help ease the burden of recent tax changes.

Consultation on the case for a new housing court The Government will explore whether a new housing court could improve existing court processes, reduce dependence on legal representation and encourage arbitration, with benefits for both tenants and landlords. Ultimately, they are looking to save time and money when dealing with disputes, which are currently costly and can be very time consuming.

Grand designs on the development market The work of a student from Southborough near Tunbridge Wells has been recognised by one of the industry’s most influential developers in the South Ryan Boxhall (above), 18, from Southborough, has been awarded the coveted Excellence in Senior Design prize by The Skinners’ School in Tunbridge Wells. The prize is sponsored

by Tonbridge-based Millwood Designer Homes, as part of its prestigious annual Encouragement Pack initiative, which works with a number of schools across Kent and East Sussex.

Rob Sisley, Millwood’s Finance Director, met Ryan to present him with his prize of a trophy, along with a £50 cheque and £50 book token. Ryan has just started studying Mechanical Engineering at the University of Exeter, having completed A Levels at Skinners’ School in Design Technology, Maths and Physics.

Edward Wesson, Headmaster at Skinners’ comments: “Ryan is an outstanding young man and a real credit to the school. We are thrilled by his award of a Millwood Encouragement Pack and have no doubt that this will foster his continued interest within the field. We are very grateful to Millwood Designer

Homes for their support of our Design department and the recognition of our young men.”

Ryan, winner of the Millwood Designer Homes Prize and Cup for Senior Design, comments: “I am grateful for receiving the award. It was great to receive the recognition after all the hard work over the last year and I intend to put this towards my studies whilst undertaking a Mechanical Engineering degree at the University of Exeter. Skinners’ has set me up very well for these next three years and without the help of the Design Technology department, allowing me to gain the knowledge and practical skills I need to study engineering, I would not be in the position I am. I owe a lot to the school for giving me the drive to achieve and allowing me to succeed to the best of my ability.”

Millwood currently has a range of individually designed homes available across Kent, Sussex and Surrey and has recently opened Brambledown in Maidstone and The Old Orchard in Sutton Valence.

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Lessons on how to create a future generation of scientists Schools in Kent are leading the way when it comes to teaching young pupils about the importance of science, not just in the curriculum but in the workplace of the 21st century too.

Two of the county’s leading schools, Rose Hill Preparatory in Tunbridge Wells and The Judd, a renowned grammar school in Tonbridge, have both recently enjoyed working on scientific projects to further enhance their education…

HERE’S THE SCIENCE BIT Judd pupils look forward to their iGEM trip later this month

Innovative students pave the way for a biological revolution The International Genetically Engineered Machine Foundation - or iGEM – as it is known is an independent, non-profit organisation focused on educating and advancing students’ knowledge of synthetic biology.

For over a decade iGEM has been asking secondary school students to work together to solve genuine global challenges by building ‘genetically engineered biological systems with interchangeable parts’ as well as developing an open community and encouraging positive collaboration.

The Judd in Tonbridge is the first state school in the UK to enter this prestigious competition and will send a group of its students (pictured) to present the project work they have undertaken at the iGEM Jamboree in Boston, USA this month.

A spokesperson for the boys’ grammar school - which accepts girls in its sixth form

- said that by entering this international competition Judd ‘aims to pave the way for further UK schools to follow’.

They added: “The field of synthetic biology is currently worth $1.8 billion p.a. globally and is set to quadruple over the next five years; it is predicted that this field is going to experience the same order of explosive growth that computer science did in the 80s and 90s and have as much impact.

“It is quite apparent that if students are not sufficiently informed about this technology they may miss out on course opportunities at university and subsequent career development paths that might suit them.”

Participation in iGEM encourages teams who sign up to it to manage their own projects, undertake research and secure funding. Teams are also challenged to actively consider and address the safety,

FULL STEAM AHEAD Rose Hill pupils enjoyed a full week of science, engineering and technology focused lessons and special talks

security and environmental implications of their work. They design build and test their projects over the summer and then present them to other participating pupils in the States this November.

By entering the competition this year, Judd aims to inform more UK schools about this field and make the way easier for future British ones to follow.

“Part of the competition is to raise awareness of synthetic biology and iGEM,” continues the spokesperson. “The team are doing this in a number of ways including running a club for students in the lower part of the school and by liaising with other schools.

“A third of the team also took part in the March for Science demonstration in London this April where they met up with former Doctor Who star Peter Capaldi,” (pictured).

Rose Hill Preparatory school has just come completed their annual STEAM event – a week of activity focused learning on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Mathematics subjects.

The week was co-ordinated by Richard Mansfield and Barry Izzard, Head of Science & Design Technology, who said: “These disciplines have a direct impact upon our daily lives; however we are facing a skills gap we need to inspire pupils to study STEAM subjects. The modern world is driven by data and technology it is imperative that we give our pupils the tools necessary not only to cope but to excel in the ever changing world we live in.”

The week was packed with activities including visits from BMW to showcase the new i8 (£100,000 of electric car), a Chinook helicopter simulator, a lecture on heart trans-

plantation from a Great Ormond Street doctor as well as a whole host of team building exercises to build bridges; evacuate casualties; build shelters; make parachutes and change wheels.

A school spokesperson said: “All pupils, ranging from three year olds to those aged 13 were involved in activities using team work, critical thinking, communication and experimentation to solve the challenges.”

Rose Hill’s New Head, Emma Neville, added: “The end results of a week like this is that pupils who take thoughtful risks, engage in experiential learning, persist in problem-solving, embrace collaboration, and work through the creative process will become the innovators, educators, leaders, and learners of the future. We have had a wonderful week and STEAM is an important part of our ongoing curriculum”.

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Advertising Feature | November 2017

A helping hand for would-be buyers

To assist the increasing number of first-time buyers struggling to get on the property ladder, the government took steps to assist with the process. Although this has met with mixed responses, many people now own their own homes as a result. We give a run-down of the schemes, and some of the Kent developments offering sales through the numerous Help to Buy opportunities…

Help to buy ISA account This specialised account it available from most banks, building societies and credit unions within the UK. The aim is simple – to give your savings a boost. For every £200 you save or deposit into the ISA account, the government will donate a bonus of £50. There is a maximum bonus of £3,000, however, so once you’ve received that amount, their payments will cease.

This scheme is available for every firsttime buyer, so if you are purchasing with a partner or friend, then you can receive up to £6,000 towards your first home if you both set up accounts.

In order to claim the government bonus when you are ready to buy, you will need to instruct your solicitor or conveyancer to apply for it.

Liam from Tunbridge Wells opened his ISA account before buying a one-bedroom flat in the centre of town with his girlfriend in 2016. He received a £250 government bonus.

“My girlfriend received an unexpected gift from her parents while we were home hunting, so we could buy earlier than expected,” he says. “Opening the account was easy, and our solicitor took care of claiming the bonus. It was only £250 in the end, which isn’t much in the grand scheme of home-buying, but every little helps!”

Shared ownership This is for those who can’t quite afford the mortgage on 100 per cent of the home.

This is a more attainable option for those looking to get a little foot-up on their journey towards their own home. It offers the opportunity to buy 25 to 75 per cent of your first home, with the possibility of buying a larger share when you are in a position to do so.

offered an apartment on the government’s Shared Ownership Scheme,” he says. “I managed to cover the minimum investment of a 30 per cent mortgage, and the remaining 70 per cent was taken up by rent to the Housing Association. However, I have had a few issues in the ‘staircasing’ process (whereby you can purchase incremental percentages until, eventually, you own the whole property).

“On the whole, though, the experience

‘THE PRIME MINISTER’S ANNOUNCEMENT OF AN EXTRA £10 BILLION FUNDING FOR THE INITIATIVE, HAS COME AT EXACTLY THE RIGHT MOMENT’ You could be eligible for shared ownership in England if you live outside London and your household earns less than £80,000 per annum, you’re a first-time buyer but can’t afford to buy one now, or are already in an existing shared ownership deal.

Tunbridge Wells resident Marcus used the scheme to purchase his share of a two-bedroom apartment in the town centre.

“After being divorced for over ten years, and living in many different locations during that period, I was thankful to be

The developers you need to know Matthew Homes Ltd.

Matthew Homes Ltd are established builders who boast experience that stretches back to the 1950s. Although their developments are spread across the country, they have exceptionally attractive and affordable homes that are ideally situated in the Kent and Sussex areas. Their sites have the benefit of showcasing a range of homes for a variety of different requirements.

Their Kent developments consist of Four Gun Field in Rainham and Town Farm Place in Ashford. The Rainham site showcases 52 three and four bedroom homes, and is close to the mouth of the River Medway – quite the idyllic location. And with a vast array of shops and amenities nearby, this really is a great choice for would-be buyers. www.matthew-homes.com

has been a positive one, and I would recommend it to anyone in a similar position to myself.”

Equity loan Only an option for new developments, this is for those who have a small deposit and wish to own their home outright. The government lend you anywhere up to 20 per cent of your home’s value loan fee-free for the first five years of ownership.

As an example, a new build with a £350,000 price tag could be paid for with a £35,000 deposit, a £245,000 mortgage and a £70,000 government loan.

Kent has become a thriving area for new developments, and there are plenty of options available for those who are looking to take advantage of such a loan.

John Elliott, Managing Director of Millwood Designer Homes comments: “In the new build market, Help to Buy is the single most important factor fuelling activity among first time buyers and its importance should not be underestimated.

The Prime Minister’s announcement of an extra £10 billion funding for the initiative, has come at exactly the right moment, delivering a big boost of confidence amongst first-time buyers and home builders, following a feared end to the much-needed subsidy programme.

Millwood Designer Homes

Managing Director and Deputy Managing Director John and Jeff Elliott are so confident in their builds that they live in their very own Millwood Designer Homes.

The company is renowned for its large properties modelled on traditional 15th and 16th-century Yeoman-style farmhouses once so common in the Kent and Sussex Weald.

Currently they have nine developments across Kent, Sussex and Surrey, the largest being Windsor Meadow in Marden, Kent – a collection of 86 homes comprising a mix of 2 and 3-bedroom terraced and semi-detached homes and 3, 4 and 5-bedroom detached homes. www.millwooddesignerhomes.co.uk

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November 2017 | Advertising Feature

Hove is an exciting new offering that comprises of one, two and three The Hyde Group, who specialise in housing for both sale and rent in Lon- bedroom apartments only fifteen minutes from the seafront. With a don and across the South East, curhigh-specification, and access to all rently owns or manages in excess of the buzz that Brighton and Hove has 49,000 homes. Hyde New Homes, as to offer, this building is sure to appeal part of the group, was established in to a range of buyers. It’s the ideal base 2002 and is now one of the country’s for professionals, young families and leading suppliers. They offer many those looking for a refreshing alternaoptions for buyers including 100 per tive to the suburbs. cent sale and shared ownership. www.hydenewhomes.co.uk Their New Wave development in

Pentland Homes

As one of Kent’s leading developers, Pentland Homes have become a reputable name in the industry. With their roots stretching all the way back to the 1960s, they have seen considerable growth over the years thanks to their commitment to building contemporary new homes of the highest quality.

Currently, they have six developments spread across popular locations in Kent, including Ashford and Canterbury, with a further four sites that will be available soon. www.pentlandhomes.co.uk

Hyde New Homes

Dandara

After being established in 1988, Dandara is now one of the UK’s largest independent development companies. They’ve sold to over 10,000 satisfied customers and won more than 100 industry awards for their high-quality product and their dedicated team.

Their Kent developments are based in the highly desirable areas of Tunbridge Wells and Tenterden.

The Knights Wood development in Tunbridge Wells is worth particular note for their outstanding family homes starting with two-bedroom properties from £351,000 with access to excellent amenities and quick transport links to London. www.dandara.com

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November 2017

John Bullock: Design

When you can’t see the works for the trees We all love them, but sometimes trees can get in the way of building plans, and careful investigation and consideration is required to ensure no rules are broken in relation to ecology, conservation and the protection of wildlife.

So it is always best to get the advice of experts before wielding the axe…

In this month’s column, we have asked two specialist consultants to respond to specific questions from readers about the impact of trees and ecology on their development plans.

Firstly, we deal with the issue of protected species and Sean McMinn from Marsh Environmental has been kind enough to offer guidance.

Our second enquiry comes from house owners in central Tunbridge Wells who are concerned that two mature trees might restrict their plans for extension, and local arboricultural consultant Ben Larkham seeks to clarify the position.

These letters come at a time when both arbocology and ecology have become hot topics and need careful consideration when proposing development works which might have an effect on the natural environment.

READER Question 1: Dear Kent Commuter, We live just outside Tunbridge Wells and have an old barn which we would very much like to convert into an annexe for an elderly relative.

We understand that part of the process to gain planning permission would be to check the impact of the conversion on the potential wildlife that may live in the barn.

Could you provide us with further information about this?

Robin & Kate Archer

Our Answer A range of species and habitats are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981 (as amended ) and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 and Amendments (2012). As a result, the presence of protected species is a material consideration in planning decisions. With the exception of some very small householder applications, many development proposals will have the potential to impact in some way on local biodiversity.

This may be as a result of direct loss of habitats and or species or a reduction in the value of the habitats and their ability to support the species that depend upon them.

Typically, many barn conversions can fall into this category.

Planning authorities have statutory obligations towards biodiversity in the planning process.

Paragraph 109 of the NPPF states that: “The planning system should contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by:  Recognising the wider benefits of ecosystem services  Minimising impacts on biodiversity and providing net gains in biodiversity where possible, contributing to the Government’s commitment to halt the overall decline in biodiversity, including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more resilient to current and future pressures.”

Paragraph 118 of the NPPF states that: “When determining planning applications, local planning authorities should aim to conserve and enhance biodiversity by applying the following principles:  if significant harm resulting from a development cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts), adequately mitigated, or, as a last resort, compensated for, then planning permission should be refused  And opportunities to incorporate biodiversity in and around developments should be encouraged.” www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk/residents/ planning/planning-policy/development-plan-documents/core-strategy In your case, for example, where you want to convert an old barn into an annexe, the proposal has the potential to have negative impact upon bats that may use the barn as a roost site or barn owls that may be using the building as a nesting site. All species of bats are protected under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 and barn owls under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Therefore It is advisable at the pre-application stage, to undertake what is generally called a Baseline Ecological Site Audit or Phase 1 Ecological Survey.

This type of survey is carried out by a suitably qualified ecological consultant.

The consultant ecologist will then produce a report detailing the survey findings, together with an assessment of how the proposed development might be expected to impact on the habitats and species that exist at the site.

Depending on what is found during the survey, there may be the requirement for further survey work. Many protected species are seasonally active therefore there are certain times of year when a survey cannot reliably demonstrate their presence or absence.

It is important to consult with an ecologist and plan the most appropriate time of year for survey work, in line with

published guidelines.

If protected species or other important wildlife features are found on site, then any survey should include as a minimum an outline scheme of mitigation integrated as part of the development proposal to protect the species during and after development. www.gov.uk/guidance/protected-species-how-to-review-planning-applications However, and with careful planning, the development can be designed so that impacts on species that are afforded special protection under European or UK legislation and identified within the site and immediate surrounding area can be avoided, with no loss and or direct injury to populations or individual animals (that can result in prosecution).

The development can also be carefully designed so that it has the least possible negative impact on the overall biodiversity of the site.

In some cases where European Protected Species have been identified as using the site, a European Protected Species Mitigation Licence [EPSL] will have to be applied for: www.gov.uk/government/publications/ european-protected-species-apply-for-a-mitigation-licence And, for example, in the case of a barn conversion where bats have been discovered roosting inside the barn, a licence will be necessary if your work will have impacts on bats that would otherwise be illegal, such as:  Capturing, killing, disturbing or injuring them (on purpose or by not taking enough care)  Damaging or destroying their breeding or resting places (even accidentally)  Obstructing access to their resting or sheltering places (on purpose or by not taking enough care) www.gov.uk/guidance/bats-protection-surveys-and-licences Once the existing ecology of the site and surrounding area has been established, there may be opportunities to enhance biodiversity and to complement existing habitats and species.

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November 2017 Ecological enhancements should, where possible, be included in the proposed development plans to contribute towards the intended objectives of planning legislation NPPF Para 118.

Simple Biodiversity enhancements for a site could include some of the following:  Provision of ready-made bird boxes (sparrow terrace timber boxes or house martin nests for instance, or a mix of open-fronted and hole-nesting boxes constructed from woodcrete).  Provision of a bat loft incorporated into the design of the building, or bat boxes erected on trees.  Provision of barn owl boxes in trees/buildings if the surrounding landscape is judged suitable.  Provision of reptile/amphibian hibernacula (as stand alone or within new walls by creating recesses into wall structures).  Provision of log piles for invertebrates (including stag beetles), reptiles and amphibians.  Priority should be given to species present on the Kent Biodiversity Action Plan species lists, and where there is the potential for that species to occur on site.  The list includes, barn owl, great crested newt, common toad, viviparous lizard, slowworm, grass snake, adder, house sparrow, tree sparrow, hedgehog, noctule, soprano pipistrelle, brown long-eared bat, brown hare, water vole, harvest mouse, dormouse, otter as well as many more species. See www.kentbap.org.uk/habitats-and-species/priority-species Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 is important in providing detail on a range of protection and offences relating to wild birds, other animals, and plants. The level of protection depends on which Schedule of the Act the species is listed on. Licences are available for specific purposes to permit actions that would otherwise constitute an offence in relation to species. The legislation does not currently allow licences to be granted to permit such actions for the purpose of development.

Conservation of Habitat and Species Regulations (2010) The Conservation of Habitat and Species Regulations 2010 transpose European Union Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (EC Habitats Directive) into national law.

These regulations provide for the designation and protection of ‘European Sites’, the protection of ‘European Protected Species’ and the adaptation of planning controls for the protection of such sites and species.

Under the regulations, public bodies have a duty in exercising their functions to have regard to the EC Habitats Directive.

NOTE: The 2010 Regulations consolidate the previous regulations formerly set out in the Conservation (Natural Habitats &c) Regulations 1994 (as amended).

Many thanks to Sean for his invaluable advice.

For further ecology advice, please contact Sean McMinn at Marsh Environmental 01303 230890 / 07888 683767. Email: enquiry@marsh-environmental. com www.marsh-environmental.com

Reader Question 2: Dear Kent Commuter, We live in central Tunbridge Wells and love our house and its position. It works for our family with enough bedrooms and a reasonably sized garden. The only change that we would like to make is to extend our living space.

We are planning to extend our kitchen into the garden, under permitted development, to create a large open-plan family kitchen/diner.

However, we have two trees which would require removal. We would welcome your advice on the feasibility of removing these.

We have many other trees in our garden and would happily replant two more if this would help our case?

Jo and Emily Baker Our Answer Thank you for your enquiry.

When you are considering works to your property which may require tree removal or building close to retained trees, it is worth remembering that there are specialists available to help deal with these issues.

But why engage the services of an arboricultural consultant? They are just trees, after all!

Trees are recognised as a very important feature within the built environment, offering scale and instant maturity for new build developments and existing properties where extensions and remodelling works are proposed. In addition to the environmental benefits that trees provide, the contribution to visual amenity and a sense of place are all recognised within the planning system.

The contribution trees make is well established in the planning system with the use of Tree Preservation Orders and the designation of Conservation areas which protect trees within their boundaries.

Trees in this situation are a greater material consideration in the planning process.

Your consultant can establish the position regarding tree protection from your local authority, and this may have a material impact on how your proposal fits with tree retention if they are protected.

If trees are not protected within your garden, then we would not

recommend removal before a planning application is submitted, as this pre-emptive approach is not always in the best interests of the development. We would always suggest a survey be undertaken prior to considering any management or removal works.

Garden areas are decreasing in size within towns and villages as new infill development and extensions are built and the available land for trees and their rooting environment is put under pressure.

The local authority aims to maintain the balance between new development and existing trees to ensure that the local environment is an attractive place to live and work.

When considering new works to an existing property, where trees are in close proximity to the development, the local authority will seek to ensure that trees are retained where possible and that they will not be affected.

Potential harm to the tree could be in relation to the above ground parts of the tree, but principally relates to likely damage to the roots.

Where trees are present in vicinity to a new development, the local authority will request an arboricultural survey to assess the condition and quality of those trees. This appraisal should be undertaken by a qualified Arboricultural Consultant.

As part of this survey, your consultant will identify which trees are appropriate to retain and which could be removed due to poor condition or defects.

The survey of the trees would be presented as a full schedule of species, their dimensions and condition together with recommendations for any management regardless of your development ambitions.

The Arboricultural Survey would be undertaken in accordance with the industry standard recommendations of ‘British Standard 5837:2012 Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction’.

The survey will establish recommended root protection areas for each tree. within which new building works should not occur.

If conflicts to the root protection are

present then your consultant would work with your design team to establish whether a design solution could be found. This may be through redesign in discussion with the applicant or through the use of specialised foundation design and engineering solutions.

In this situation, the local authority would request additional reports to be provided by your Arboricultural Consultant to explain the situation and solutions proposed.

Your Arboricultural Consultant would also liaise directly with the planning department and their tree officer to progress these issues. Using a consultant with a good relationship with the local planning officers is useful in progressing the tree elements of the planning application.

The additional reports may identify the need for protective fencing or ground protection measures to be installed, and the local authority may request you retain the services of your Arboricultural Consultant through the works to ensure the trees being retained are appropriately protected. These reports can take the form of an Arboricultural Impact Assessment or Method Statement, and will form part of the planning submission and subsequent planning approval.

If trees are to be removed as part of the application, then we would often encourage the client to provide replacement tree planting elsewhere in the garden to give continuity and longer term tree cover to the garden.

New tree planting would form part of any new landscape planting if this is required by the local authority when issuing planning approval.

Many thanks to Ben for his invaluable advice.

For further arboricultural advice, please contact Ben Larkham at Ben Larkham Associates Ltd, Arboricultural and Horticultural Consultants, on 01892 684086 / 07810 058088 Email: office@benlarkham.co.uk www.benlarkham.co.uk John Bullock Email: john@johnbullockdesign.com

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November 2017

DRUM & MONKEY COTTAGE HORSMONDEN

PROPERTY

£735,000

FOCUS Horsmonden & Tunbridge Wells

AT A GLANCE Drum & Monkey Cottage ■ Featured on ‘Escape to the Country’ ■ Entrance lobby ■ Cloakroom ■ Dining room ■ Sitting room ■ Kitchen/breakfast room ■ Master bedroom ■ Bathroom ■ Three further bedrooms (two of which are attic rooms) ■ Double garage with room for storage ■ Garden stream ■ Large pond and patio area

WEATHER-BOARDED

COTTAGE AS SEEN ON TV Grade II listed character building of immense charm with undulating gardens and conveniently located between two villages.

Available for sale through Firefly Properties Tunbridge Wells 01892 838363 www.fireflyproperties.co.uk

homes portfolio: RESIDENTIAL HOUSES AT A GLANCE Newlands Road ■ Detached house ■ Recently remodelled ■ Coat cupboard ■ Downstairs toilet ■ Sitting room ■ Study ■ Kitchen/diner with feature window ■ Snug room ■ Master suite with en suite ■ Four further bedrooms (two of which are doubles) ■ Family bathroom ■ Stepped garden laid to lawn ■ Covered outdoor seating area ■ Fruit baring pergola

NEWLANDS ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

GUIDE PRICE £780,000-£810,000

STUNNING MODERN FAMILY HOME IN DESIRABLE LOCATION This four bedroom detached house has been remodelled to a high standard to provide spacious accomodation.

Available for sale through Le Grys Tunbridge Wells 01892 529448

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November 2017

AT A GLANCE

PROPERTY

FOCUS Ide Hill & London Road

VERULAM HOUSE PHILIPPINES SHAW, IDE HILL

GUIDE PRICE £3,250,000

IMPRESSIVE AND ELEGANT

DETACHED RESIDENCE Superbly proportioned house with established gardens set in an exclusive gated development.

Available for sale through Savills 01732 789700 www.savills.co.uk

Verulam House n Portico entrance n Reception hall n Drawing room n Dining room n Kitchen/breakfast room n Garden room n Orangery n Family room n Cloakroom n Study n Shower room n Billiards room n Wine cellar n Utility room n Boiler room n Master suite with balcony n Three further bedrooms all with en suites n Two further bedrooms on the second floor n Bathroom n Two storage rooms n Integral double garage n Established gardens and woodland n Total area of 3.2 acres

homes portfolio: RESIDENTIAL HOUSES CHARACTER CONTEMPORARY HOME

ARRANGED OVER FOUR FLOORS End of terrace four storey family town house offering flexible accomodation that includes a cinema/playroom and secure underground parking for two vehicles.

Available for sale through Wood & Pilcher 01892 511311 www.woodandpilcher.co.uk

AT A GLANCE Wellington Gardens n Entrance hall n Cloakroom n Sitting room n Kitchen/Diner n Cinema room/Family room/Bedroom n Master bedroom with en suite & dressing room n Bathroom n Three further bedrooms (one with en suite) n Utility room n Boot room n Rear garden n Secure underground parking

WELLINGTON GARDENS, LONDON ROAD

£775,000

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AT A GLANCE

26 | the

Boyne Park n Entrance porch n Double aspect sitting room n Modern kitchen n Understairs storage cupboard n Cloakroom

November 2017

n Shared cellar space n Communal hallway n Two double bedrooms

PROPERTY

n Gravelled driveway with

parking space

FOCUS

n Small communal garden laid

to lawn

Tunbridge Wells

LIGHT AND SPACIOUS MAISONETTE IN SOUGHT AFTER TOWN LOCATION Wood & Pilcher Tunbridge Wells 01892 511211 www.woodandpilcher.co.uk

BOYNE PARK, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£1,250 PCM

homes portfolio: LETTINGS SHERNFOLD PAK FARM, FRANT

£1,500 PCM A BLEND OF OLD AND NEW IN THIS FAMILY HOME WITH ORIGINAL BEAMS AND MODERN FEATURES Available for let through Wood & Pilcher 01892 511211 www.woodandpilcher.co.uk

AT A GLANCE Shernfold Pak Farm n Exterior steps leading to small entrance porch n Open plan living room/dining room with original beams n Exposed brick fire surround and new wood burner n Dining area n Kitchen with larder cupboard n Conservatory n New shower room n Master bedroom n 2 further double bedrooms n New bathroom n Low maintenance garden laid to patio n Well-established beds and hedge borders n Garage n Off-road parking for one car n Further parking at front of house

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November 2017

PROPERTY

FOCUS Tunbridge Wells & Keston

WELLPROPORTIONED THREE BEDROOM HOUSE WITH UPGRADED KITCHEN

AT A GLANCE Golding Road n Entrance hall n Cloakroom n Open plan kitchen/breakfast room n Utility room n Sitting room n Master bedroom n Two further bedrooms n Family bathroom n Enclosed garden n Two allocated parking spaces

Semi-detached house benefitting from new fittings, flooring and triple glazing.

Available for sale through Jackson-Stops 01892 521700 www.jackson-stops.co.uk

GOLDING ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£525,000 - £550,000

homes portfolio: NEW HOUSES WESTERHAM ROAD, KESTON

GUIDE PRICE £775,000 AT A GLANCE Westerham Road n Internal alarmed security systems n Gated development n Colour video door entry system n Fully fitted kitchen n Two bedrooms n Two bathrooms n Balcony n Communal garden n Secure cycle store n Landscaped gardens n Two parking spaces n 10 year warranty n Potential EPC rating = C

FIRST FLOOR APARTMENT WITH BALCONY OVERLOOKING GARDEN One of 13 luxurious, well-proportioned apartments nestled in the countryside.

Available for sale through Savills Sevenoaks 01732 789700 www.savills.co.uk