Age-Exclusive Homes Now Available In Kent

Specialist developer Cognatum Property has launched Orchard Yard exclusively for over-55s in the Kent village of Wingham.

It’s situated in a picturesque location in the original farmyard of the 15th-century manor house Wingham Court and close to the site of a Roman villa. The scheme offers 15 contemporary, high-specification two- and three-bedroom homes in an agricultural vernacular design, with communal facilities and support services. With a show home opening in October, these homes will be completed in November 2020. Prices will start from £560,000.

Orchard Yard offers owners an active and independent lifestyle amongst like-minded people, complemented by the security of expert support services and estate management

Peter Walton, head of Cognatum Property, said: “With the current pandemic at the top of everyone’s minds, the advantages of living independently on a managed estate have become more obvious. Whilst people may need to self-isolate, no-one needs to be isolated. Being part of a community that looks out for each other and an estate manager on hand for support has never been more important. And having access to beautiful grounds with neighbours to chat to will be so valuable if there are further pandemics.”

Ross Anderson. director of selling agent Fine & Country, commented: “Orchard Yard is unique in the area and I anticipate strong demand from mature buyers looking to downsize, that still want to live independently, but may need some support in future. The homes are more spacious than a typical retirement village, and with great facilities and support services in place when needed, it is a great option that will give residents and their families peace of mind.”

Here, the hassles normally associated with homeownership such as garden upkeep and external home maintenance, both of which are taken care of by Cognatum. Those enjoying extended or spontaneous trips away will have peace-of-mind as the community will have 24/7 monitoring, CCTV and fitted alarm systems, allowing residents to feel safe and secure both while at home and away.

The Clubhouse will be the real hub of the community, a venue for such activities as a stretch studio, a gym and a space for social gatherings and visiting instructors, and the BBQ terrace and firepit will be the place to enjoy an alfresco drink in the summer months. A guest lodge is also provided for any family or visitors that wish to stay overnight while enjoying their own space.

Cognatum will offer general support services to the owners, who in addition will receive an hour’s practical help each week with tasks such as housekeeping. Extra care packages can be arranged to suit individual needs as and when required.

The homes – a mixture of nine three-bedroom houses and six two-bedroom apartments – are spacious, low maintenance and energy efficient, with flexible space and the structural provision for future additions such as a lift, should they become desirable. There’s plenty of storage and each home will have a parking space and dedicated carport, which has a charging point to cater for electric vehicles.

The whole scheme was carefully designed on ‘biophilic principles’, aligning closely to nature for physical and mental well-being. Each property will have its own individual garden or balcony, and residents will have access to the beautifully landscaped communal grounds incorporating an orchard, greenhouse and raised vegetable beds. Also in the design are hedgehog ‘hotels’, bird nests, and other initiatives to attract the wildlife and help it thrive.

The beautiful rolling Kent countryside and historic Wingham are literally on the doorstep. The village has many amenities, independent shops and the award-winning pub, The Dog. From Orchard Yard there are picturesque views to the north of the spire of St Mary’s Church, and to the south there is the site of a Roman villa.

Orchard Yard is seven miles away from Canterbury and less than 30 minutes’ drive from the pretty beaches of Sandwich and Broadstairs. Central London can be reached in less than an hour by train from Canterbury, or from Ashford in 36 minutes. Proximity to ports such as Folkstone and Dover, and airports, make it ideal for keen travellers and for second-home owners with properties on the Continent.

The two-bedroom apartments start at £560,000 and the three-bedroom houses start at £725,500. All properties are sold on a leasehold basis and there is a 1% resale fee charged.

Find out more at www.orchardyard.co.uk.

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