Affordable island living - just 50 minutes from London

For many people, buying a home on an island is thought to be an unobtainable dream. Traditionally fetching higher prices, island homes are some of the most sought after properties on the market, due to their tranquil settings, picturesque views and close-knit communities. A typical home on a Thames island now costs between £350,000 and £500,000.

But living the dream can be a more affordable option on St Mary’s Island near Chatham in Kent. Now, thanks to the visionary partnership of the local council, the government and one of the UK's most progressive housebuilders, Countryside Maritime has transformed this land into a living, vibrant, eco-friendly community for the 21st century.

Homes on St Mary’s Island, the UK’s only planned new Island community, start from £265,000, making it a very affordable option. Similar to the Thames islands that are closer to London, such as Eel Pie, Thames Ditton Island and the Isle of Dogs, St Mary’s Island offers peace and tranquillity, but for around half the price. And the commute into London is easy with frequent train services into London Cannon Street in just 47 minutes, meaning the journey is only slightly longer than a commute from the Isle of Dogs into the West End.

Chris Crook, Subsidiary Managing Director for Countryside Properties said: “St Mary’s Island offers a fantastic lifestyle, and has practical amenities and travel links close-by, all at an affordable price. So far we’ve had extremely high interest in the next phase of apartments at the Fishing Village which is due to launch off plan later this month, and we expect the same when the houses and apartments at Ventura Riverside launch later in the year.”

Countryside Maritime is a joint venture project between Countryside Properties and SEEDA (the South East England Development Agency). St Mary’s Island forms part of the 150 acre Chatham Maritime regeneration project in Kent. 1,000 homes have already been built on the Island and approximately another 1,000 are planned, providing homes for over 5,000 residents. Countryside Maritime’s existing schemes include Axis, Ventura, The Fishing Village and Northshore.

The homes on St Mary’s Island combine eco-friendly features with contemporary housing design. The community is ideal for families featuring a new primary school, doctors’ surgery and community centre, as well as 20 acres of open space.

For further details on currently available or forthcoming homes from Countryside Maritime on St Mary's Island, visit Chathammaritime.co.uk.