The second phase of Ashmere, a landmark joint-venture housing development in Ebbsfleet Garden City, Kent, has broken ground, marking the beginning of construction.
The new phase of the development is being jointly delivered by Countryside and Latimer – the development arm of Clarion Housing Group – and will comprise 235 new homes, of which 25% will be affordable, adding to the 281 homes delivered by the partners to date. Residents will have a choice of houses and apartments, with private sale, shared ownership and affordable rent homes available. First completions are expected to take place in September 2023.
As part of Ashmere phase two, Countryside and Latimer will also deliver a neighbourhood green, landscaping and a play area in keeping with the garden city concept, promoting a healthy, safe and sustainable lifestyle for residents.
Upon completion, the new sustainable neighbourhood will include 2,600 mixed-tenure homes of which 25% will be affordable, as well as a new primary school and a village centre, ensuring residents have easy access to essential amenities and more.
With excellent road connectivity and the HS1 to London St Pancras only taking 17 minutes from Ebbsfleet International station, Ashmere is exceptionally well connected both locally and nationally, making it the perfect place to live for commuters. A fast-track bus route will link the development to Bluewater Shopping Centre and the nearby train stations.
Due to complete fully in 2033, Ashmere is being delivered in collaboration with landowner Henley Camland. The partnership is also proud to be working with Ebbsfleet Development Corporation to deliver their vision for the Garden City.
Andrew Usher, Managing Director, South London & Thames Gateway, Countryside, commented: “Since the start of works on phase one, Ashmere has transformed beyond belief, with 281 homes delivered to date and many more in the pipeline. We’re excited to begin works on the next chapter of this flourishing community, bringing much-needed new homes across a variety of tenures to this well-connected and sought-after part of Kent, together with our trusted partners.”
Richard Cook, Group Development Director at Clarion Housing Group, said:
“Starting work on the second phase of new homes at Ashmere marks a significant milestone in this landmark joint-venture project. We are delighted to be partnering with Countryside to deliver private and affordable housing as part of this sustainable new community in easy reach of central London.”
Ian Piper, CEO, Ebbsfleet Development Corporation, said:
“We are pleased to continue working with Countryside and Clarion Housing Group to deliver a variety of types and tenures for new residents. Our commitment to delivering a place with wide appeal is achieved through these important parks and recreational spaces for new and existing residents to enjoy. Earlier this year we celebrated our 3,000th home within Ebbsfleet with Countryside and are pleased to continue to drive quality for our community through these successful partnerships. We look forward to Ashmere phase two coming to life and welcoming new residents to Ebbsfleet.”