The second phase of a housing development has begun, marking the start of construction of 235 new homes.

The Ashmere development in Ebbsfleet Garden City is a joint venture by developers Countryside and Latimer, with the new phase adding to the 281 homes already built.

A quarter of the new homes will be affordable, with a choice of houses and apartments for private sale, shared ownership and affordable rent.

The first completions for the new homes are expected to take place in September 2023.

The developers will also be landscaping the site and building a play area, and neighbourhood green.

Ashmere, which is expected to be completed in 2033, will have 2,600 mixed-tenure homes, along with a primary school and a village centre with amenities.

The development is close to Ebbsfleet International station, giving residents access to the High Speed train line, which reaches London St Pancras in just 17 minutes.

A fast-track bus route links the development to Bluewater Shopping Centre and the nearby stations.

Andrew Usher, managing director for South London & Thames Gateway at Countryside, said: “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, chief executive of 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.”

Ashmere is being built in partnership with landowner Henley Camland, and with the help of Ebbsfleet Development Corporation.

Properties currently available at Ashmere start at £285,000 for an apartment, and £362,500 for a coach house.