The first new homes as part of the redevelopment of the UK's oldest existing hospital have hit the market.

Work on the multimillion pound scheme at St Bart's in Rochester is progressing fast with the first flats on course to be finished in September.

A fifth of the 86 properties in the first phase – which will see major refurbishment and conversion throughout the former hospital – have already been sold off plan with the showhome still being finished.

Building began back in March and the historic structure is currently covered in scaffolding while workers continue with restoration and external works.

There were grave concerns among residents and history groups in 2016 when the NHS sold off the building that it would be lost.

But the conversion plans for 155 homes were finally approved by Medway Council in April 2020 after several application hearings were deferred to ensure that the Victorian building will be retained.

The listed mortuary and historic water tower will also remain and it is hoped can be restored to be used by the community.

A hospital has stood on the site by the River Medway since 1078 and was established to care for the poor and those suffering from leprosy.

Part of the hospital sits within the nave of an ancient Grade-II listed chapel while the main part of the hospital was built in the mid-19th century, opening in 1863.

St Bart's in Rochester was the oldest existing hospital, pre-dating its namesake in London by more than 50 years.

The development, along New Road, will see a second phase created in two blocks of 58 apartments and 12 houses.

The homes are being sold by estate agents Wards of Kent and Savills with the showhome launch due on June 26.

Harry Ladds, Asset Manager at MCR Property Group, said: “Work is progressing really well and we’re still on course to deliver the first phase of the scheme by the end of September.

“The site is largely hidden from view at the moment but there’s intense activity going on behind the scenes.

"The transformation is really taking shape and we can’t wait to unveil the finished development, which will remain an incredible landmark for Rochester.”

Prices range from £139,950 for a studio apartment to £269,950 for a two-bedroom apartment.

One-bedroom flats are also being built along with new build three-bedroom homes.

Agents say all the flats will have period features dating back to the Gothic-style built hospital and communal terrace areas offering river views.

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