First-time buyers have snapped up most of the homes on a new affordable housing estate.

mhs homes has celebrated the completion of the development in Pier Road, Gillingham.

Along with Longfield-based builders Esquire, they have created 20 shared ownership homes and 17 of them will be going to first-time buyers

The three bedroom properties all have parking, views of the Strand and easy access to the Medway area.

Plans for the site, which was originally an overgrown patch of land, were first approved by the council in August 2021.

First time buyer Richard Tunbridge says he can’t wait to move in.

“We were renting and then our landlord decided to sell so we’ve been living with family for months,” he explained.

“We’re over the moon to finally be getting our own place where our daughter can have the space to grow.”

Alison and Mark Odd have always rented and they’re looking forward to having the security of their own property.

“It’s a dream for us,” said Mark. “We both work locally, our daughter is nearby with our first grandchild.

“We can’t wait to get in, meet our new neighbours and put down some roots.”

Gemma Hancock, executive director of assets and development at mhs homes, said: “There’s been huge demand for these properties which have such great links to Medway.

“This development will provide safe and sustainable homes, helping people to get a foot on the housing ladder and addressing the pressing need for affordable housing in Kent.”

Paul Henry, managing director of Esquire, added: “We wanted to dispel the myth that affordable housing can’t be high quality.

“As a local developer, we’re proud to have delivered an affordable housing scheme which will benefit residents and the local community.”