OAKLEY Place, near Headcorn High Street, is a new development of seven three and four-bedroom homes.

The scheme, by Berkeley Homes, is capitalising on the rising number of people who are relocating out of London.

Berkeley Homes points to figures from the Office of National Statistics showing that people are leaving the capital in unprecedented numbers in order to get away from poor transport, security worries, crime and underperforming schools.

During 2002, more than 230,000 people left for more rural addresses. The exodus has been made up of adults aged 25 to 44 and couples over 60.

The villages and hamlets of Kent have become a magnet to them because many continue to work in London and the M20/M25 and the rail service provide easy commuter links.

Headcorn is a prime example of these commuter villages, with a rail station just off the High Street.

Prices start at £230,000 (three bedrooms) and £280,000 (four bedrooms).

For sales information, call 01732 227555.