COUNTRYSIDE Properties highlights that it has identified a new breed of consumer - the “middle-aged rebels".

These are people who refuse to adopt a slower pace of life and instead enjoy a new-found freedom when their children fly the nest.

According to a recent report, which studied 5,000 people in Britain, the US, Japan, Spain and Sweden, there are three new groups of consumers. The youngest, aged 50-55, are the “radical boomers”, who are determined to stay young; those in the 56-65 bracket are the “silent radicals” and are socially responsible; and those aged more than 65 are the “stoic seniors” because they are careful with money.

Reflecting this increasing percentage of the population who are enjoying a carefree lifestyle, Countryside Properties is offering a range of two and three-bedroom apartments and three, four and five-bedroom townhouses at its Queen Charlotte's Place, development in Kings Hill, West Malling, that are ideal for couples looking for a stylish, low maintenance property for their middle youth.

The concept of downsizing accommodation is becoming increasingly important as life expectancy continues to increase. Figures from the Office of National Statistics (1999) show that by 2050 the average life expectancy is expected to rise to 97 for women and 94 for men. Therefore, most couples will live for about 40 years after their children have left home.

Queen Charlotte's Place is ideally located within the heart of the King's Hill Villages, a new residential area designed to create a peaceful, relaxing and sustainable environment surrounded by green, landscaped open space. Ideal for “middle aged rebels,” there is a golf course, supermarket, new village hall and a public house with a restaurant.

Elegantly designed with Georgian style architecture, the townhouses at Queen Charlotte's Place, feature contrasting brickwork, render and stone exteriors, with courses and cornices of white stone and trimmings. The two and three-storey properties have porticos, railings, balconies and sash windows in keeping with traditional Georgian designs. Many of the properties benefit from detached or integral garages and all properties have allocated parking.

Featuring a wide range of house styles to suitindividual needs, each of the townhouses are currently available to buy off-plan. There is a choice of individually designed fitted kitchens with a variety of finishes, a selection of worktops, ceramic wall tiles and floor coverings.

Purchasers can also select the fire surround in the drawing rooms, the tiling in the bathrooms and the wall colours from a selected range. In addition, purchasers can take advantage of Countryside's Selections portfolio which offers an extensive range of additional upgrade options, including a Jacuzzi shower or bath and both interior design and landscaped garden services. Prices start from £135,000. For further sales information please contact the marketing suite on 01732 875182, e-mail queencharlottesplace@cpplc.com or alternatively visit the website at www.countryside-properties.com.

Countryside Properties was named housebuilder of the year at the What House? Awards 2001.