Work started in June on Cognatum’s first completely new development in several years. Orchard Yard in Wingham, close to Canterbury and the channel ports, will have a rural feel, being built in the former farmyard of the Manor House, with an orchard, meadow, vegetable gardens and a Victorian greenhouse. But the fifteen new houses will be far from rustic. They are designed to be light and airy, providing flexible space and plenty of storage, as well as being energy efficient and low maintenance. Another first is the club house which will include a gym and space for social gatherings, and there will be comfortable guest accommodation.

The project is being funded by Cambria Group, a property investment company, which is also working with Cognatum on a number of other potential schemes across the country.

Richard Powell, director of Cambria said: “Cambria are delighted to have teamed up with Cognatum. Their vision for independent senior living in beautiful homes, in wonderful landscaped settings, with highly professional service delivery really resonated with our understanding of what people in later life aspire to. All Cognatum’s estates have really stood the test of time and continue to be lovely places to live; our responsibility is to create 21st Century versions that capture the original essence but with a focus on environmental sustainability and the use of technology. Orchard Yard delivers a key requirement of private grounds in the heart of the village, with no need for unnecessary car journeys as everything will be on the doorstep.”

Cognatum Property will be marketing the new properties which should be completed in Autumn 2020.

Richard Powell and Glynne Benge of Cambria at Stuart Court with the Princess Royal.