Workers are returning to a stalled development on St Mary's Island, Chatham Maritime, Kent, thanks to £6.93 million of Kickstart funding from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA).

Work stopped on the 60 hectare St Mary's Island in 2009 as the economic downturn hit the construction industry hard. With the funding now in place the next two phases of the scheme can begin again on Britain’s only planned new island community.

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The development is being managed by Countryside Maritime Ltd, a joint venture between the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) and Countryside Properties. Another 550 homes are forecast for the site in addition to around 1,200 homes and extensive community facilities which have been completed.

Akin Durojowu, Head of area at the HCA, said: "Britain's only planned new island community can now get back on track. I'm delighted the HCA is able to work with and support our partners in transforming the former Naval Dockyard into a well-designed, sustainable and affordable community."

The project has already been supported by a £1.65m National Affordable Housing Grant from the HCA and £2.47m from SEEDA.

(CD/GK)