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Ukip win in Rochester and Strood by-election will hit house prices, claim Conservatives

House prices in Rochester and Strood could fall sharply if Ukip wins the seat, according to Tory strategists.

They claim voters are concerned the constituency could suffer the same fate as Barking and Dagenham where many middle-class families moved away following local council victories by the BNP.

Speaking to the Telegraph, Charles Walker, MP for Broxbourne, who joined candidate Kelly Tolhurst on the campaign trail today, said: "The danger is if you vote Ukip, the value of your house will go down."

Prices in Rochester have increased by 15%
Prices in Rochester have increased by 15%

Mrs Tolhurst herself told the paper she had heard similar concerns from residents but would not be drawn on the issue.

Ukip reacted angrily to the claims, calling it a "sign of desperation."

Nigel Farage told the Telegraph: "It's an absurd utterance, from a candidate who fails to impress.

"The Tories' desperation has reached new levels. It's not going to impress anyone."

Kelly Tolhurst, MP for Rochester and Strood.
Kelly Tolhurst, MP for Rochester and Strood.

According to property website Rightmove, the average house price in Rochester is just under £190,000, with Strood prices slightly lower at £185,000.

Prices have risen 3% since 2010, approximately in-line with the national average.

However, with good connections to London from both Rochester and Strood, homes near the stations command a considerable premium.

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