Construction has started on site of a brand new homes development in Rainham.

Homebuilders Bellway have begun work at a site off Lower Rainham Road where it plans to deliver 79 new homes.

Of these, 59 houses will be offered for private sale and 20 affordable properties will be made available for rent or shared ownership.

Medway council's planning committee voted unanimously in favour of the scheme in February.

An area of public open space and an equipped children’s play area will also be provided within the 8.5-acre site next to Berengrave Nature Reserve.

Mike Smith, Construction Director for Bellway Kent, said: “We have worked extremely closely with planning officers at Medway Council to bring forward a development which not only meets the area’s housing needs but also reflects its attractive semi-rural location.

“An area of public open space will be created at the northern end of the site while a central green featuring an equipped play area will be provided at the heart of the development.

“The site represents an attractive and sustainable location for residential development."

"Additional planting will be carried out along the western boundary to form a natural buffer to the neighbouring nature reserve.

“The development will include a range of three and four-bedroom properties for sale on the open market, while a mix of apartments and houses will be made available for affordable rent and shared ownership.

He added: “The site represents an attractive and sustainable location for residential development.

"In addition to the neighbouring Berengrave Nature Reserve, it is close to other areas of outdoor space, such as Motney Hill Reserve and Bloors Lane Community Woodland, as well as being just over a mile north of the town centre.

“We look forward to starting construction work on the site and to releasing the first homes for sale later this year.”

As part of the planning agreement for the development, Bellway will provide funding of more than £760,000 for local services.

Contributions will include £420,000 for education and £159,000 for open space and outdoor sports.

Read more: All the latest news from Medway