Retirement specialist McCarthy & Stone has seen more than half of the 55 apartments at Thwaytes Court, Herne Bay, snapped up since the development opened its doors.

Thwaytes Court, in Minster Drive, is proving popular with retirees looking to enjoy lower maintenance and an independent lifestyle in a property they continue to own.

The development is just a short walk from the seafront and offers a host of specialist features including 24-hour emergency call points, electrical sockets at a raised height to reduce bending, illuminated light switches, a camera entry system, intruder alarm and easy grip lever taps. Prices start from £168,950.

Holmes Court in Tonbridge, which is made up of 63 one and two-bedroom “Later Living” apartments, is another of McCarthy & Stone’s developments. Only three, one-bedroom apartments remain. Properties are priced from £139,950

In Cheriton, near Folkestone, McCarthy & Stone is selling a range of one and two-bedroom “Assisted Living” apartments at Portman Court. These are available exclusively for those over the age of 70.

Portman Court is a complex of 70 one and two-bedroom apartments, developed specifically to bridge the gap between conventional retirement developments and residential care.

Features include 24- hour emergency call points, a level access shower and bath, an electrically operated window in the kitchen, raised electrical sockets and wheelchair accessible. Properties are priced from £138,950.

For information, call 0800 919132 or go to www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk