Case Study: Ingress Park, Kent

Originally developed in 2000 and set across 103 acres of grounds, the development has a diverse range of freehold and leasehold properties, which includes high-rise blocks and listed buildings, as well as extensive green and public spaces.  In total, 2,224 units contribute to the service charge. At the estate’s heart is the Grade II listed Ingress Park Abbey, as well as eight Grade II follies dotted around the grounds. While the Abbey is privately owned and falls outside our remit, FirstPort is responsible for the follies, as well as a cliff which marks one boundary to the development.  

The extensive grounds feature approximately 500 trees, all of which have preservation orders, including the juvenile trees. There are two large playgrounds, which must be kept in safe working order. 

With such extensive green areas, the Development Manager and gardening team meet weekly to discuss priority tasks. This includes planning for and overseeing projects such as planting and replanting, and seasonal upkeep such as hedge management and mowing during the growing season.  

The development has an RMC that oversees the open spaces. The regional operations team meets the RMC every six weeks and attends its AGM. The development also has an unrecognised neighbourhood watch and residents’ associations, which the Development Manager also meets with every six weeks. The team is available for face-to-face meetings with individual residents — the office has an open-door policy.