Rare and historic converted properties will be released at Higgins Homes' development, the Old Hospital, in Maidstone town centre, later this month.

The apartments, set in a former Victorian hospital, are all individual and packed full of period features ranging from original flooring and wall panelling to dado and picture rails.

With just 17 apartments available in the renowned building, the homes will represent a unique addition to the Kent property market.

The Grade II listed former ophthalmic and aural hospital is being sensitively converted into a range of studios, one, two and three-bedroom luxury apartments by Higgins Homes, the award-winning builder.

Jeremy Marcus, sales and marketing director of Higgins Homes, said: "The Old Hospital is a historic landmark in the centre of Maidstone, so we wanted to create a selection of properties which will allow a diverse range of people to live there. The main hospital building is being completely renovated and we are preserving everything we can, from the spectacular colonnade gallery to the original cornicing.

"There is nothing quite like this on the market at the moment, so we are expecting these properties to sell very quickly."

Set around a landscaped courtyard, 57 new homes are also being created on this central brownfield site behind the High Street, just off Church Street.

These properties combine sleek contemporary glass panels and wooden panelling with period-style stonework to reflect the historic buildings.

Each apartment is fitted with a contemporary kitchen from a leading designer, which incorporates a stainless steel oven and hob, an integrated fridge freezer and a washer-dryer.

Prices will be released on Saturday, February 27. To register interest, contact Higgins Homes on 01438 746 930.