Home sick Aussie finds Australian living at Fortuna Park

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Raised just outside Melbourne, in the wide open spaces of Australian’s wine country, 28 year old Michael Phillips just couldn’t imagine living in a city. But when he viewed the show property a Fortuna Park, a new joint development by Countryside Annington (Colchester) Ltd, it was love at first sight.  Set just minutes from rolling English countryside, the property’s open plan contemporary living space reminded Michael of home.

“The maisonette felt really spacious and was full of natural light” says Michael, a Computer Broker.  “In Australia I grew up in modern open plan housing and that is what I wanted here in the UK.”

“I also work from home” continues Michael, “so the maisonette had to suit my living and working life.  I thought the second bedroom would be ideal for my study.”

Comprising 96 homes, Fortuna Park offers one and two bedroom apartments and a selection of houses ranging from two to five bedrooms - with prices starting at just £172,950 for a two bedroom maisonette.

Previously renting in nearby Wivenhoe, Michael and his girlfriend Vicky wanted somewhere closer to Colchester where they both had friends and family living. “My sister lives in a similar maisonette down the road” explains Vicky, “Mum and Dad and my little brother are also round the corner and Mike has cousins living in Colchester”.

Vicky Helens, 23, an air hostess for Virgin Atlantic, grew up in the surrounding area and Michael has been based there since moving to the UK five years ago. “We wanted to buy in a new development because we liked the idea of being able to just move in without having to do any work, and with no onward chain” explains Vicky. “I looked on the Internet and found Fortuna Park. We were one of the first couples to view the show property and make an offer. The maisonette felt like home immediately, especially because, as one of the first buyers, we were able to chose the flooring ourselves”.

Served by excellent road and public transport links the development is ideally situated for commuters. From Colchester railway station London Liverpool Street can be reached in under an hour.

“Michael works from home so doesn’t have a daily work commute but he loves the fact that he can walk into town to meet his mate or pay about £5 for a taxi,” says Vicky. “When I am working I fly from Gatwick or Heathrow and the drive is just over an hour which is ideal. When I fly long haul I am away for two to five days. It is good to know that Michael has our friends and family to keep him company. After flying around the world it is heaven to return to our peaceful home.”

The properties at Fortuna Park boast a contemporary specification with features such as Paula Rosa kitchens with stainless steel appliances and sleek contemporary bathrooms, offering modern living solutions with the benefit of beautiful countryside right on the doorstep.  The second phase will be released for sale in Spring 2007. Prices are yet to be released for two, three and four bedroom houses. For further details telephone the Sales and Marketing Suite on 01206 549 760 or visit www.fortunapark.co.uk.

ENDS

For further information please contact Joanna Bentley or Amy Lambert at Trimedia Harrison Cowley on 0207 404 6777.

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