The island is well positioned to capitalise on growing concerns around pollution in big cities, it has been claimed.

New global research from HSBC shows homebuyers are fleeing urban areas because of worries.

The latest ’Beyond the Bricks’ survey undertaken by the bank shows an overall net movement of people out of cities of 4% globally and 6% in the UK.

More than one in 10 (13%) Brits moving out of cities made the move to escape the impact of pollution on their wellbeing, more than those who moved to retire (7%) or pursue more career opportunities (10%).

Mental health is another major trend driving movement, with 15% of Brits saying the potential for improved mental health elsewhere influenced their decision to ’escape to the country’, with more than one in five (22%) moving for a more active lifestyle and 28% moving for a safer environment for their families.

Another important factor allowing these city switchers to escape pollution and alleviate the day-to-day stress of city life is technology.

In fact, the rise of flexible working and the increasing ability to work from home has now encouraged more than one in 10 Brits (13%) to move away from cities, while 16% said they moved for a better sense of community.

The figures follow the most recent HSBC Expat Explorer Survey, which found the Isle of Man benefits from a better work culture and work-life balance than in many other locations around the world.

The survey found 77% of expats found their work-life balance to be better in the island than in their home country while 73% agreed that the environment, including air pollution and water quality, is better than their home country.

John Goddard, head of retail banking for HSBC Isle of Man and Channel Islands, said: ’A new generation of people are starting to value their health more than the location of their home. People who are turning their backs on cities are doing so due to pollution and stress, as health and wellbeing rise up their list of priorities.

’Moving house has become the pollution solution and the Isle of Man is well placed to capitalise on this trend if it wants to attract top talent from major urban hubs as part of its sustainable population and growth strategies. The island benefits from fantastic countryside and offers an enviable work-life balance, short commute times and family-friendly facilities, and all that should resonate with those looking to move away from urban environments.’

To help people who are looking to buy a house in the Isle of Man, HSBC is putting on a Mortgage Open Day, providing free guidance on a range of home buying subjects.

The Mortgage Open Day is at the Douglas Branch on Thursday, June 20, 9am to 5pm