Tash Baskerville – Operations Manager

17.02.2025

The Next Generation of New Towns

The UK is facing a critical housing shortage, and the government is stepping up with a transformative solution: a new wave of well-planned, sustainable new towns. The New Towns Taskforce, appointed by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), is leading this ambitious effort to create thriving communities that address economic growth, environmental sustainability, and housing demand.

Why New Towns Matter

With rising housing costs, limited availability, and increasing demand, millions struggle to find affordable homes. The latest Census data shows a 13.6% increase across 10 years in adult children living with their parents due to housing unaffordability. New towns provide a solution by offering planned, well-connected, and diverse housing options.

Strategically designed new towns promote economic growth by attracting investment and creating jobs. They also support sustainability through eco-friendly infrastructure, green spaces, and reduced reliance on cars.

Key Features of the Next-Generation New Towns

For success, new towns must be:

  • Vision-Led & Identity-Focused
    Each town will have a clear, unique vision to create a strong sense of place
  • Higher Density & Walkable
    Smart urban planning will prioritize walkability, reducing congestion and emissions
  • Affordable & Diverse Housing Stock
    A mix of social, affordable, and private homes will ensure inclusivity
  • Well-Connected
    Integrated public transport and cycling infrastructure will enhance connectivity
  • Economically Vibrant
    Business-friendly environments will generate employment opportunities
  • Environmentally Sustainable
    Green infrastructure and net-zero targets will combat climate change
  • Community-Centric
    Schools, healthcare, cultural, and recreational spaces will be built from the outset
  • Long-Term Stewardship
    Governance models will ensure towns remain well-maintained and future-proofed

Progress & Next Steps

The Taskforce has received over 100 site suggestions, indicating enthusiasm for new town development. These have yet to be revealed but are most likely in the South West, South East and East of the UK. Most proposals focus on urban extensions, but standalone settlements are also being considered. The next phase involves site selection, refining delivery models, and securing long-term investment.

Key priorities include:

  • Establishing funding structures for sustainable development
  • Defining affordable housing strategies to enhance accessibility
  • Strengthening governance and land acquisition frameworks
  • Conducting public consultations to align developments with community needs
Landscaping plan with Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) for Vistry Group Development in Cornwall

How Architects Can Help

Local architects play a crucial role in shaping the success of new towns by designing spaces that encourage community engagement, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal. By integrating local heritage, innovative design, and more environmentally conscious materials, architects can help create towns that are both functional and inspiring. Collaboration with planners, developers, and local communities ensures that the built environment enhances quality of life while supporting long-term urban resilience.

Conclusion: A Sustainable Future for Housing

The next generation of new towns offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to tackle the UK’s housing crisis while promoting economic resilience and environmental sustainability. Through strategic planning, government support, and public engagement, these new communities will set a benchmark for smart, sustainable urban development.

There are many opportunities to develop land in line with planning allowances, especially considering the National Planning Policy Framework’s (NPPF) new focus on plan-making. There is also a change to the National Development Management Policy (NDMP) which could streamline planning applications.

If you have a project in mind, we are at hand to help, get in touch today. 

Further Reading:
Building New Towns for the Future
Work on New Towns to Begin in 2029

Written by Tash Baskerville

Tash is a keen community leader working on several place shaping projects with local groups and councils. She has a penchant for public realm improvements, gardening and technical death metal, sometimes all at once.