What does it take to build the next generation of New Towns?
With the Government aiming for 1.5 million new homes, the challenge isn’t just quantity—it’s quality.
At Harlow & Gilston Garden Town, we shared insights with the House of Lords New Towns Inquiry on how to create places where people truly thrive:
· Placemaking with Purpose – homes, jobs, leisure, all connected
· Designing for Change – Flexible, sustainable communities shaped for future lifestyles
· Nature at the Heart – Landscape-led planning and biodiversity as a foundation
· Health Through Design – Active travel corridors to boost wellbeing and social interaction
· Innovation Without Gimmicks – Adaptable designs for climate, tech, and demographic shifts
· Governance & Stewardship – Quality assurance and community voice embedded in planning
· Funding the Future – Early delivery of hubs and creative financing models
Building New Towns isn’t just about homes—it’s about creating resilient, inclusive, and future-proofed communities.
As an existing New Town, Harlow has experienced the challenges of growth first hand.
New neighbourhoods on the edge of urban areas must benefit both new and established communities and that means investment in existing places alongside new infrastructure and homes.
Government can help by working collaboratively with local delivery teams and providing financial support and expertise to deliver at scale.
Connecting old and new isn’t just physical—it’s social, economic, and cultural.
