Many of the principles of urban design promoted at Poundbury have long been championed by the Prince of Wales and have since become part of mainstream planning policy
THE PAST , PRESENT AND FUTURE
Poundbury ’ s unique origins have laid way for a rich history in its short 22 years in Dorset
In 1987 the local planning authority , West Dorset District Council , selected Duchy land to the west of Dorchester for future expansion of the town . As The Prince Of Wales re-examined many of the precepts of urban and rural planning in his book ‘ A Vision of Britain ’, he took the opportunity as the Duke of Cornwall to work with the council and existing local communities to plan an exemplary urban extension to this ancient market town . Andrew Hamilton , Poundbury Development Director MVO , recalls , “ The architect and urban planner Leon Krier was appointed to masterplan the development in accordance with the principles established by the Prince of Wales , and The Duchy of Cornwall began construction of Poundbury in 1993 . “ Many of the principles of urban design promoted at Poundbury have long been championed by the Prince of Wales and have since become part of mainstream planning policy .” What started as a collection of plans and architectural blueprints by the Prince of Wales and his team of architects is now a living , thriving community . The uniquely designed housing , wide picturesque streets and snug courtyards give Poundbury a distinctive appeal and character all of its own .
Now , 22 years on , Poundbury reflects the hard work , expertise and tremendous ambition of those visionary architects , builders and craftsman who have overseen each building . Minister of State for Housing and Planning , Brandon Lewis , commended the urban design and build quality achieved in Poundbury after he visited last year . “ As I saw for myself last November , Poundbury is a great example of a truly mixed community , combining affordable and open market housing and all built to excellent design standards ,” he said . “ It ’ s places like Poundbury that drive me to want to push up not just building the new homes we need but the look and quality of them , so people everywhere in the country can benefit from high quality housing . “ I congratulate everyone involved in making this a great place to live .” Around two thirds complete there are approximately 2,100 people employed in the 173 businesses , and 2,600 people living in 1,450 homes in Poundbury . In the next few years that will readily increase with the addition of 500 homes and 5,000 square metres of commercial space in the North East Quadrant , alongside the relocation of Damers School to Poundbury in September 2016 . By 2025 , with the addition of the North West Quadrant , the development will expand to at least 2,200
Many of the principles of urban design promoted at Poundbury have long been championed by the Prince of Wales and have since become part of mainstream planning policy
Andrew Hamilton , Poundbury Development Director MVO
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