A model urban village on the outskirts of Aylesbury is celebrating 20 years since it was launched as a new approach to community living.
Fairford Leys was officially unveiled in November 2004 and began welcoming residents and businesses the following year. Built on land owned by the Ernest Cook Trust, the development now includes almost 2,000 homes alongside shops, cafés, a pub, school, health facilities and community spaces.
Michael Birnie, director of land, property and commercial development at the trust, said Fairford Leys had become a national reference point for placemaking. He said the development enabled the trust to generate income to reinvest in education, adding that long-term, community-focused land management helped people and places thrive.
The master plan, designed by architects John Simpson and Partners, aimed to foster a strong sense of community.
Fairford Leys also pioneered the use of a design code to preserve the quality and character of its buildings, principles which remain in force today.
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