Masterplan Overview
Our emerging masterplan sets out a clear and coordinated vision for the future of the site. It provides a long-term framework that brings together land use, movement, landscape, infrastructure, and placemaking strategies into a single, coherent plan. The masterplanning process considers the site in its wider context—environmental, social, and economic—to ensure that future development is both deliverable and resilient.
A key element of this process is early engagement with stakeholders, technical specialists, and the local community. Their input helps shape a masterplan that responds positively to local needs while meeting broader strategic objectives. As assessments progress, the masterplan will continue to evolve, refined through ongoing technical work and consultation.
Alignment with Garden City Principles
The proposed masterplan for the site will build upon the history of Letchworth and align with the key principles that make a Garden City. The development of this masterplan will form the foundation of any future planning application which comes forward for the site.
As the world’s first Garden City the design of Letchworth Garden City and was based on the ideas of Ebenezer Howard, with the plan designed by Barry Parker and Raymond Unwin. Howard’s vision was to combine the appeals of town and country, this was broadly based around three Key principles for a Garden City:
- 1) For People and Planet
- 2) For a Fairer Society
- 3) Land, Finance and Practical Idealism
More recently these design principles for Letchworth Garden City have been updated for modern requirements as part of the Local Plan.
These new principles seek to create a sequence of outdoor spaces related to each other and wider setting, which might be achieved through use of the following:
- 1. Vista; articulated building lines and open tree lined axis
- 2. Closure; breaking down the street into sequences
- 4. Group Design: Creating a sense of place and identity
- 3. Accents; creating visual interest and sense of design
Foundation for Future Planning Applications
Once finalised, the masterplan will form the foundation for any future planning application on the site. It will guide subsequent detailed proposals, ensuring that all future phases of development align with the agreed vision and key principles. This provides clarity for decision-makers, stakeholders, and local residents, helping ensure that future planning submissions are consistent, coordinated, and transparent.