New towns: Creating communities, building trust, realising the opportunity
November 18, 2025
Report uncovers challenges and opportunities when it comes to how the public views new towns
Britain is facing an unprecedented housing challenge. Our new towns report on creating communities and building trust, powered by YouGov insights, explores public perception of new towns in the UK. It highlights what must change to earn lasting support for the New Towns Programme and other new communities.
Explore how new towns in Britain can become thriving communities through sustainable development, infrastructure-first planning, and putting people’s needs at the heart of every decision.
Our YouGov analysis suggests that 25 percent of British people find the idea of moving to a new town appealing, while nearly 62 percent find it unappealing. But this is more than just data. It’s a guide to shaping the next generation of vibrant, successful new towns and sustainable communities.
The findings are clear. Our goal is to build thriving communities and deliver positive environmental impact. To do that, we must:
- Change the narrative around new town development
- Rebuild public trust
- Deliver what people truly want and need from new housing and infrastructure
By listening, learning, and acting on these insights, we can help developers, local authorities, and other partners create places that transform lives for generations. Together, we can build new towns and sustainable communities across the UK.
Here are a few of our key findings.
Trust and perception
Public scepticism towards new towns is high. Only one in four people find new towns appealing, with many associating them with being ‘soulless’ or ‘poor quality’. Rebuilding trust in the development sector and changing perceptions of new towns is essential for the success of new town planning and delivery.
What people want
Here are the three top priorities for residents who would think about moving to a new town: Quality and longevity. Positive environment impact. And community wellbeing.
British people are attracted to good healthcare, shops, green spaces, and access to jobs and public transport.
Delivery and engagement
When important infrastructure—transport, schools, green spaces, and amenities—is built first, it helps people have confidence. It is key to thriving new communities.
It’s important to have meaningful community engagement from the outset. It helps foster local identity, pride, and vibrant culture, supporting successful placemaking and long-term stewardship.
We’re deeply involved in the planning, design, and delivery of new communities. Some of these include work on Brabazon in Bristol, Waverley in South Yorkshire, Alconbury Weald in Cambridgeshire, Barking Riverside in London, and Otterpool Park in Kent.
Drawing from our experience and review of the data, our report sets out 12 recommendations for the development industry. These include:
- Ways to inspire true identity and pride in new communities.
- How to set up the right delivery models.
- How to embed resilience and longevity. It can be done through innovative, adaptable design.
Read our full report in full to learn more about what makes a successful new town in the eyes of the public.
Download Report New Towns: Creating Communities, Building Trust.
