The incredible £5bn new UK town being built with 9,000 houses | UK | News
A former RAF airbase in Oxfordshire’s Cherwell district is on track to become one of the UK’s most ambitious new towns, with a £5bn development plan including up to 9,000 homes, green spaces, new schools, leisure centres, restaurants, cafes and 30% affordable housing. Located just outside Bicester, Heyford Park will be built on the site of the former RAF Upper Heyford airbase, which was once home to Europe’s second longest runway. Purchased by developer Dorchester Living in 2009, the 1,200-acre brownfield site is now poised to become a fully functioning town.
Pending final planning approval from Cherwell District Council, construction could begin in autumn 2026, with a target of full completion set for 2042. The project is also being led by Proctor & Matthews Architects and renowned landscape architect Kim Wilkie and is planned to be home to 25,000 people.
Developers said the project had already taken shape following extensive consultation with residents, schools, local stakeholders and infrastructure partners such as Great Western Rail.
Paul Silver, CEO of Dorchester Living, said: “This is a pivotal moment in the evolution of Heyford Park. The masterplan we have presented is the result of years of careful thought and extensive collaboration with a number of different groups, including Heyford Park Parish, Great Western Rail, Heyford Park Schools and the wider local community.
“This is underpinned by our true belief that growth can be delivered in a community-led and environmentally responsible way.
“Our aim is to deliver something exceptional and exemplary for Oxfordshire and a national blueprint for how towns can and should be delivered across the UK, not only providing homes and jobs but also supporting a healthier, greener and truly future-ready lifestyle.
“From green energy and biodiversity to education, care and connectivity, we are laying the foundations for a community that will thrive for generations to come.”
More than 60% of the site will be devoted to green and blue infrastructure, including parks, orchards, aquatic facilities and walking paths.
Heyford Park also aims to become the UK’s first energy surplus city to produce more renewable energy than it consumes in a typical year.
As well as housing, Heyford Park plans to create more than 5,000 jobs, focusing on Clean Technology and low-carbon innovation.
