
A former RAF airbase in the Cherwell district of Oxfordshire is on track to become one of the UK's most ambitious new towns, with a £5 billion development plan that includes up to 9,000 homes, green spaces, new schools, leisure centres, restaurants, coffee shops, and 30% of 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. Acquired in 2009 by developer Dorchester Living, 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 as soon as autumn 2026, with a full completion target set for 2042. The project is also being led by Proctor & Matthews Architects as well as renowned landscape architect Kim Wilkie, and is set to house up to 25,000 people.
Developers have said that the project has already been shaped by extensive consultation with residents, schools, local stakeholders, and infrastructure partners like Great Western Rail.
Paul Silver, CEO of Dorchester Living, said: "This is a pivotal moment in the evolution of Heyford Park. The masterplan we've submitted is the result of years of careful thinking and extensive collaboration with a variety of different groups including Heyford Park Parish, Great Western Rail, Heyford Park Schools and the wider local community.
"This is underpinned by our genuine belief that growth can be delivered in a way that's community-led and environmentally conscious.
"Our goal is to deliver something exceptional and exemplar for Oxfordshire, and a national blueprint for how towns can and should be delivered in the UK- a place that not only provides homes and jobs but supports a way of life that is healthier, greener and genuinely future-proof.

"From green energy and biodiversity to education, care and connectivity, we're laying the foundations for a community that will thrive for generations to come."
Over 60% of the site will be reserved for green and blue infrastructure including parks, orchards, water features, and walking trails.
Heyford Park is also aiming to be the UK's first energy surplus town generating more renewable energy than it consumes over the course of a typical year.
Alongside housing, Heyford Park plans to create over 5,000 jobs, with a focus on CleanTech and low-carbon innovation.
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