A survey from the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and YouGov reveals that the UK public has serious doubts about whether the next generation of new towns will meet future needs – and has strong views on how to get them right.
While post war new towns, like Stevenage, Crawley, and Milton Keynes transformed living standards for millions, the survey shows their legacy is mixed.
Asked what words came to mind when thinking of these towns, respondents most often used negative terms such as “concrete”, “boring”, and “soulless” – with many simply answering “roundabouts”. Some, however, were keen to point to the potential and ambition of the original new towns, even where their goals weren’t met.
These findings echo the recommendations of the RTPI’s Futureproof New Towns interim report, which draws on lessons from international new towns to demonstrate to policymakers and planners what to do – and what not to do – when planning new towns.
The interim report found that successful new towns are dependent on community leadership and engagement, underpinned by consistent, high‑quality design and strong infrastructure connections.
The findings come as the public awaits the delayed publication of the New Towns Taskforce’s report and recommend locations for England’s next new towns. The Taskforce’s proposals, originally due in July, are expected to be published after the summer recess alongside the Government’s response.
Dr Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the RTPI, said: “Britain’s first generation of new towns changed lives – but they also locked in outdated ideas. The bold decision by the Government to create a new generation of new towns offers us a chance to get it right – to create ambitious, community-led places that are designed with communities, for communities.”
Professor John Sturzaker FRTPI, University of Hertfordshire, Research Project Lead, said: "There is a lot to learn from new towns around the world. Developments across Europe, Asia and the Americas show us what can be achieved when planning's power is harnessed to create flourishing, sustainable communities. Our aim is for these findings to be used help make sure that this next generation of new towns in England are adaptable to the inevitable changes we face in the future.”
Over summer 2025, the research team, led by the University of Hertfordshire, will visit selected international case studies to deepen insights. The full UK-focused report with policy recommendations will be published in autumn 2025, with an international edition to follow at the end of the year.
