A simple guide to what the plans actually show
The Houlton masterplan drawings can look busy at first, but once broken down, they clearly explain what is built, what is planned, and how everything connects. Here’s how to read them.
1. Key Phases (Coloured Areas)
The site is divided into Key Phases, which show the order and location of development:
- Key Phase 1 – Largely built and occupied
- Key Phases 2, 3 & 4 – Future residential development
- District Centre Key Phase – A dedicated central zone, separate from housing phases
This shows Houlton is being delivered in planned stages, not all at once.
This shows Houlton is being delivered in planned stages, not all at once.
2. Existing Development (Numbered Plots)
Numbered areas on the plan represent completed or committed developments, each linked to a specific house builder.
Builders shown on the plan include:
- Redrow Homes
- William Davis Homes
- Bellway
- Davidsons Homes
- Morris Homes
- Countryside Properties
- Crest Nicholson
- Lovell Homes
- Civic Living
- Francis Jackson
- Mulberry Homes
- David Wilson Homes
- The Pioneers
These areas form continuous neighbourhoods, mainly across the western and central parts of Houlton.
3. District Centre (Central Hub)
The District Centre is clearly marked as its own key phase, separate from housing.
Its central location shows it is intended to:
- Serve all phases, not just one neighbourhood
- Be reachable via walking and cycling routes
- Sit alongside main movement corridors rather than at the edge of the site
4. NEAPs & Green Infrastructure
The framework plan identifies areas reserved for NEAPs (Neighbourhood Equipped Areas for Play) and open space.
These spaces are distributed across phases rather than concentrated in one location, indicating:
- Local access to play areas
- Integration with green corridors and footpaths
5. Walking & Cycling Routes (Bold Lines)
A clearly marked main walking and cycling route runs through the development.
This route connects:
- Existing housing areas
- Schools
- Future residential phases
- The District Centre
6. Roads & Movement
Named roads such as:
- Houlton Way
- Signal Drive
- Main Street
- Station Avenue
- Butlers Leap
- Normandy Hill
form the structural spine of the development.
7. Schools & Key Facilities
The plans clearly mark:
- Houlton Through School
- St Gabriel’s School
- David Lloyd Club
- Dollman Farm (existing feature)
8. Public Transport
Bus routes shown include:
- Bus Service 96
- Bus Services 96 and D1