Prince of Wales Visits Thicketmead

The Prince of Wales recently visited the site of Thicketmead, a development being built on the edge of Midsomer Norton near Bath. Robert Adam was commissioned by the Duchy of Cornwall to produce a masterplan outlining the design of the site, which would be developed by Persimmon Homes.  

The design creates a village atmosphere within the development, avoiding any tendency towards monotony and sterility that is all too common in the modern market. The success of the project has been largely due to the close consultation between Robert Adam and Persimmon Homes with the involvement of the local public from the outset. The great care and attention devoted to the use of correct classical detailing and materials that harmonise with the local vernacular, has resulted in a development that has its own individual identity, whilst still relating positively to the neighbouring town and area.  

Prince Charles, who has been involved in the scheme from the outset, was said to have been impressed by the development that in a manner similar to the famous Poundbury village near Dorchester, advocates the design of modern housing in tune with local needs and the traditional character of the area. The project is particularly exciting due to the involvement of one of the major house builders in the UK. Thicketmead is evidence that homes can be constructed with the utmost consideration of the local vernacular whilst remaining commercially viable and cost effective.