PROJECTS
A strategic country park masterplan transforming former farmland into a resilient landscape that supports biodiversity and everyday access to nature.
Prestley Country Park, Alconbury Weald,Cambridgeshire
Strategic masterplanning by Davies White Ltd, Prestley Country Park is a 63–65 hectare strategic green infrastructure project forming one of four primary open spaces within the Alconbury Weald development framework. Located on the south-eastern edge of the new settlement near Huntingdon, the Country Park transforms former arable farmland into a multifunctional landscape that supports biodiversity recovery, public access, informal recreation and long-term community wellbeing. Commissioned by Urban & Civic and delivered in collaboration with Nene Park Trust, the masterplan establishes a clear landscape structure that integrates ecology, heritage and natural play within a phased delivery programme aligned with the wider development.
The emerging masterplan supports measurable Biodiversity Net Gain through the creation of a robust habitat mosaic including woodland expansion, species-rich meadows, wetlands, hedgerows and orchard landscapes. Informed by ecological surveys and landscape analysis, the proposals strengthen existing habitat corridors and contribute to the wider Nature Recovery Network, including links to the Great Stukeley Railway Cutting SSSI.
Inclusive access and community use are embedded throughout the design, with step-free primary routes, multi-generational play opportunities, sensory planting and flexible gathering spaces supporting a wide range of users. The proposals align with national policy including the Environment Act 2021, Natural England Green Infrastructure Standards and Play England guidance, ensuring the Country Park delivers measurable environmental and social value as part of the wider Alconbury Weald masterplan.
With long-term stewardship anticipated through Nene Park Trust, the masterplan provides a clear framework for phased implementation, management and adaptation as the surrounding development evolves. Prestley Country Park will play a key role in establishing a strong landscape identity for Alconbury Weald, delivering accessible green infrastructure that supports health, wellbeing and everyday connection with nature while contributing to long-term ecological resilience.
Delivery: 2025 - 2026 Client: Urban + Civic and The Nene Park Trust
The design responds to the site’s distinctive context, including Prestley Wood Scheduled Ancient Monument, historic ridge-and-furrow landform patterns, existing public rights of way and connections to the wider green infrastructure network. These features provide both constraints and opportunities, shaping a landscape framework that protects cultural heritage while strengthening ecological resilience and creating accessible routes and destinations for a growing community. The proposals establish a legible network of paths, gathering spaces and informal activity areas that support everyday use without over-formalising the rural character of the site.
