Bracknell, located in Berkshire, was designated as a New Town in 1949 as part of the post-World War II development programme aimed at alleviating housing shortages and redistributing population from London. Prior to this designation, Bracknell was a small village, with its history tracing back to the Domesday Book. For families who lived there before it became a New Town, it would have been a community largely influenced by rural and agricultural activities, surrounded by countryside and known for its local markets and fairs. The transportation facilities and local amenities would have been quite limited compared to today’s standards.
In the 1950s and 1960s, Bracknell underwent significant changes as part of its New Town development, attracting many new residents. It was during this time that extensive housing estates and new infrastructure were developed. The town was designed to offer a modern living environment, with ample green spaces, efficient roadways, and incorporated industrial areas to create employment opportunities. For families moving there in this era, Bracknell presented a fresh start with more modern housing and amenities, a stark contrast to urban living in London at the time. New schools, shopping centres, and healthcare facilities aimed to provide a balanced and sustainable community, attracting a diverse population to the area.