Four bright pupils from St Mary’s Catholic Primary School have been shortlisted in an exciting competition to name the streets in a new eco housing development on Cheltenham Road East, Churchdown.
Organised by Barnwood-based housebuilder Newland Homes, the competition invited local children to suggest themes for street names that reflect the community’s heritage, geography, and culture. The new development, recently granted planning permission, will feature 145 zero carbon homes powered entirely by renewable energy, setting a new standard for sustainable living in the area.
This initiative aims to engage young residents with their community while inspiring them to think about the positive legacy they can leave behind. The children were encouraged to draw from local history and environment to create meaningful and imaginative street name themes.
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Among many creative entries, four stood out to the judging panel at Newland Homes. Marko Djakovic, a Year 2 pupil, proposed electrical innovation and the zero carbon revolution as a theme. Leila Gunter, in Year 4, suggested street names inspired by Churchdown’s aviation history. Year 6 student Annabelle Mak chose local wildlife for her theme, while Jennifer O’Malley, Year 5, focused on inspirational women from Gloucestershire.
The finalists were honoured at a special assembly at St Mary’s, each receiving a book token as a reward for their creativity. The final street names will be approved by the local council in collaboration with community stakeholders.
Catherine Sheppard, Planning Manager at Newland Homes, commented, “Involving local children in the naming process not only celebrates Churchdown’s rich history but also ensures the next generation has a voice in shaping their hometown. The creativity from St Mary’s pupils was truly inspiring and helped us see new possibilities.”
Headteacher Liam Jordan added, “This competition sparked the pupils’ imagination and deepened their connection to our local area and notable figures from Gloucestershire. They were thrilled to have a chance to contribute to something so lasting.”
Local councillor Mary Jordan also praised the collaboration, saying, “It’s wonderful to see children actively involved in shaping their community. This partnership between St Mary’s and Newland Homes is a fantastic way to educate children about new technologies and the fight against climate change.”
Construction at the site is set to begin later this year, delivering homes ranging from one to five bedrooms, including 51 affordable homes. Nearly half of the land will be dedicated to public open spaces featuring play areas, meadows, and woodland planting designed to improve biodiversity and support local wildlife.
Newland Homes continues to build zero carbon houses across the South West, including locations in Wiltshire, North Somerset, Bristol, and Gloucestershire, demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainable development.