Stirling Fields

Creating a sustainable new community through design-led placemaking

Client

Keepmoat Homes

Location

Northstowe, Cambridgeshire

RIBA Work Stages

0-6

Services

Architecture, Landscape Architecture

Overview

Stirling Fields is a vibrant new neighbourhood within Northstowe, delivering 300 high-quality homes within a landscape-led network of green spaces, active travel routes and welcoming public realm. Built on the site of a former RAF airfield, the development transforms previously developed land into a sustainable mixed-tenure community that responds to local housing needs while creating a distinctive sense of place.

Developed in partnership with Homes England, South Cambridgeshire District Council and Keepmoat Homes, the scheme integrates architecture, landscape and community infrastructure to support healthier lifestyles, encourage social connection and promote long-term environmental resilience. The result is a connected neighbourhood designed to foster belonging, strengthen community identity and create lasting value for future generations.

Designing for people and place

At the heart of the design is a commitment to creating a healthy, walkable and socially connected neighbourhood. The masterplan prioritises walking and cycling, supported by community-focused streets, integrated traffic calming measures and carefully considered parking solutions that enhance rather than dominate the public realm.

A diverse range of bespoke homes and apartment buildings provide choice and accessibility while contributing to varied and characterful streetscapes. Designed in line with Building for a Healthy Life principles, the development delivers safe, memorable and welcoming environments that encourage interaction, wellbeing and a strong sense of belonging

Landscape as the framework

Landscape architecture plays a fundamental role in defining Stirling Fields. An extensive network of green links and ten interconnected open spaces weaves throughout the development, creating opportunities for recreation, biodiversity and social connection.

These spaces have been carefully designed to support everyday life, from informal doorstep play and family-friendly green spaces to pedestrian and cycle routes that encourage active lifestyles. Clear sightlines and natural surveillance help create safe environments for children while fostering stronger community connections between neighbours.

The landscape-led approach ensures that nature is embedded throughout the development, strengthening residents’ relationship with the outdoors and creating a more resilient and attractive environment for future generations.

Delivering sustainable communities

Sustainability is embedded throughout the development. Homes are being delivered using closed-panel timber frame construction, improving thermal performance, reducing waste and lowering operational energy demands. Photovoltaic panels and electric vehicle infrastructure further support the transition to a low-carbon future.

Sustainable drainage features are integrated into the landscape through swales and biodiverse planting, helping manage surface water, enhance ecological value and contribute to climate resilience. Together, these measures create a place that is both environmentally responsible and enjoyable to live in.

At a glance

Scale

300 homes and a commercial unit forming part of the wider Northstowe new town masterplan.

Design

Landscape-led neighbourhood with integrated play spaces, green corridors and an edible landscape.

Sustainability

Modern methods of construction, SuDS and green infrastructure support long-term environmental resilience.

Wellbeing

Doorstep play, LEAPs, LAPs and walkable green spaces encourage active, healthy lifestyles.

Community

Shared open spaces and play-on-the-way features promote interaction and a strong sense of belonging.

Impact

Helping establish a vibrant, sustainable new neighbourhood within one of the UK's most significant new settlements.

Lasting Impact

As part of the wider Northstowe vision, Stirling Fields contributes to the creation of a thriving new community that prioritises wellbeing, sustainability and quality of life. Through integrated architecture and landscape design, the project establishes a strong foundation for long-term growth and community connection.

Shortlisted for the Housing Design Awards 2022, the scheme demonstrates how thoughtful design, innovative construction and landscape-led placemaking can come together to create a distinctive and sustainable neighbourhood for the future.

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