Schoolchildren in Cossington have helped name a new housing development in their village after taking part in a creative competition at their primary school.
Sixty pupils aged seven to 11 at Cossington Church of England Primary School were invited to come up with names inspired by their local area. The children spent time discussing the village, its surroundings and what makes it special before submitting their ideas.
Picture credit: Bellway
First prize was awarded to Bea, who suggested the name “Treetops” for the Bellway development. Charlie came second with “Rosemead,” while Harry placed third with “Oaklington.” Each of the winners received certificates and prizes in a special school assembly.
Another pupil, Jack, received a special mention for going a step further by suggesting names for individual streets within the development.
Headteacher Matt Yandell said the activity was an enjoyable and valuable experience for the pupils.
“The children had a great time coming up with names for what will become a new part of our community,” he said. “They thought very carefully about ideas that reflected Cossington and the surrounding area. They were incredibly proud to see their creativity recognised.”
The children were also keen to learn more about how new homes are built and have been invited to see the construction work once it begins, giving them a chance to understand how a development takes shape.
The new housing site will comprise 78 properties for private sale, with a mix of two-bedroom bungalows, and three, four and five-bedroom houses. The site will also feature 52 affordable homes for low-cost rent or shared ownership, ranging from one-bedroom maisonettes and two-bedroom bungalows to two, three and four-bedroom houses.
Picture credit: Bellway
It will include public open space, footpaths and a children’s play area, with land set aside to allow for the future expansion of the village primary school.
Representatives from Bellway East Midlands visited the school to present the awards and talk to pupils about the plans. The children have also been invited to visit the site once construction is underway to learn more about how houses are built.
The development, being built by Bellway, will include new homes alongside public open space, footpaths and a children’s play area. Land has also been set aside to allow for the future expansion of Cossington Church of England Primary School.
