Q&A Series: Why Poundbury Works for Young Families

Our Q&A series continues to address the questions that matter most to our community, based on topics covered at our General Meeting in September. After exploring maintenance responsibilities, we turn to a topic that shapes Poundbury's future: what makes this place work for young families, and how can young people get started here?

This Week's Question: What can be done to make Poundbury an attractive place for young people who want to come and raise a family?

It's a vital question—because a thriving community needs families at all life stages. The good news? Poundbury already offers young families a rare combination of lovely homes close to a diversity of jobs and amenities, all in a walkable community. Here's what makes it special and how to get started if you're a young person interested in moving here.

Education Within Walking Distance

Damers First School sits right in Poundbury, and The Prince of Wales School serves the catchment area. For older children, Dorchester Middle School and Thomas Hardye School are nearby. Children living in Poundbury can walk and cycle safely to school—no morning traffic chaos, no lengthy commutes. It's the kind of independence that benefits both children and parents.

Damers First School

Career Opportunities on Your Doorstep

Poundbury's affordable commercial space supports both traditional employment and entrepreneurship. Established employers like RiskStop Group and professional services firms provide career opportunities, while the supportive environment has enabled professionals to launch their own businesses—from photography studios to consultancies. Whether you're seeking employment or considering starting your own business, opportunities exist locally while maintaining work-life balance (discover more businesses on our Shopping, Eating and Services section of the LovePoundbury Virtual Community Hub).

Community Life and Activities

Poundbury's location provides excellent access to sport and recreation for all ages. Dorchester Cricket Club, Dorchester Town FC, and Dorchester Rugby Club offer opportunities for participation and spectating, read more on our Sports, Play & Activities page. Combined with a multitude of community activities, regular events and markets at venues like Queen Mother Square, and the informal connections more easily made in walkable neighbourhoods, families find plenty of ways to get involved and build friendships.

Family-Friendly by Design

The Great Field provides extensive play areas while smaller parks throughout Poundbury offer safe spaces near homes. The pedestrian-friendly design means reaching shops, services, and amenities on foot—creating more family time and less traffic time. Parents can let children develop independence gradually, knowing the environment supports safe exploration.

The Great Field

Healthcare Close to Home

Poundbury benefits from excellent healthcare access at all levels, including two GP surgeries, and the nearby Dorset County Hospital. The hospital is currently undergoing significant expansion to enhance services for the local population, ensuring families have access to quality healthcare when they need it. Combined with local dental practices and pharmacies within walking distance, young families can access essential health services without lengthy journeys.

Best of Both Worlds

Dorset's stunning coastline and countryside are on your doorstep, while rail connections provide easy London access for work or leisure. Young families are not choosing between opportunity and quality of life—Poundbury offers both. Visit Local Attractions to learn more

Getting Started

Ready to explore what Poundbury can offer your young family? Here's how to begin:

• Visit during community events like the Dorset Food & Arts Festival to experience the Poundbury spirit, or check out walks on the Poundbury Dig

• Contact schools directly about enrollment and visits; check out Education & Schools information on our website

• Connect through the Community Association of Poundbury at Lovepoundbury

• Explore business opportunities with the Duchy of Cornwall (01305 250533) and Symonds and Sampson (01305 261008), and check out our Working in Poundbury page

  
  

Your Experience Matters

Are you a young family who's made Poundbury home? We'd love to hear what drew you here and how it's working out. Your insights could help others considering the same move.

Got a question about life in Poundbury? Email us at secretary@lovepoundbury.org and your questions might feature at the next General Meeting of the CAofP on January 27th 2026

This answer is now available in our FAQ section for future reference.