Dunton Plotlands facts for kids
The Dunton Plotlands was a special area in Dunton Wayletts, southern Essex, England. From the 1930s to the 1980s, many people lived here on small pieces of land. It was a unique community with a fascinating history.
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What Were the Plotlands?
The 'plotlands' were small areas of land sold in the early 1900s. People bought these plots to build simple homes. Some built weekend cottages for holidays. Others created small bungalows or even mini-farms called smallholdings. Many of these people came from busy London to enjoy the countryside.
Life During World War II
When Second World War started, life changed for the plotlands. Many people who used their plots only on weekends moved there permanently. They wanted to escape the dangers of the Blitz, which was the bombing of cities like London. During this time, the Dunton Plotlands had its largest population ever. It became a safe haven for many families.
Dunton Plotlands and Basildon
After the Second World War, a new town called Basildon was planned. This new town included the Dunton Plotlands and nearby areas like Laindon and Pitsea. Around 25,000 people lived in this wider area back then. Many homes had dirt roads and limited water supplies.
Dunton Plotlands Today
Today, the Dunton Plotlands is a peaceful place. It is located west of Laindon and the Langdon Hills. It sits on the edge of the Basildon district.
Langdon Nature Reserve
The Dunton Plotlands is now part of the Essex Wildlife Trust's Langdon Nature Reserve. This means it is protected for nature and wildlife. You can still see some of the original cottages and grass tracks.
Visit the Haven Plotlands Museum
The Langdon Visitor Centre is a great place to start your visit. You can also explore the Haven Plotlands Museum. This museum is inside a bungalow that has been restored. It shows what life was like for the people who lived here. You can learn about the area's natural history and its unique community. Many events about wildlife are held here throughout the year.
