Newton Aycliffe is a town in County Durham, England, recognized as the first "New Town" in the North, designated in 1947 under the New Towns Act. Its development was a post-World War II initiative aimed at creating a new community to house the workforce of a major industrial estate The town's origins are rooted in World War II, when the area was chosen for a Royal Ordnance Factory (ROF). The factory, largely staffed by women known as the "Aycliffe Angels," produced ammunition for the war effort. The location was ideal due to its marshy land, which provided natural camouflage from enemy aircraft. New Town Vision: After the war, the factory was converted into an industrial estate. The town of Newton Aycliffe was then planned and built on the poor farmland and moorland nearby, with the aim of creating a model community based on the principles of the Beveridge Report. The plan was to provide high-quality housing and a "classless" society where people from all backgrounds could live and work together. The town's masterplan emphasized green spaces, tree-lined avenues, and a structured layout. Over the decades, it has grown and evolved, incorporating private housing developments and becoming a key residential and commercial center in South Durham. Aycliffe Business Park: The town's economy is strongly linked to its industrial roots. Aycliffe Business Park is one of the largest business parks in the North East, home to a number of high-profile companies. Key Employers: Major employers in the area include Hitachi Rail Europe, which has a train assembly plant, and other manufacturing companies like Gestamp Tallent, 3M, and Husqvarna. The economy is a mix of manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade, and public administration, with a significant portion of the workforce employed in the manufacturing sector The town is part of the civil parish of Great Aycliffe, which also includes the historic Aycliffe Village. Newton Aycliffe is known for its abundant green spaces and recreational areas, such as West Park, which features a boating lake and walking paths. The Great Aycliffe Way is a scenic walking and cycling trail that encircles the town. The town has a strong community focus with local media like Aycliffe Today and the Newton News. It's a place that blends its post-war modern design with nearby historical elements, offering a unique character in County Durham.