Nestled in the picturesque South Gloucestershire countryside, Coalpit Heath has been dubbed one of the oldest villages in England.

Census data showed the village boasts one of England’s oldest populations and residents find themselves at odds over the prospect of welcoming younger generations into their tranquil haven.

While some argue the village thrives in its current state, others yearn for the energy and vibrancy new faces could bring.

For Christine Helliker, a long-term resident and full-time carer, the absence of new housing developments is crucial to preserving the village’s charm.

She fondly recalls how Coalpit Heath first captured her heart because it was a true village, untouched by sprawling estates and modern constructions.

She said: “There were no estates or new houses – the reason we first came here is because it was a village. [Building houses] has to be done, but I don’t like the green fields going.

“I think it’s lovely that it’s the third oldest village – I’d like it to stay like that. I think there’s a good mixture [of older and younger people] here, I don’t think we need younger people, there’s enough.”

Primary school teacher Aliesha Ward, 24, acknowledges that while Coalpit Heath offers a quiet and comfortable living environment, it may not be the ideal place for young people to settle permanently.

She said: “It’s alright [here]. I live with my mum as it’s too expensive to move out at the moment. It’s fine, and it’s a quiet town. I don’t mind living here. You have to get taxis and things as the buses into Bristol are really bad.”

She said it’s a “quiet place to live” and that “it’s either kids or old people” in the village.

But the prospect of adding more houses does not appeal as Aliesha “wouldn’t want the fields to be built on”.

One aspect that both sides agree on is the village’s proximity to nature. Coalpit Heath’s residents take great pride in their access to picturesque walks and the friendly atmosphere that permeates the area.

Tina Thomson, a local resident, cherishes the village’s amenities and natural beauty. Her son recently purchased a property in Coalpit Heath, and her daughter intends to follow suit, preferring to stay close to the village she knows and loves.

Coalpit Heath’s neighbouring village, Frampton Cotterell, stands in stark contrast with its significantly younger population.

Jon Trollope, 34, who works in consumer research, said: “I live in Frampton, but I play cricket in Coalpit Heath so I’m here at least once a week. We’ve got quite a mixed group of cricketers – some are younger than me, some my age and older as well.

“It’s a nice place to live, everyone’s friendly, I’ve lived here my whole life and I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. There’s a lot more younger families here over the last few years.

“Everyone is really friendly and the neighbours near me are nice people, everyone just looks out for each other.”

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