Duke of Cambridge to visit Milton Keynes for 50th anniversary celebrations

The Duke of Cambridge will visit Milton Keynes to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the famous new town.

Residents of the Buckinghamshire settlement - known for its concrete cows and roundabouts - have been marking the Act of Parliament which 50 years ago paved the way for Milton Keynes' creation.

On January 23 1967, then housing minister Anthony Greenwood granted permission to transform 8,850 hectares of farmland and undeveloped villages into a town of 250,000 people - part of the third and final phase of the government's plans to relocate populations following the Second World War.

Five decades later, MK - as it is known to locals - has become home to more than 10,000 businesses and is used as a model for cities around the world.

William will attend a festival demonstrating the themes of the year-long celebration - MK50 - from business and innovation to community, culture, history and the environment.

The Duke will meet Milton Keynes' founders, community leaders, faith groups and representatives from the public sector.

Afterwards, he will view the Milton Keynes Rose - a public installation and focal point for the community - featuring pillars celebrating groups and events important to the residents of Milton Keynes.

During a ceremony commemorating the town's 50th Anniversary, William will make a short speech before unveiling a new pillar celebrating Milton Keynes' founders.

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