Tributes paid to Poundbury master planner Leon Krier

Leon Krier, who was tasked with turning the Prince's plans for Poundbury into reality, passed away from colorectal cancer aged 79 in Spain.

Paying tribute, Zoe Bell, chair of the Community Association of Poundbury, said on behalf of the association: “I'm very sad to learn of the passing of Leon Krier, whose visionary approach to architecture shaped our thriving, connected community.

“His belief that architecture should serve people and foster belonging is evident in every corner of Poundbury. Thanks to his principles of walkability, mixed-use spaces, and human-scale design, Poundbury has become a place where people truly enjoy living. His legacy will continue to inspire communities for generations."

Prince Charles and architect Leon Krier tour the Poundbury development with government officials in 1996. (Image: Jim Tamplin) A spokesperson for landowners, the Duchy of Cornwall, said: ""The Duchy of Cornwall were very sad to hear of the passing of architect and urban planner Leon Krier.

"Leon was instrumental in creating a visionary urban masterplan for the Duchy of Cornwall’s Poundbury project, working closely over thirty years with HM King Charles III during his tenure as the Duke of Cornwall.

"Leon’s creativity and dedication was fundamental in establishing Poundbury as a thriving urban destination and home to a vibrant community. He last visited Poundbury with HM The King in June 2023."

The Luxembourgish architect and urban planner was born in 1946 and was an advocate and leading figure of New Classical architecture and New Urbanism. His ideas were published in his book, the Architecture of Community which followed 20 years of practising and teaching at the Architectural Association and Royal College of Art.

In his years as heir apparent, the then-Prince Charles, the Royal lover of architecture had a dream of a model village blending a mixture of traditional building styles on 400 acres of Duchy land. Mr Krier was appointed as the master planner. 

Prince Charles and architect Leon Krier tour the Poundbury development with government officials in 1996. (Image: NQ) Mr Krier said the scheme was working out as he envisaged in 1988 upon a visit to the area and interview with the Echo in 2006. He said then that Poundbury was “not a routine project.” He said: “It looks traditional, but traditional architecture is extremely difficult."

The architecture at Poundbury is unashamedly traditional, using a variety of Dorset materials such as stone, slate and render. The architecture drew on the rich heritage of the county, splitting the extension of Dorchester into four quarters- all with their own unique charm from Brownsword Hall in Pummery Squre, to Queen Mother Square and Crown Square.

Leon Krier in Poundbury (Image: NQ) Still uncomplete but with the final touches to be finished off next year, the eventual community of Poundbury will be built up to approximately 5,800 people and remain his lasting legacy to the world.

As well as his links to Poundbury, he was masterplan for Paseo Cayalá, an extension of four new urban quarters for Guatamala City.