Local History Society publishes new book on East Leake’s Rushcliffe Estate
Last updated: 17/3/2026
The East Leake and District Local History Society has released a new publication, The History and Development of the Rushcliffe Estate, East Leake, offering the first comprehensive study of one of the village’s most distinctive post‑war neighbourhoods.
The book explores the origins and evolution of the estate on Gotham Road, built shortly after the Second World War and comprising nearly 300 prefabricated semi‑detached homes.
Originally a council estate, the character of the area shifted following the introduction of Right to Buy in the late 1970s. Today, ownership is mixed with some owner occupiers, some renting from private landlords and some renting from a corporate landlord.
Illustrated with archive photographs and recent images, the book documents changes in roofing, cladding, windows and doors, capturing both original features and subsequent modernisations.
The book features oral histories from past and present residents, helping to bring the estate’s social story to life.
The book is available now for £10 from:
- East Leake Library, Gotham Road LE12 6JG
- Something Special, Gotham Road LE12 6JG
- East Leake Parish Council, 45 Main Street LE12 6PF
Funding to support printing was provided through Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Community Support Scheme, allocated by Ward Member Cllr Carys Thomas.
Cllr Thomas said: “Rushcliffe's Community Support Scheme allows local councillors to assign up to £1000 each year in grants towards small projects in our area.
“It's always a delight to be able to help local groups, in this case the East Leake and District Local History Society who keep our past alive with their research, publications and monthly meetings.
“The book is a celebration of the Rushcliffe Estate, recording both the architecture and the social history of this cohesive and enduring community. Highly recommended and a huge credit to the authors and contributors.”
Co-author Brenda Lewis added: “Four members of the Society, Jacki Allan, Alan Hall, Louise Lee and me, encouraged by Cllr Carys Thomas, first met in February 2025 to begin work on the project, which we completed by October.
“Originally the aim of the group’s research was to give a synopsis of the building and development of the estate, but it quickly developed into a more comprehensive project.
“We focused on how and why the estate came about from the early 1950s to the present day and subsequent changes over the decades.
“We are delighted with the finished book and hope readers enjoy discovering the estate’s unique history.”
To find out more, visit the East Leake and District Local History Society website.