Time Capsule: A message to the future
In February 2026, One Horton Heath marked a meaningful moment in the life of the new community with the creation of a time capsule – a One Horton Heath social value activity designed to capture everyday life today and preserve it for the residents of tomorrow.
A community effort
The project brought together One Horton Heath and contracted builders of The Lower Acre phase, Wates Residential, alongside local partners and Fair Oak and Horton Heath Parish Council and the Deputy Mayor. A special contribution came from children at Fair Oak Infant School, who were invited to choose items that matter to them now and that reflect life as they know it today.
Ahead of the burial, members of the project team visited the school to run a classroom session with pupils. During the visit, children were encouraged to think about the future and discuss what they would like people to know about life today before selecting items for the capsule.
For the children involved, the time capsule was a chance to think about what makes their world special. From the toys they play with, to the stories they read, and the things they hope will still exist when the capsule is reopened.
Deputy Mayor, Councillor Gomer said:
“This was a really special moment for everyone involved. The time capsule captures not just where One Horton Heath is today, but the people and everyday moments that are helping to shape the community from the very beginning.”
What is a time capsule?
Time capsules have been used for centuries as a way of communicating with the future. They are collections of objects and messages that capture a snapshot of everyday life at a specific moment in time. When rediscovered years or even decades later, they offer a unique insight into how people lived, what they valued, and what mattered to them.
Modern time capsules often include a mix of personal items, written messages, and records of current events, helping future generations understand not just major historical moments, but ordinary life too.
Items included in the capsule
The One Horton Heath time capsule includes a carefully chosen selection of items, such as:
- Small toys chosen by local children
- Drawings and handwritten notes from pupils at Fair Oak Infant School
- A local newspaper capturing current headlines
- Predictions for the future
- A map of the local area
- Items that reflect everyday life in the community today, including a current board game
Together, these objects form a snapshot of life in the early days of the One Horton Heath community.
Operations Director, Barry Williams from Wates Residential, said:
“It was fantastic to see local children so closely involved. Their ideas have helped bring the time capsule to life. Projects like this help create a real sense of connection between new developments and the communities around them so these places can thrive. We are proud to have played a part.”
A message to the future
The capsule has been buried at the One Horton Heath development, with plans for it to be uncovered in around 20 years’ time. When it is reopened, future residents will be able to look back and see how the community began.
Questions for the future might include:
- What does One Horton Heath look like now?
- Are the children who contributed to the capsule still living nearby?
- What has changed, and what has stayed the same?
- How has the community grown since these early days?
Looking ahead
As the One Horton Heath development continues to grow and welcome new residents, OHH remains committed to working closely with the local community. Projects like the time capsule reflect a long-term approach. One that values connection, history, and the people who help shape the place from the very beginning.
If you are considering making One Horton Heath your home, visit the eastbrooke homes website to find out more about available properties.
Pictured: Children and staff from Fair Oak Infant School, representatives from One Horton Heath and Wates Residential, KBL, Fair Oak Horton Heath Parish Council and Deputy Mayor Cllr Gomer.