Berkeley is a historic market town dating back to the 11th century. By far the town's most notable landmark is Berkeley Castle, a medieval fortress that has been continuously inhabited for over 900 years. The town was also the birthplace of Edward Jenner, famous physician and scientist, who developed the smallpox vaccine. The development site is situated on the western fringes of the town, surrounded by rolling countryside. The site was once a historic orchard, but the fruit bearing trees gradually died out and it has more recently been used for grazing sheep. It now provides an opportunity to deliver new family housing for the town and local community, in line with the aspirations of the Council who have allocated the land for housing development.