Before the rapid expansion of Bentley in the early twentieth century, historic maps show a probable large medieval village or small town. Plan elements which are likely to have a medieval date include Cooke Street; Jossey Lane; Mill Gate / Chapel Street; and Finkle Street. The triangular site of the 'Don Valley Institute of Higher Education' building between Cooke Street and Chapel Street may be the last vestige of a village green or market place. Boundaries probably relating to historic 'burgage type plots' survive to the north west of Cooke Street. This polygon, now consisting mostly of early 20th century terraces, shows the area of High Street to the south of its junction with Mill Gate. Analysis of the plan form of Bentley as shown in 1851 suggests that this area of High Street is earlier than the section to the north (where it crosses Mill Dyke at 'New Stone Bridge'). The plots shown on this southern section at this date were less regular and more developed (to the north High Street cuts across seemingly older plots with buildings arranged in relation to Cooke Street). In addition in 1851 this section was of highly irregular and variable width, whilst to the north the roadway was of regular dimensions. This layout would conform to the plan outline of the village on Jefferys map (1775), which does not seem to show the northern end of High Street. No legibility of medieval street component due to early 20th century road widening and straightening operations.