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 - since 1907-1930 part of Bentley Park, preserves the exterior boundaries of a historic plot shown on the 1850s mapping. Partial legibility of the earlier plot boundaries within which these early twentieth century buildings were developed. Also some early twentieth century large semi detached buildings along Cooke Street.