During the 20th century it expanded its geographical coverage to include developments in Shenley Green, Lightmoor in Telford, Bloomsbury in Nechells and Rowheath.

As the city premises was no longer large enough, the two brothers purchased land in the countryside, 4 miles (6.4 km) out of Birmingham at that time.

[2] The estate today covers 1,000 acres (400 ha), is home to some 23,000 people,[3] and includes an exceptionally wide range of housing provision.

Appleton was succeeded by Barlow's son Ralph, who made the trust his life's work until he retired in 1975.

Bournville's green environment reflects the aim of George Cadbury that one-tenth of the estate should be "laid out and used as parks, recreation grounds and open space".