Update: Growth sites planning appeal dismissed by Secretary of State
On Friday 26 February 2010, the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government dismissed the appeals relating to the planning applications for Clay Farm and Glebe Farm on Cambridge’s southern fringe. Cambridge City Council’s planning policies requiring 40% affordable housing have been upheld. This decision sets an important precedent not just for the growth of Cambridge, but across the country. For more details, click here.
Official government targets expect Cambridge to grow by at least 19,000 new homes (that is, an increase of more than 40%) compared to housing numbers in 2001. Whether those targets run to 2021 or 2031 (as the City Council advocates), this presents major opportunities and challenges for Cambridge. Sustainable growth is needed to meet high local demand for housing and to help the local economy continue to prosper.
The City Council’s vision for the growth of Cambridge is based on high quality design, sustainability (and sustainable transport), affordable housing, thriving communities and green open spaces across the city. By investing a great deal of energy and commitment in the sustainable growth of Cambridge and drawing on specialist knowledge and expertise, we are aiming for excellence in the planned new neighbourhoods.
When the Accordia development on Brooklands Avenue, Cambridge won the prestigious RIBA Stirling Prize in 2008, the judges cited it as proof that “a committed local authority can have a very positive influence on the design.”
Here is a quick overview of our approach. You can find out more by following the links to the left.
Why Cambridge needs to grow
The city needs to meet high demand for housing and help the strong local economy to prosper. Current official government targets expect Cambridge to have at least 19,000 new homes by 2021 (compared to 2001).
Where growth will happen
Most of the new homes to be built in Cambridge will form part of major developments on the city's southern, north west and eastern fringes. The area around Cambridge station will be regenerated, featuring an improved public transport interchange (bus and rail links).
What we want to achieve through growth
The City Council is committed to leading the growth of Cambridge to achieve attractive, sustainable new neighbourhoods (including affordable housing) close to a good range of facilities and supported by transport networks so that people can opt not to use the car. Our approach also emphasises the importance of: high quality design; thriving communities; good access to jobs and services; and open spaces, conservation and biodiversity, so that everyone can benefit from the growth of Cambridge.
How we are leading the growth of Cambridge
We are: developing policies, plans and strategies; involving and consulting residents; anticipating Cambridge's changing needs; seeking and securing the necessary resources; and working with partners (including Cambridgeshire Horizons and other local authorities) to take a joined-up approach.
How the growth of Cambridge is taking shape
Of the 19,000 new homes in Cambridge expected by 2021, around 4,080 had been built between 2001 and April 2009. Good progress is being made on important preparations for further development. The economic downturn means that the construction of some developments may be delayed and take longer than planned, though house-building is likely to go ahead on other sites. Housing completions are expected to pick up again in a few years' time.
Useful links and background documents
If you want to know more about the growth of Cambridge, you can find links to key documents that inform our approach to growth (such as the Local Plan, Sustainable Community Strategy and Cambridgeshire Quality Charter for Growth) and the websites of partner organisations (including Cambridgeshire Horizons).
We would welcome your comments - contact us at growth@cambridge.gov.uk
