Cambridge developments take step forward as objections lifted
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has welcomed the Environment Agency lifting its objections to housing and science developments in and around Cambridge. The Environment Agency has withdrawn its objections to plans to build 4,500 new homes in Waterbeach. It has also withdrawn opposition to the Beehive Centre redevelopment.
The Chancellor said this was possible following the government working closely with councils and regulators to “find creative solutions to unlock growth and address environmental pressures”. New housing and laboratory developments were highlighted as the Chancellor announced plans for an ‘Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor’.
Ms Reeves said the lack of affordable housing and transport infrastructure between the two cities was holding back economic growth. She said the ‘growth corridor’ could add up to £78billion to the UK economy by 2035 and that the Oxford to Cambridge area has the “potential to be Europe’s Silicon Valley”.
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The government has said new homes and infrastructure are needed in the Cambridge area to “deliver sustainable growth”. The Environment Agency had objected to plans for 4,500 homes in Waterbeach New Town after it raised concerns about water supply to the new homes.
The organisation also objected to proposed Beehive Centre redevelopment due to water scarcity concerns. Proposals to redevelop the shopping park include new offices and laboratory space, alongside shops, leisure and community space. The Environment Agency said joint work to address water scarcity in the region meant it would remove its holding objection.
However, the organisation said it will continue to monitor the delivery of Cambridge Water’s water resource management plan, to “ensure that development is sustainable and there is enough water for people and the environment".
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