Consultations launched on new development guidance documents

Residents of Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire can now influence the quality of future developments by having their say on three new and important planning documents.

Greater Cambridge Shared Planning (GCSP), a partnership between Cambridge City and South Cambridgeshire District councils, is consulting on three Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs) from 28 November 2024 to 24 January 2025.

The SPDs will provide further information and detailed guidance on policies in the councils’ current adopted Local Plans.

The guidance will provide developers and infrastructure providers with clearer expectations for their new schemes. They aim to streamline the planning process and ultimately lead to higher quality developments across Greater Cambridge.

The three draft documents that Greater Cambridge Shared Planning is consulting on are:

Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Document 

This SPD focuses on planning obligations, also known as section 106 contributions. These financial contributions from developers mitigate the impact of new development for homes or businesses. Examples include new schools and roads, upgrading playgrounds, or providing additional waste collection vehicles. The draft SPD sets out our proposed approach and clarifies this process for both developers and residents, ultimately aiming to reduce delays in securing necessary infrastructure. 

Health Impact Assessment Supplementary Planning Document 

This SPD addresses the impact of development on health and wellbeing. It outlines how developers should promote healthy and sustainable living environments and consider factors like safety, access to green spaces, and climate change when designing projects.

Cambridge Biomedical Campus Supplementary Planning Document

This SPD sets development principles to enhance integration and quality on the Biomedical Campus, supporting patient care, research and community benefit across its facilities. Development should be joined up across the campus, so this SPD outlines the councils’ ambitions for the area. It aims to create a well-integrated campus that benefits those working and receiving care there, and surrounding communities. 

The consultation on the draft Supplementary Planning Documents is an opportunity for the councils to consider the views of local communities and the feedback gathered during the consultation will play a crucial role in shaping the final documents, which are set to be completed in Spring 2025.

Cllr Katie Thornburrow, Executive Councillor for Planning, Building Control and Infrastructure at Cambridge City Council, said

“We want everyone to be able to play an active role in shaping the future of Greater Cambridge. It is crucial that everyone has the chance to shape the developments that will affect their daily lives. These consultations are an important opportunity to ensure that the voices of residents, businesses and local organisations are heard, and that their priorities are reflected in the final plans.

“These Supplementary Planning Documents will help guide future projects in a way that supports health, infrastructure and growth, while protecting what makes Greater Cambridge such a unique and special place to live and work.”

Cllr Dr. Tumi Hawkins, Lead Cabinet Member for Planning for South Cambridgeshire District Council, said:

“These are three important elements of the local planning process, so do have your say on them all through our online or in-person consultation events. By taking part, you are helping shape the future of Greater Cambridge and ensuring new developments contribute to thriving and healthy communities.

“Hearing from the people who live and work in our area is essential. Your feedback will help us guide developers to deliver high-quality projects that truly reflect the needs and aspirations of our communities.”

To find out more information and comment on the draft SPDs, visit: www.greatercambridgeplanning.org/spd

Anyone who would prefer to receive printed literature to help them have their say should email localplan@greatercambridgeplanning.org or call 01223 457000 or 01954 713000

Besides inviting online comments, GCSP is also holding in-person and online consultation events where members of the public are welcome to connect with Planning Officers, find out more and give their views about the SPDs. All events are listed on the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning website: www.greatercambridgeplanning.org.spd