Comment

Representation ID: 55744

Received: 05/10/2020

Respondent: Brookgate

Agent: Bidwells

Neutral:
Policy 5 sets out how new development will achieve biodiversity net gain and
measurably improve the biodiversity network across the wider area. It states that
development proposals will be required to deliver a minimum of 10% net gain in
biodiversity value and shall follow the mitigation hierarchy.
Where on-site provision is not feasible, greenspace and biodiversity enhancement
will need to be provided in alternative ways and/or accommodated off-site. The
Councils are proposing a sequential approach to mitigating adverse impacts on
biodiversity resources. This is proposed to be achieved on-site in the first instance
and then in areas adjacent to North East Cambridge, such as Milton Country Park
and Chesterton Fen, before considering wider mitigation measures across the city
and further afield.
As referred to under question 7 in respect of Policy 8, the potential locations for offsite
provision are broadly supported but this should not preclude alternative off-site
locations coming forward.
Brookgate broadly support Policy 5. They acknowledge that the existing local policy
framework supports the 10% biodiversity net gain requirement even though the
legislative framework is not yet in place. The proposals for the next phases at
Cambridge North will be able to meet or exceed this target and follow the mitigation
hierarchy. Furthermore, green corridors will be designed into the Site to contribute
to the creation of a coherent on-site and off-site, high quality ecological network,
particularly along the rail corridor N/S axis. The existing vegetation along the
guided busway, the northern boundary of the Site and the narrow corridor along the
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railway fencing are the key features that the Cambridge North proposals will work
with.
On-site mitigation should however be reflective of the baseline ecological
conditions. For example, at Cambridge North where the railway sidings context has
created habitat that is unusual within the AAP area, mitigating for open mosaic
habitat (OMH) is required and this necessitates mainly brown roof planting mixed
with a small proportion of green roof.
Brookgate acknowledge the sequential approach to mitigation set out in Policy 5,
with off-site measures to form part of the mitigation strategy and the aspiration to
agree improvement projects with the Councils which could include enhancements
to Milton Country Park and/or Chesterton Fen. Given the habitats present within the
Cambridge North Site, full on-site mitigation is not practicable. However, it is
expected that the AAP developments as a whole may require the identification of
other additional/alternative sites both within the wider local area, and then other
sites elsewhere within Greater Cambridge.
Brookgate recognise the importance of improving the natural environment and
Land at Cambridge North has the potential to provide areas of high quality public
realm which recognises the very different character and functionality of public open
space around a major transport interchange and its hinterland.
The proposed residential and commercial quarters at Land at Cambridge North can
deliver a successful urban scheme where, despite public open space being limited
in terms of quantum can still deliver spaces of high quality, providing green spaces
to relax and socialise. Indeed, small intimate spaces often create the most
successful urban experiences. New areas of green infrastructure also provide
opportunities to mitigate against climate change, through creating resilient new
habitats. Strategic off-site opportunities also offer the opportunity to significantly
increase biodiversity other than providing site specific biodiversity improvements.