Object

Representation ID: 56540

Received: 19/11/2021

Respondent: Cambridgeshire County Council

Agent: Carter Jonas

PARAGRAPH 4.60

Paragraph 4.60 advises that there is a shortfall of places for care of children during their early years in Gamlingay. It goes on to state that the existing former First School buildings would provide an ideal location for pre-school care. Policy GAM8 is proposing the reuse of the buildings on the former First School site for educational and community purposes where a need (e.g. for pre-school provision, a new doctors’ surgery or relocation of the Coop) can be met. Cambridgeshire County Council objects to Paragraph 4.60 under basic conditions A, D and E (see representations submitted in respect of Policy GAM8). Cambridgeshire County Council acknowledges its duty to provide pre-school places. However, while a detailed feasibility study of the site has not yet been carried out, based on experience in the area it is considered likely that a sole pre-school use would not be viable. Also, due to the size of the buildings multiple site occupants would be required. To produce an effective whole site solution, it is highly likely that a mixed use scheme will be required to support such facilities, however, this should not be restricted to education and community uses. Rather, greater flexibility should be provided to ensure a suitable viable scheme can be developed. This view was expressed by Cambridgeshire County Council as part of the Regulation 14 Consultation.