Comment
Greater Cambridge Local Plan Preferred Options
Representation ID: 57479
Received: 10/12/2021
Respondent: ESFA (Department for Education)
The department notes that existing opportunity areas are being carried forward from the existing local plans and two new ones are being created at Newmarket Retail Park and the Beehive Centre. We welcome the recognition that the urban retail landscape is changing and these sites present an opportunity to reimagine these places close to the heart of Cambridge. Please consider education among the potential suitable uses within these areas, subject to other criteria such as active and sustainable travel. Education development can be a complementary use which increases footfall in retail areas that may be struggling to remain viable.
The department notes that existing opportunity areas are being carried forward from the existing local plans and two new ones are being created at Newmarket Retail Park and the Beehive Centre. We welcome the recognition that the urban retail landscape is changing and these sites present an opportunity to reimagine these places close to the heart of Cambridge. Please consider education among the potential suitable uses within these areas, subject to other criteria such as active and sustainable travel. Education development can be a complementary use which increases footfall in retail areas that may be struggling to remain viable.