Our client supports broad principles which underpin the stated ‘vision’ and ‘aims’ of the GCLP. Indeed, reducing climate change and minimising carbon emissions are key considerations for the planning system and the wider world. Notwithstanding this in principle support, there is still a need for the GCLP to strike a sustainable balance between focussing on reducing climate change and safeguarding the vitality and vibrancy of existing sustainable villages in South Cambridgeshire.

The ‘vision’ and ‘aims’ of the GCLP are silent on supporting the long-term vitality and vibrancy of rural communities; of which there are many in South Cambridgeshire. The GCLP should encourage proportionate housing growth supported by investment in local infrastructure at established rural sustainable settlements. The ability to strike a balance through the GCLP is entirely possible and appropriate given that a number of established sustainable settlements are served by high quality existing infrastructure which reduces reliance on the private car (bus services, railway stations, Guided Busway and Park & Ride facilities) and could benefit from investment in new sustainable transport infrastructure such as East West Rail and proposals falling out of the Oxford-Cambridge Arc.

The ‘vision’ and ‘aims’ should be amended to make reference to the GCLP “Supporting rural communities to ensure that they thrive, and existing key services are safeguarded by encouraging sustainable and proportionate growth in hand with further investment with community infrastructure”.