As set out in the NPPF, the supply of large numbers of new homes can often be best achieved through planning for large scale development, provided that this development is supported by the necessary infrastructure. In order to ensure there is a genuine switch from car use towards sustainable modes of transport, new development must be supported by convenient, regular and affordable public transport, as well as safe and accessible pedestrian / cycle links.

Marshall supports the principles of sustainable transport and the aims of this policy which “seek to deliver sustainable and inclusive communities by minimising the need to travel and reducing travel distances, whilst ensuring there is effective and sufficient sustainable transport mode choice and improved connectivity for everyone of any ability. It will require development to be located and designed to reduce the need to travel, particularly by car, and promote sustainable travel appropriate to its location.” (Page 304, ‘First Proposals’ consultation document)

By locating growth in the most sustainable locations, that are well-connected to transport links and a short distance from key services and facilities, this delivers the tools to start generating a modal shift towards the use of sustainable travel methods. Marshall recognises this and have been developing a transport strategy, in collaboration with the County Council, GCP and Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority, that supports the level of growth that Cambridge East is allocated for within the ‘First Proposals’ document, but that also considers and explores what could be achieved if the scale of the opportunity at Cambridge East is maximised. The Site represents a significant opportunity to integrate and provide cross-city connectivity with the wider Greater Cambridge transport network and thus can interact with the city as a whole.

The transport evidence base documents are clear that Cambridge East is one of the best performing locations in transport terms. The site reduces the need to travel by car and generally contributes less to congestion in the peak periods than sites in other broad locations. Cambridge East would also achieve low mode shares of car use even without mitigation, linked to the proximity of the site to the city and the ability to access jobs and services on the site itself and nearby via non-car modes. This helps to establish good sustainable transport characteristics for the site. The use of active modes and public transport combined at Cambridge East can be a fundamental component of the transport strategy. The level of Park & Ride trips modelled indicates there may be scope to refine the assessment of the Cambridge Eastern Access scheme to achieve a higher proportion of trips from the site that use direct Public Transport services rather than drive to a Park & Ride site.

Cambridge East is a catalyst for growth that can unlock the sustainable movement strategy for east Cambridge and contribute significantly towards a holistic solution for the city as a whole. It is only through intelligent growth, rather than a restricted approach to development, which can change the unsatisfactory status quo and bring transformational change in line with the Local Plan objectives.