Draft Greater Cambridge Local Plan for consultation

Housing Allocations should be made at the Endurance Estates' sites at Land off Elbourn Way, Bassingbourn (Site ID 116006, HELAA ID 40227). This site can contribute towards local housing needs to ensure the vitality of the existing services within the villages, and the viability of ongoing provision.

3.1.1 Endurance Estates consider that the housing allocations across the rural area are insufficient to meet local housing needs in the villages of the District and reflect wider concerns set out in our response to the wider Policies that confirm the Plan is not providing for sufficient number of new homes.

3.1.2 In particular, Endurance Estates strongly objects to Draft Policy S/RRA on the basis that it omits the following proposed site allocations:

• Land South of Horseheath Road, Linton (Site ID 115248, HELAA ID 40554)
• Land to the rear of Old House Road, Balsham (Site ID 115953, HELAA ID 40438)
• Land off the Causeway, Bassingbourn (Site ID 116001, HELAA ID 40228)
• Land off Elbourn Way, Bassingbourn (Site ID 116006, HELAA ID 40227)
• Land at Hillside, Orwell (Site ID 115802, HELAA ID 40496)

Linton (Site ID 115248, HELAA ID 40554)

3.1.3 Endurance Estates have consistently promoted Land South of Horseheath Road, and sought to provide updated technical information at every given opportunity. The 2025 HELAA relating to the landscape impact states that the “Site is highly sensitive in landscape terms and development in this location would be highly visible, creating adverse impacts on landscape character and local views. These impacts are significant when considered cumulatively alongside other development on adjacent land”. It is not clear on what basis this conclusion was reached, as detailed Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments have concluded that development of the site can be sufficiently mitigated through a considerate, landscape-led design and planting scheme.

3.1.4 As a Minor Rural Centre, Linton is demonstrably a sustainable settlement. Linton benefits from a Infant, Junior and Secondary Schools, a Library, several shops and cafes, public houses, a GP Surgery, dental practice, and an excellent range of sports and recreation facilities, including a skate park, swimming pool and sports pavilion. It is therefore considered that the site, and by extension the village of Linton, benefits from sufficient accessibility to essential shops and services, alongside the ability to travel sustainably further afield for a full array of services in both the surrounding villages and Cambridge.

3.1.5 Linton also now benefits from two committed schemes which are coming forward over the next few years and which remained subject to uncertainty at the Local Plan First Proposals stage. These significant transport infrastructure investments being brought forward by the GCP and include the Linton Greenway and CSET Busway. Both schemes will materially improve the sustainability of the settlement in a way which we consider has not been reflected in the assessment of the village’s potential to accommodate growth sustainably. The Linton Greenway is understood to be approaching completion, with the majority of the route between Linton and the Abingtons now in use. Linton therefore benefits from a high-quality, direct, safe and segregated pedestrian and cycle route to both Granta Park and the Babraham Research Campus - two of the largest employment sites in the District.

3.1.6 In addition, the proposed CSET scheme, which will reach examination in 2026, will provide fast and direct public transport connections into Cambridge and the Biomedical Campus from a new Travel Hub on the A11 Junction at Fourwentways. The CSET busway and Travel Hub are both easily accessible via the Greenway from Linton. It is expected that the CSET scheme will come forward as envisaged prior to or in a similar timeframe to the development of the site.

3.1.7 The supporting text to Policy S/DS: Development Strategy outlines that “We [Greater Cambridge] also have evidence that locating homes close to existing and proposed jobs at the cluster of research parks to the south of Cambridge would help reduce commuting and associated carbon emissions and congestion”. This acknowledgement is endorsed by Endurance Estates as recognition of the sustainability of villages in the Southern Cluster, which includes Linton. Despite this sensible admission, it makes the lack of any residential allocations within Linton difficult to understand, particularly with the transport enhancement schemes being brought forward by GCP with the express purpose of improving the accessibility of the Village to employment sites.

3.1.8 Please refer to Endurance Estates' full representations for an extract from the 2025 HELAA site assessments, alongside comments from the promotion team.

3.1.9 Endurance Estates contend that the omission of Land South of Horseheath Road fails to recognise Linton’s accessible location and the likelihood that this will shortly be enhanced through planned public transport improvements, along with the good level of existing service provision. The site and village as a whole is outside of the Green Belt and the identified landscape constraints are capable of being overcome through a landscape-led design approach.

3.1.10 Linton is therefore demonstrably a sustainable location capable for accommodating further housing growth to meet the identified local need and its allocation would be consistent with the strategy of focussing growth in the Rural Southern Cluster, close to existing employment sites. In this regard, Greater Cambridge should allocate Land South of Horseheath Road for a sustainable development of approximately 100 market and affordable homes within the village.

3.1.11 The Site remains Available, Achievable and Suitable for residential development.

Balsham (Site ID 115953, HELAA ID 40438)

3.1.12 Endurance Estates objects strongly to the proposed Inset Map for Balsham on the grounds that it does not propose allocation of Land at Old House Road for residential development. The Policies Map proposes no residential allocations within the village, Endurance Estates are promoting Land to the Rear of Old House Road, Balsham which is considered capable of accommodating a scheme of approximately 25 new dwellings.

3.1.13 Crucially, draft Policy S/SH states that “limited development will help maintain remaining services and facilities and provide for affordable housing to meet local needs”. This acknowledgement is strongly supported by Endurance Estates, however the lack of any allocated development to ensure the long-term vitality of the village’s facilities is disappointing.

3.1.14 Balsham had a population of 1,623 as of the 2021 Census, which represents an approximate 1% decrease on the 1,641 residents recorded at the 2001 Census. This contrasts starkly with the wider South Cambridgeshire district, which grew by just under 25% in the same time period. This stagnation places the village’s existing services at risk of further decline. As correctly identified by the supporting text to Policy S/SH, additional growth in villages such as Balsham is key to maintaining their vitality. Simply, without growth, the range of shops and essential services is likely to continue to deteriorate.

3.1.15 Please refer to Endurance Estates' full representations for an extract from the 2025 HELAA site assessments, alongside comments from the promotion team.

3.1.16 In terms Land to the Rear of Old House Road, there were no significant issues which cannot be mitigated through the scheme design which were raised in the 2021, 2023 or 2025 HELAA documents.
3.1.17 Endurance Estates contend that the Inset Map for Balsham should be urgently updated to ensure that controlled growth can come forward, in support of essential services through the allocation of sites such as Land to the Rear of Old House Road.

3.1.18 The Site remains Available, Achievable and Suitable for residential development.

Land off the Causeway, Bassingbourn (Site ID 116001, HELAA ID 40228) and,
Land off Elbourn Way, Bassingbourn (Site ID 116006, HELAA ID 40227).

3.1.19 Endurance Estates objects strongly to the proposed Inset Map for Bassingbourn on the grounds that it does not propose allocation of either Land off the Causeway, or Land off Elbourn Way for residential development. The Policies Map proposes no residential allocations within the village, despite it being a sustainable Minor Rural Centre. Greater Cambridge recognises that the village plays a role in providing services and facilities for a rural hinterland; however, the lack of allocations to secure controlled growth moving forward puts existing services at risk of decline.

3.1.20 Bassingbourn had a population of 2,351 at the 2021 Census which represents a marked decrease on the 3,090 residents that lived in the village at the time of the 2001 Census. This decline is in stark contrast with South Cambridgeshire, which grew by just under 25% in the same time period. There is therefore an urgent need to protect the vitality of the village to secure the ongoing provision of shops, services and community facilities. The Village currently hosts a good range of shops and services including a Spar Convenience Store, Public Houses and a community centre. The Village also benefits from Bassingbourn Primary and Bassingbourn Village College. Without additional growth in villages such as Bassingbourn, which play key roles in the delivery of shops and services for rural areas of South Cambridgeshire, the breadth and quality of key shops and services is likely to deteriorate, ultimately harming the sustainability of the settlement in the long term.

3.1.21 Please refer to Endurance Estates' full representations for an extract from the 2025 HELAA site assessments, alongside comments from the promotion team.

3.1.22 The Inset Map for Bassingbourn should be updated to reflect the role of the village as a Minor Rural Centre. Proportional and sympathetic extensions to the village, such as those proposed at Land off the Causeway and Land off Elbourn Way, are the best and most effective way to securing the continued viability of essential services and facilities and maintaining the vitality of the village in accordance with paragraph 83 of the NPPF.

3.1.23 The Site remains Available, Achievable and Suitable for residential development.

Land at Hillside, Orwell (Site ID 115802, HELAA ID 40496)

3.1.24 Endurance Estates objects strongly to the proposed Inset Map for Orwell on the basis of the omission of a site specific policy allocating Land at Hillside, Orwell for a residential development.

3.1.25 Orwell is categorised as a Group Village under draft Policy S/SH. The village has experienced moderate growth since the 2001 Census, increasing by approximately 6%. However, this is significantly below the growth rate of South Cambridgeshire, which saw population growth of just under 25% during the same period. As of the 2025 Regulation 18 Consultation, there are no residential allocations proposed within the village.

3.1.26 Orwell benefits from a Primary School, Public House, Post Office, Convenience Store and a Village Hall. The Village also has a good bus connection to Cambridge for a wider range of services.

3.1.27 Land at Hillside, Orwell, is promoted by Endurance Estates for a landscape-led development of approximately 26 dwellings. The 2025 HELAA did not assess the site as it was deemed to “not align with the wider Local Plan Strategy”. Endurance Estates consider that this fails to consider the contribution that the Site could make towards a controlled and proportionate growth of the Village in order to support essential services and facilities to maintain the vitality of the village in accordance with paragraph 85 of the NPPF.

3.1.28 In the absence of a formal assessment in the HELAA, Savills have undertaken a review against the criteria in the 2025 HELAA below. Please refer to Endurance Estates' full representations for this table.

3.1.29 Since the development at Hurdleditch Road was approved in 2016 (S/3190/15/OL), no further major schemes have been approved in the village. Partly as a result of the lack of site allocations there within the Adopted Local Plan.

3.1.30 Department of Education records indicate that the Petersfield C of E Primary School has 134 pupils on roll and a capacity of 210, indicating that the school is currently operating at around 64% capacity. This suggests there is capacity for growth within the village, which would help safeguard existing services for the benefit of current and future residents.

3.1.31 The Inset Map for Orwell should be updated to reflect the capacity of the village for a controlled and proportionate level of growth to support the Village’s services. This should include, as a minimum, Land at Hillside, Orwell for a residential development of circa 26 dwellings.

3.1.32 The Site remains Available, Achievable and Suitable for residential development.

Housing Allocations should be made at the Endurance Estates' sites atLand off the Causeway, Bassingbourn (Site ID 116001, HELAA ID 40228). This site can contribute towards local housing needs to ensure the vitality of the existing services within the villages, and the viability of ongoing provision.

3.1.1 Endurance Estates consider that the housing allocations across the rural area are insufficient to meet local housing needs in the villages of the District and reflect wider concerns set out in our response to the wider Policies that confirm the Plan is not providing for sufficient number of new homes.

3.1.2 In particular, Endurance Estates strongly objects to Draft Policy S/RRA on the basis that it omits the following proposed site allocations:

• Land South of Horseheath Road, Linton (Site ID 115248, HELAA ID 40554)
• Land to the rear of Old House Road, Balsham (Site ID 115953, HELAA ID 40438)
• Land off the Causeway, Bassingbourn (Site ID 116001, HELAA ID 40228)
• Land off Elbourn Way, Bassingbourn (Site ID 116006, HELAA ID 40227)
• Land at Hillside, Orwell (Site ID 115802, HELAA ID 40496)

Linton (Site ID 115248, HELAA ID 40554)

3.1.3 Endurance Estates have consistently promoted Land South of Horseheath Road, and sought to provide updated technical information at every given opportunity. The 2025 HELAA relating to the landscape impact states that the “Site is highly sensitive in landscape terms and development in this location would be highly visible, creating adverse impacts on landscape character and local views. These impacts are significant when considered cumulatively alongside other development on adjacent land”. It is not clear on what basis this conclusion was reached, as detailed Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments have concluded that development of the site can be sufficiently mitigated through a considerate, landscape-led design and planting scheme.

3.1.4 As a Minor Rural Centre, Linton is demonstrably a sustainable settlement. Linton benefits from a Infant, Junior and Secondary Schools, a Library, several shops and cafes, public houses, a GP Surgery, dental practice, and an excellent range of sports and recreation facilities, including a skate park, swimming pool and sports pavilion. It is therefore considered that the site, and by extension the village of Linton, benefits from sufficient accessibility to essential shops and services, alongside the ability to travel sustainably further afield for a full array of services in both the surrounding villages and Cambridge.

3.1.5 Linton also now benefits from two committed schemes which are coming forward over the next few years and which remained subject to uncertainty at the Local Plan First Proposals stage. These significant transport infrastructure investments being brought forward by the GCP and include the Linton Greenway and CSET Busway. Both schemes will materially improve the sustainability of the settlement in a way which we consider has not been reflected in the assessment of the village’s potential to accommodate growth sustainably. The Linton Greenway is understood to be approaching completion, with the majority of the route between Linton and the Abingtons now in use. Linton therefore benefits from a high-quality, direct, safe and segregated pedestrian and cycle route to both Granta Park and the Babraham Research Campus - two of the largest employment sites in the District.

3.1.6 In addition, the proposed CSET scheme, which will reach examination in 2026, will provide fast and direct public transport connections into Cambridge and the Biomedical Campus from a new Travel Hub on the A11 Junction at Fourwentways. The CSET busway and Travel Hub are both easily accessible via the Greenway from Linton. It is expected that the CSET scheme will come forward as envisaged prior to or in a similar timeframe to the development of the site.

3.1.7 The supporting text to Policy S/DS: Development Strategy outlines that “We [Greater Cambridge] also have evidence that locating homes close to existing and proposed jobs at the cluster of research parks to the south of Cambridge would help reduce commuting and associated carbon emissions and congestion”. This acknowledgement is endorsed by Endurance Estates as recognition of the sustainability of villages in the Southern Cluster, which includes Linton. Despite this sensible admission, it makes the lack of any residential allocations within Linton difficult to understand, particularly with the transport enhancement schemes being brought forward by GCP with the express purpose of improving the accessibility of the Village to employment sites.

3.1.8 Please refer to Endurance Estates' full representations for an extract from the 2025 HELAA site assessments, alongside comments from the promotion team.

3.1.9 Endurance Estates contend that the omission of Land South of Horseheath Road fails to recognise Linton’s accessible location and the likelihood that this will shortly be enhanced through planned public transport improvements, along with the good level of existing service provision. The site and village as a whole is outside of the Green Belt and the identified landscape constraints are capable of being overcome through a landscape-led design approach.

3.1.10 Linton is therefore demonstrably a sustainable location capable for accommodating further housing growth to meet the identified local need and its allocation would be consistent with the strategy of focussing growth in the Rural Southern Cluster, close to existing employment sites. In this regard, Greater Cambridge should allocate Land South of Horseheath Road for a sustainable development of approximately 100 market and affordable homes within the village.

3.1.11 The Site remains Available, Achievable and Suitable for residential development.

Balsham (Site ID 115953, HELAA ID 40438)

3.1.12 Endurance Estates objects strongly to the proposed Inset Map for Balsham on the grounds that it does not propose allocation of Land at Old House Road for residential development. The Policies Map proposes no residential allocations within the village, Endurance Estates are promoting Land to the Rear of Old House Road, Balsham which is considered capable of accommodating a scheme of approximately 25 new dwellings.

3.1.13 Crucially, draft Policy S/SH states that “limited development will help maintain remaining services and facilities and provide for affordable housing to meet local needs”. This acknowledgement is strongly supported by Endurance Estates, however the lack of any allocated development to ensure the long-term vitality of the village’s facilities is disappointing.

3.1.14 Balsham had a population of 1,623 as of the 2021 Census, which represents an approximate 1% decrease on the 1,641 residents recorded at the 2001 Census. This contrasts starkly with the wider South Cambridgeshire district, which grew by just under 25% in the same time period. This stagnation places the village’s existing services at risk of further decline. As correctly identified by the supporting text to Policy S/SH, additional growth in villages such as Balsham is key to maintaining their vitality. Simply, without growth, the range of shops and essential services is likely to continue to deteriorate.

3.1.15 Please refer to Endurance Estates' full representations for an extract from the 2025 HELAA site assessments, alongside comments from the promotion team.

3.1.16 In terms Land to the Rear of Old House Road, there were no significant issues which cannot be mitigated through the scheme design which were raised in the 2021, 2023 or 2025 HELAA documents.
3.1.17 Endurance Estates contend that the Inset Map for Balsham should be urgently updated to ensure that controlled growth can come forward, in support of essential services through the allocation of sites such as Land to the Rear of Old House Road.

3.1.18 The Site remains Available, Achievable and Suitable for residential development.

Land off the Causeway, Bassingbourn (Site ID 116001, HELAA ID 40228) and,
Land off Elbourn Way, Bassingbourn (Site ID 116006, HELAA ID 40227).

3.1.19 Endurance Estates objects strongly to the proposed Inset Map for Bassingbourn on the grounds that it does not propose allocation of either Land off the Causeway, or Land off Elbourn Way for residential development. The Policies Map proposes no residential allocations within the village, despite it being a sustainable Minor Rural Centre. Greater Cambridge recognises that the village plays a role in providing services and facilities for a rural hinterland; however, the lack of allocations to secure controlled growth moving forward puts existing services at risk of decline.

3.1.20 Bassingbourn had a population of 2,351 at the 2021 Census which represents a marked decrease on the 3,090 residents that lived in the village at the time of the 2001 Census. This decline is in stark contrast with South Cambridgeshire, which grew by just under 25% in the same time period. There is therefore an urgent need to protect the vitality of the village to secure the ongoing provision of shops, services and community facilities. The Village currently hosts a good range of shops and services including a Spar Convenience Store, Public Houses and a community centre. The Village also benefits from Bassingbourn Primary and Bassingbourn Village College. Without additional growth in villages such as Bassingbourn, which play key roles in the delivery of shops and services for rural areas of South Cambridgeshire, the breadth and quality of key shops and services is likely to deteriorate, ultimately harming the sustainability of the settlement in the long term.

3.1.21 Please refer to Endurance Estates' full representations for an extract from the 2025 HELAA site assessments, alongside comments from the promotion team.

3.1.22 The Inset Map for Bassingbourn should be updated to reflect the role of the village as a Minor Rural Centre. Proportional and sympathetic extensions to the village, such as those proposed at Land off the Causeway and Land off Elbourn Way, are the best and most effective way to securing the continued viability of essential services and facilities and maintaining the vitality of the village in accordance with paragraph 83 of the NPPF.

3.1.23 The Site remains Available, Achievable and Suitable for residential development.

Land at Hillside, Orwell (Site ID 115802, HELAA ID 40496)

3.1.24 Endurance Estates objects strongly to the proposed Inset Map for Orwell on the basis of the omission of a site specific policy allocating Land at Hillside, Orwell for a residential development.

3.1.25 Orwell is categorised as a Group Village under draft Policy S/SH. The village has experienced moderate growth since the 2001 Census, increasing by approximately 6%. However, this is significantly below the growth rate of South Cambridgeshire, which saw population growth of just under 25% during the same period. As of the 2025 Regulation 18 Consultation, there are no residential allocations proposed within the village.

3.1.26 Orwell benefits from a Primary School, Public House, Post Office, Convenience Store and a Village Hall. The Village also has a good bus connection to Cambridge for a wider range of services.

3.1.27 Land at Hillside, Orwell, is promoted by Endurance Estates for a landscape-led development of approximately 26 dwellings. The 2025 HELAA did not assess the site as it was deemed to “not align with the wider Local Plan Strategy”. Endurance Estates consider that this fails to consider the contribution that the Site could make towards a controlled and proportionate growth of the Village in order to support essential services and facilities to maintain the vitality of the village in accordance with paragraph 85 of the NPPF.

3.1.28 In the absence of a formal assessment in the HELAA, Savills have undertaken a review against the criteria in the 2025 HELAA below. Please refer to Endurance Estates' full representations for this table.

3.1.29 Since the development at Hurdleditch Road was approved in 2016 (S/3190/15/OL), no further major schemes have been approved in the village. Partly as a result of the lack of site allocations there within the Adopted Local Plan.

3.1.30 Department of Education records indicate that the Petersfield C of E Primary School has 134 pupils on roll and a capacity of 210, indicating that the school is currently operating at around 64% capacity. This suggests there is capacity for growth within the village, which would help safeguard existing services for the benefit of current and future residents.

3.1.31 The Inset Map for Orwell should be updated to reflect the capacity of the village for a controlled and proportionate level of growth to support the Village’s services. This should include, as a minimum, Land at Hillside, Orwell for a residential development of circa 26 dwellings.

3.1.32 The Site remains Available, Achievable and Suitable for residential development.

Housing Allocations should be made at the Endurance Estates' sites atLand to the rear of Old House Road, Balsham (Site ID 115953, HELAA ID 40438). This site can contribute towards local housing needs to ensure the vitality of the existing services within the villages, and the viability of ongoing provision.

3.1.1 Endurance Estates consider that the housing allocations across the rural area are insufficient to meet local housing needs in the villages of the District and reflect wider concerns set out in our response to the wider Policies that confirm the Plan is not providing for sufficient number of new homes.

3.1.2 In particular, Endurance Estates strongly objects to Draft Policy S/RRA on the basis that it omits the following proposed site allocations:

• Land South of Horseheath Road, Linton (Site ID 115248, HELAA ID 40554)
• Land to the rear of Old House Road, Balsham (Site ID 115953, HELAA ID 40438)
• Land off the Causeway, Bassingbourn (Site ID 116001, HELAA ID 40228)
• Land off Elbourn Way, Bassingbourn (Site ID 116006, HELAA ID 40227)
• Land at Hillside, Orwell (Site ID 115802, HELAA ID 40496)

Linton (Site ID 115248, HELAA ID 40554)

3.1.3 Endurance Estates have consistently promoted Land South of Horseheath Road, and sought to provide updated technical information at every given opportunity. The 2025 HELAA relating to the landscape impact states that the “Site is highly sensitive in landscape terms and development in this location would be highly visible, creating adverse impacts on landscape character and local views. These impacts are significant when considered cumulatively alongside other development on adjacent land”. It is not clear on what basis this conclusion was reached, as detailed Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments have concluded that development of the site can be sufficiently mitigated through a considerate, landscape-led design and planting scheme.

3.1.4 As a Minor Rural Centre, Linton is demonstrably a sustainable settlement. Linton benefits from a Infant, Junior and Secondary Schools, a Library, several shops and cafes, public houses, a GP Surgery, dental practice, and an excellent range of sports and recreation facilities, including a skate park, swimming pool and sports pavilion. It is therefore considered that the site, and by extension the village of Linton, benefits from sufficient accessibility to essential shops and services, alongside the ability to travel sustainably further afield for a full array of services in both the surrounding villages and Cambridge.

3.1.5 Linton also now benefits from two committed schemes which are coming forward over the next few years and which remained subject to uncertainty at the Local Plan First Proposals stage. These significant transport infrastructure investments being brought forward by the GCP and include the Linton Greenway and CSET Busway. Both schemes will materially improve the sustainability of the settlement in a way which we consider has not been reflected in the assessment of the village’s potential to accommodate growth sustainably. The Linton Greenway is understood to be approaching completion, with the majority of the route between Linton and the Abingtons now in use. Linton therefore benefits from a high-quality, direct, safe and segregated pedestrian and cycle route to both Granta Park and the Babraham Research Campus - two of the largest employment sites in the District.

3.1.6 In addition, the proposed CSET scheme, which will reach examination in 2026, will provide fast and direct public transport connections into Cambridge and the Biomedical Campus from a new Travel Hub on the A11 Junction at Fourwentways. The CSET busway and Travel Hub are both easily accessible via the Greenway from Linton. It is expected that the CSET scheme will come forward as envisaged prior to or in a similar timeframe to the development of the site.

3.1.7 The supporting text to Policy S/DS: Development Strategy outlines that “We [Greater Cambridge] also have evidence that locating homes close to existing and proposed jobs at the cluster of research parks to the south of Cambridge would help reduce commuting and associated carbon emissions and congestion”. This acknowledgement is endorsed by Endurance Estates as recognition of the sustainability of villages in the Southern Cluster, which includes Linton. Despite this sensible admission, it makes the lack of any residential allocations within Linton difficult to understand, particularly with the transport enhancement schemes being brought forward by GCP with the express purpose of improving the accessibility of the Village to employment sites.

3.1.8 Please refer to Endurance Estates' full representations for an extract from the 2025 HELAA site assessments, alongside comments from the promotion team.

3.1.9 Endurance Estates contend that the omission of Land South of Horseheath Road fails to recognise Linton’s accessible location and the likelihood that this will shortly be enhanced through planned public transport improvements, along with the good level of existing service provision. The site and village as a whole is outside of the Green Belt and the identified landscape constraints are capable of being overcome through a landscape-led design approach.

3.1.10 Linton is therefore demonstrably a sustainable location capable for accommodating further housing growth to meet the identified local need and its allocation would be consistent with the strategy of focussing growth in the Rural Southern Cluster, close to existing employment sites. In this regard, Greater Cambridge should allocate Land South of Horseheath Road for a sustainable development of approximately 100 market and affordable homes within the village.

3.1.11 The Site remains Available, Achievable and Suitable for residential development.

Balsham (Site ID 115953, HELAA ID 40438)

3.1.12 Endurance Estates objects strongly to the proposed Inset Map for Balsham on the grounds that it does not propose allocation of Land at Old House Road for residential development. The Policies Map proposes no residential allocations within the village, Endurance Estates are promoting Land to the Rear of Old House Road, Balsham which is considered capable of accommodating a scheme of approximately 25 new dwellings.

3.1.13 Crucially, draft Policy S/SH states that “limited development will help maintain remaining services and facilities and provide for affordable housing to meet local needs”. This acknowledgement is strongly supported by Endurance Estates, however the lack of any allocated development to ensure the long-term vitality of the village’s facilities is disappointing.

3.1.14 Balsham had a population of 1,623 as of the 2021 Census, which represents an approximate 1% decrease on the 1,641 residents recorded at the 2001 Census. This contrasts starkly with the wider South Cambridgeshire district, which grew by just under 25% in the same time period. This stagnation places the village’s existing services at risk of further decline. As correctly identified by the supporting text to Policy S/SH, additional growth in villages such as Balsham is key to maintaining their vitality. Simply, without growth, the range of shops and essential services is likely to continue to deteriorate.

3.1.15 Please refer to Endurance Estates' full representations for an extract from the 2025 HELAA site assessments, alongside comments from the promotion team.

3.1.16 In terms Land to the Rear of Old House Road, there were no significant issues which cannot be mitigated through the scheme design which were raised in the 2021, 2023 or 2025 HELAA documents.
3.1.17 Endurance Estates contend that the Inset Map for Balsham should be urgently updated to ensure that controlled growth can come forward, in support of essential services through the allocation of sites such as Land to the Rear of Old House Road.

3.1.18 The Site remains Available, Achievable and Suitable for residential development.

Land off the Causeway, Bassingbourn (Site ID 116001, HELAA ID 40228) and,
Land off Elbourn Way, Bassingbourn (Site ID 116006, HELAA ID 40227).

3.1.19 Endurance Estates objects strongly to the proposed Inset Map for Bassingbourn on the grounds that it does not propose allocation of either Land off the Causeway, or Land off Elbourn Way for residential development. The Policies Map proposes no residential allocations within the village, despite it being a sustainable Minor Rural Centre. Greater Cambridge recognises that the village plays a role in providing services and facilities for a rural hinterland; however, the lack of allocations to secure controlled growth moving forward puts existing services at risk of decline.

3.1.20 Bassingbourn had a population of 2,351 at the 2021 Census which represents a marked decrease on the 3,090 residents that lived in the village at the time of the 2001 Census. This decline is in stark contrast with South Cambridgeshire, which grew by just under 25% in the same time period. There is therefore an urgent need to protect the vitality of the village to secure the ongoing provision of shops, services and community facilities. The Village currently hosts a good range of shops and services including a Spar Convenience Store, Public Houses and a community centre. The Village also benefits from Bassingbourn Primary and Bassingbourn Village College. Without additional growth in villages such as Bassingbourn, which play key roles in the delivery of shops and services for rural areas of South Cambridgeshire, the breadth and quality of key shops and services is likely to deteriorate, ultimately harming the sustainability of the settlement in the long term.

3.1.21 Please refer to Endurance Estates' full representations for an extract from the 2025 HELAA site assessments, alongside comments from the promotion team.

3.1.22 The Inset Map for Bassingbourn should be updated to reflect the role of the village as a Minor Rural Centre. Proportional and sympathetic extensions to the village, such as those proposed at Land off the Causeway and Land off Elbourn Way, are the best and most effective way to securing the continued viability of essential services and facilities and maintaining the vitality of the village in accordance with paragraph 83 of the NPPF.

3.1.23 The Site remains Available, Achievable and Suitable for residential development.

Land at Hillside, Orwell (Site ID 115802, HELAA ID 40496)

3.1.24 Endurance Estates objects strongly to the proposed Inset Map for Orwell on the basis of the omission of a site specific policy allocating Land at Hillside, Orwell for a residential development.

3.1.25 Orwell is categorised as a Group Village under draft Policy S/SH. The village has experienced moderate growth since the 2001 Census, increasing by approximately 6%. However, this is significantly below the growth rate of South Cambridgeshire, which saw population growth of just under 25% during the same period. As of the 2025 Regulation 18 Consultation, there are no residential allocations proposed within the village.

3.1.26 Orwell benefits from a Primary School, Public House, Post Office, Convenience Store and a Village Hall. The Village also has a good bus connection to Cambridge for a wider range of services.

3.1.27 Land at Hillside, Orwell, is promoted by Endurance Estates for a landscape-led development of approximately 26 dwellings. The 2025 HELAA did not assess the site as it was deemed to “not align with the wider Local Plan Strategy”. Endurance Estates consider that this fails to consider the contribution that the Site could make towards a controlled and proportionate growth of the Village in order to support essential services and facilities to maintain the vitality of the village in accordance with paragraph 85 of the NPPF.

3.1.28 In the absence of a formal assessment in the HELAA, Savills have undertaken a review against the criteria in the 2025 HELAA below. Please refer to Endurance Estates' full representations for this table.

3.1.29 Since the development at Hurdleditch Road was approved in 2016 (S/3190/15/OL), no further major schemes have been approved in the village. Partly as a result of the lack of site allocations there within the Adopted Local Plan.

3.1.30 Department of Education records indicate that the Petersfield C of E Primary School has 134 pupils on roll and a capacity of 210, indicating that the school is currently operating at around 64% capacity. This suggests there is capacity for growth within the village, which would help safeguard existing services for the benefit of current and future residents.

3.1.31 The Inset Map for Orwell should be updated to reflect the capacity of the village for a controlled and proportionate level of growth to support the Village’s services. This should include, as a minimum, Land at Hillside, Orwell for a residential development of circa 26 dwellings.

3.1.32 The Site remains Available, Achievable and Suitable for residential development.

Endurance Estates contend that the Councils should seek to update the mechanism for distributing the residual housing needs at the first opportunity to ensure that it is robust and consistent across the Plan policies.

3.2.1 Endurance Estates object strongly to the housing figures set out in Appendix D on the basis that the methodology is overly simplistic and not justified.

3.2.2 It is unclear what relationship, if any, the figures provided in Figure D1 bear to identified local market and affordable housing needs. At present, it appears that the apportionment is a simple proportional basis, based upon the current population.

3.2.3 A simple apportionment approach is considered too simplistic and should be updated to reflect local need.. Local needs are influenced by local characteristics, demographics, affordability, and should consider any spare capacity in existing local services, alongside projected demographic trends.

3.2.4 Moreover, the current method does not appear to reflect the settlement hierarchy and takes no account of existing service provision. As a result, smaller villages which nonetheless have a good level of service provision are apportioned a smaller number of homes than larger villages which have a relatively poorer level of public services.

3.2.5 Endurance Estates contend that the Councils should seek to update the mechanism for distributing the residual housing needs at the first opportunity to ensure that it is robust and consistent across the Plan policies. Greater Cambridge should urgently seek to ensure that market and affordable housing needs in each of the neighbourhood areas are addressed in full.

3.2.6 The relationship between the Appendix D housing requirements and Neighbourhood Plans should also be clarified. At present, it is not clear whether the needs identified are to be delivered through forthcoming Neighbourhood Plans or whether these are in addition to any needs identified through the Neighbourhood Plan-making process. It is also not clear whether these figures should take precedence to any identified figures in Neighbourhood Plans. Endurance Estates contend that this position is unacceptably subjective and open to significant interpretation from decision makers and should be rectified in the next draft of the Plan.

3.2.7 Clarification should also confirm that these housing requirements are intended as minimum figures and not as a ceiling to village growth.

Revise the Sustainability Appraisal to ensure that all reasonable alternative sites, partcularly on the Edge of Cambridge and in the Rural Southern Cluster are considered fully.

4.1.1 The Sustainability Appraisal notes at Paragraph 4.35 that the ‘Southern Cluster’ which includes Linton, would ensure that “housing is well-located in relation to existing centres of employment”. Paragraph 4.35 continues “the scale of development in the Southern cluster should be sufficient to also provide some new services and facilities”. Paragraph 4.42, also states that development in the ‘Southern Cluster’ villages, may “help to boost the vitality and viability of village services and facilities, which is particularly likely to benefit older people and the less mobile”. These acknowledgements are strongly supported by Endurance Estates.

4.1.2 Endurance Estates assert that a balanced strategy, which includes a sustained but proportional level of growth within the villages of the district, is the simplest and most effective way of ensuring the continued provision of essential services which are relied upon by existing residents and enhancing the sustainability of these villages further. Regrettably, despite acknowledgement that growth would support existing services, growth in the ‘Southern Cluster’ has largely been overlooked in the current proposed strategy. It is not considered that this choice is robustly justified by the SA.

4.1.3 Overall, it is concerning that the SA fails to adequately consider and assess the full breadth of reasonable alternatives, particularly where it relates to releasing land from the Green Belt adjacent to Cambridge. The inadequacy of the SA risks the overall soundness of the plan and must be urgently rectified.

4.1.4 The consideration of suitable alternatives does not sufficiently consider alternative edge of Cambridge sites which, by the SA’s own admission, are the most sustainable sites after those within the City itself. Endurance Estates are promoting Land East of Gazelle Way, Cherry Hinton for a 120 acre, landscape-led, mixed-use development consisting of circa 1,000 high-quality homes, 500,000sqft of employment land and a significant provision of green open space. The development proposes to capitalise upon planned investments including the Fulbourn Greenway, whilst proposing extensive employment and a new Local Centre.

4.1.5 The East of Gazelle Way scheme has been assessed in the SA relatively positively, comparing favourably to the Cambridge East allocation which sits to the north-west of the site. Despite the similarity in the assessments of the two sites, Land East of Gazelle Way is not currently proposed for allocation.

4.1.6 The allocation of Cambridge East is supported, as are the mitigations and enhancements proposed as part of the Cambridge East scheme. Endurance Estates contend that Land East of Gazelle Way is the next most-logical Edge of Cambridge site for a comprehensive mixed-use development. Refer to Endurance Estates' full representations for a comparison between the Sustainability Appraisal of Cambridge East and Land East of Gazelle Way, which demonstrates a broadly similar assessment.

4.1.7 The Southern Cluster, which the SA confirms includes Linton, amongst other Rural Centres, Minor Rural Centres and Group Villages with ‘very good’ public transport access.

4.1.1 The Sustainability Appraisal notes at Paragraph 4.35 that the ‘Southern Cluster’ which includes Linton, would ensure that “housing is well-located in relation to existing centres of employment”. Paragraph 4.35 continues “the scale of development in the Southern cluster should be sufficient to also provide some new services and facilities”. Paragraph 4.42, also states that development in the ‘Southern Cluster’ villages, may “help to boost the vitality and viability of village services and facilities, which is particularly likely to benefit older people and the less mobile”. These acknowledgements are strongly supported by Endurance Estates.

4.1.2 Endurance Estates assert that a balanced strategy, which includes a sustained but proportional level of growth within the villages of the district, is the simplest and most effective way of ensuring the continued provision of essential services which are relied upon by existing residents and enhancing the sustainability of these villages further. Regrettably, despite acknowledgement that growth would support existing services, growth in the ‘Southern Cluster’ has largely been overlooked in the current proposed strategy. It is not considered that this choice is robustly justified by the SA.

4.1.3 Overall, it is concerning that the SA fails to adequately consider and assess the full breadth of reasonable alternatives, particularly where it relates to releasing land from the Green Belt adjacent to Cambridge. The inadequacy of the SA risks the overall soundness of the plan and must be urgently rectified.

4.1.4 The consideration of suitable alternatives does not sufficiently consider alternative edge of Cambridge sites which, by the SA’s own admission, are the most sustainable sites after those within the City itself. Endurance Estates are promoting Land East of Gazelle Way, Cherry Hinton for a 120 acre, landscape-led, mixed-use development consisting of circa 1,000 high-quality homes, 500,000sqft of employment land and a significant provision of green open space. The development proposes to capitalise upon planned investments including the Fulbourn Greenway, whilst proposing extensive employment and a new Local Centre.

4.1.5 The East of Gazelle Way scheme has been assessed in the SA relatively positively, comparing favourably to the Cambridge East allocation which sits to the north-west of the site. Despite the similarity in the assessments of the two sites, Land East of Gazelle Way is not currently proposed for allocation.

4.1.6 The allocation of Cambridge East is supported, as are the mitigations and enhancements proposed as part of the Cambridge East scheme. Endurance Estates contend that Land East of Gazelle Way is the next most-logical Edge of Cambridge site for a comprehensive mixed-use development. Refer to Endurance Estates' full representations for a comparison between the Sustainability Appraisal of Cambridge East and Land East of Gazelle Way, which demonstrates a broadly similar assessment.

4.1.7 The Southern Cluster, which the SA confirms includes Linton, amongst other Rural Centres, Minor Rural Centres and Group Villages with ‘very good’ public transport access.

The Policy needs more flexibility to provide a wide range of affordable tenures in accordance with Government policy.

1.6.16 Endurance objects to Policy H/AH since the proposed requirements of the draft Policy are considered to be unduly onerous and are not justified, positively prepared or consistent with National Policy.

1.6.17 Whilst Endurance support the continuation of the 40% affordable housing requirement it is considered that more flexibility should be provided in the proposed affordable housing tenure requirements (with the requirement currently stated as being 65% affordable rent homes, 10% social rent homes, and 25% shared ownership homes, or other affordable). It is considered that the Policy should expressly recognise that viability may justify a different percentage and / or tenure mix.

1.6.18 Moreover, the Policy needs more flexibility to provide a wide range of affordable tenures in accordance with Government policy. For example, there’s no refence to other forms of intermediate housing like discount to market provision. It is also unclear how the Policy should be applied in respect of housing with care and Keyworker provision and whether Key worker accommodation is considered as affordable.

Provide additional clarification in the policy wording and supporting text as to Policy H/AH's application to different types of accommodation, particularly keyworker housing or housing with care.

1.6.16 Endurance objects to Policy H/AH since the proposed requirements of the draft Policy are considered to be unduly onerous and are not justified, positively prepared or consistent with National Policy.

1.6.17 Whilst Endurance support the continuation of the 40% affordable housing requirement it is considered that more flexibility should be provided in the proposed affordable housing tenure requirements (with the requirement currently stated as being 65% affordable rent homes, 10% social rent homes, and 25% shared ownership homes, or other affordable). It is considered that the Policy should expressly recognise that viability may justify a different percentage and / or tenure mix.

1.6.18 Moreover, the Policy needs more flexibility to provide a wide range of affordable tenures in accordance with Government policy. For example, there’s no refence to other forms of intermediate housing like discount to market provision. It is also unclear how the Policy should be applied in respect of housing with care and Keyworker provision and whether Key worker accommodation is considered as affordable.

Allocate additional sites in villages and on the edge of Cambridge to balance growth across Greater Cambridge and provide more viable short-term growth options.

Policy S/DS: Development Strategy & Key Diagram

1.2.1 Endurance Estates object to draft Policy S/DS on the grounds that it is not positively prepared or justified when considered against the reasonable alternatives and evidence available.

1.2.2 Draft Policy S/DS, states that, as far as possible, housing and jobs needs will be met in order of preference as follows: (a) within the Cambridge Urban Area, (b) on the edge of Cambridge, (c) at an expanded Cambourne, (d) at other new settlements; and finally (e) in the rural southern cluster and wider rural area at Rural Centres and Minor Rural Centres. The order of preference has been determined in recognition of the sustainability of these locations and are broadly supported by Endurance Estates.

1.2.3 However, the strategy proposed in the Regulation 18 plan relies primarily and increasingly on strategic developments in new settlements for new housing delivery. The draft Plan makes reference to North East Cambridge (including the Waste Water Treatment Works) being the “last remaining significant brownfield site” within the City, which has resulted in the provision of housing within the Urban Area, the most sustainable location within the District, falling from 19% to 11% of the proposed provision. The Draft Policy also confirms that the ‘Edge of Cambridge’ is the second most sustainable location, and so it would be expected that there would be a corresponding increase in the proportion of housing to be delivered on the edge of the City, however the share of housing proposed for ‘Edge of Cambridge’ sites is proposed to fall from 35% in the 2018 Plans to 29% in the Draft. There has also been a decrease in the proportion of dwellings proposed to be delivered through the Rural Area (including through windfalls) – falling from 23% in the 2018 Plans, to just 16% in the proposed draft.

1.2.4 A total of 44% of the identified need is proposed to be delivered through new settlements, up from 23% in the 2018 Plans. The Plan therefore concentrates development on the New Settlements at the expense of every other location across Greater Cambridge. This position is summarised in Table 2 below.

Please refer to Endurance Estates' full representations for Table 2.

Assess the market and affordable housing needs in Greater Cambridge's villages to identify potential revisions to the overall development strategy.

Policy S/DS: Development Strategy & Key Diagram

1.2.1 Endurance Estates object to draft Policy S/DS on the grounds that it is not positively prepared or justified when considered against the reasonable alternatives and evidence available.

1.2.2 Draft Policy S/DS, states that, as far as possible, housing and jobs needs will be met in order of preference as follows: (a) within the Cambridge Urban Area, (b) on the edge of Cambridge, (c) at an expanded Cambourne, (d) at other new settlements; and finally (e) in the rural southern cluster and wider rural area at Rural Centres and Minor Rural Centres. The order of preference has been determined in recognition of the sustainability of these locations and are broadly supported by Endurance Estates.

1.2.3 However, the strategy proposed in the Regulation 18 plan relies primarily and increasingly on strategic developments in new settlements for new housing delivery. The draft Plan makes reference to North East Cambridge (including the Waste Water Treatment Works) being the “last remaining significant brownfield site” within the City, which has resulted in the provision of housing within the Urban Area, the most sustainable location within the District, falling from 19% to 11% of the proposed provision. The Draft Policy also confirms that the ‘Edge of Cambridge’ is the second most sustainable location, and so it would be expected that there would be a corresponding increase in the proportion of housing to be delivered on the edge of the City, however the share of housing proposed for ‘Edge of Cambridge’ sites is proposed to fall from 35% in the 2018 Plans to 29% in the Draft. There has also been a decrease in the proportion of dwellings proposed to be delivered through the Rural Area (including through windfalls) – falling from 23% in the 2018 Plans, to just 16% in the proposed draft.

1.2.4 A total of 44% of the identified need is proposed to be delivered through new settlements, up from 23% in the 2018 Plans. The Plan therefore concentrates development on the New Settlements at the expense of every other location across Greater Cambridge. This position is summarised in Table 2 below.

Please refer to Endurance Estates' full representations for Table 2.