Draft Greater Cambridge Local Plan for consultation

Whilst at this stage not an objection, we have concerns around the wording of elements of this site allocation which if not addressed could be detrimental to the future facilities and cultural provision offered by Cambridge Junction, an important facility which is highly valued by local people.

The site allocation gives rise to the possibility that the Junction might be redeveloped or relocated in the future, or at the very least will have new development built around it. In those scenarios it is essential that there is no deterioration in the nature and standard of facilities provided by the Junction, and that its operations are not subject to future restrictions and conditions which would reduce its viability and undermine its offer. The allocation brief recognises the Junction as "a locally and regionally important venue" which will "form the centre of this neighbourhood". However, some of the current policy wording is insufficient to secure that.

Under the third bullet point we suggest revision to: 'concert and performance spaces including for live music and theatre (Sui generis)'. This reflects the Junction's core functions, which also allow for associated mediums such as comedy and talks.

We urge strengthening of 1.b to ensure a future Junction is at least of the same standard as the current one, which includes ensuring sufficient volume of space, capacity, audience and back of house facilities, technical capabilities and servicing. It must also be ensured there is no gap in provision should redevelopment occur. As such we suggest the addition of 'that meet the needs of the venue' after 'a range of flexible spaces' within the second sentence. In the third sentence, the word 'should' should be changed to 'must'.

Under part o. again we urge changing 'should' to 'must' because theatres and other such performance venues have particular servicing arrangements associated with the needs of touring shows, without which the venue would become unattractive to producers meaning shows avoiding Cambridge and the venue's viability would be undermined.

With the potential presence of residential uses, it must also be made clear that positioning and design must avoid conflict with the Junction and its operations in line with current paragraph 200 ('agent of change') of the NPPF.

We support this policy and the protection it affords to valued facilities in line with paragraph 98 of the NPPF (2024).