Draft Greater Cambridge Local Plan for consultation

Comment

Representation ID: 211587

Received: 30/01/2026

Respondent: Terra Strategic

Terra note that no density figures have been provided within the draft policy. Whilst it is acknowledged that character and local context should inform appropriate density levels, the absence of any minimum figures creates uncertainty at the early planning, feasibility and land valuation stages. The inclusion of broad density guidance as part of the policy’s design-led and context-led
approach, would improve consistency in decision-making, ensure that sites come forward with proposals which make efficient use of land in line with national planning policy.

Therefore, it is recommended that draft Policy GP/HD is amended to include indicative density ranges that provide clarity for developers and decision-makers.

Comment

Representation ID: 211588

Received: 30/01/2026

Respondent: Terra Strategic

The policy also sets out requirements for accessible and adaptable homes requiring all new build houses to be designed in accordance with Building Regulations M4(2) standard, this is noted and in line with the separate legislation contained in Building Regulations.

On developments over 20 units, draft Policy H/SS sets out a requirement for 10% of the affordable units and 5% of the of Market homes to meet M4(3) regulations. This will have implications for the cost of development and as such could be a challenge for SME’s delivering small to medium size developments. Accordingly, this should be an optional requirement, if viability allows for M4 (3) to be provided on a proportion of the units in a development. It is noted that exceptions to meeting both the M4(2) and M4 (3) will be taken into account if justification for site specific circumstances is provided however, Terra request that the policy should be drafted to include reference specifically to considerations of viability.