Greater Cambridge Local Plan Issues & Options 2020

Yes, somewhat agree

4.23 We agree that tree cover should be increased in the area due to the environmental benefits that can be achieved, and the area is known to have a low proportion of woodland compared to the rest of the UK. Whilst the principle of increasing tree cover has a number of environmental benefits, this approach would need to be balanced having regard to the potential changes to the landscape character of an area and other influences such as drainage.

4.24 It is essential that the strategy for growth is flexible to allow the promotion of well-being and social inclusion across the Greater Cambridge Area. This is supported by the NPPF that requires Local Plans to achieve healthy, inclusive and safe places. 4.25 In relation to existing settlements, unless an element of growth is allowed, they will become stagnant with little opportunity to improve the existing services and facilities. Development that would support improvement to existing sustainable locations should therefore be supported. This would require a flexible approach to settlement hierarchy and a step change to the major focus at present on Cambridge itself and the associated pull of the city. Whilst the councils’ current approach has focused on larger scale developments to create new communities, this takes time and ignores the opportunities for improving existing villages and the specific issues facing residents living in rural communities. Within these areas, the promotion of well-being and social inclusion along with the opportunity to ensure places are safe and accessible so that the fear of crime does not undermine quality of life should also be considered. 4.26 The land the subject of these representations would support the approach to development within the GCLP as it would provide the opportunity to provide a range of housing and employment land that would meet the various needs of the community and improve accessibility. There is further land available that would improve the footpath and cycle links between Meldreth and Melbourn and the linkages to the Station. This would improve safety, accessibility and support healthy lifestyles through the provision of greenspaces within the development and improve opportunities to walk and cycle in the area. The key improvements would be access to the station and links for pupils to Melbourn Village College.

4.27 It is essential that a variety of engagement takes place with all stakeholders. New development is often viewed in a negative fashion by the local community. It is important that the positive aspects in particular where local improvements can be made are fully supported in a positive way. Early engagement with the community to understand the issues that are relevant to the area is therefore important. Concerns may relate to infrastructure provision and if the councils have relevant evidence it is often possible to address these concerns early on and ensure timely delivery.

4.28 The previous approach has focused on major developments on the edge of Cambridge and new settlements. It is essential that a wider approach is considered where improvements can be offered to existing settlements. This should include a range of homes and a wider mix of tenure of dwellings that are adaptable in their lifetime to ensure Greater Cambridge offers a wider range of inclusive homes not solely in new communities. This ensures that existing communities also have the opportunity to be accessible for all with a mixed community.

4.29 We support the broad approach outlined in the GCLP. Healthy lifestyles involve a range of issues that extend well beyond the built form. Access to housing education and work are key considerations but the overall quality of the environment is important to ensure physical and mental well-being. The focus should not be dominated by new communities but how existing areas could be improved as well. The councils should also ensure that the overall approach to healthy lifestyles is fit for the future and this for example should consider the impact of the internet on providing health advice etc without the need to travel to facilities. Encouraging walking and cycling as part of daily life by improving the offering should also be considered. Providing the opportunity for people to grow their own food through the provision of allotments is also a consideration. 4.30 Access to the nature and location of employment is also an important consideration in healthy lifestyles. It is important that a variety of employment exists to ensure a balanced community exists and this is essential to create sustainable communities. Not all employment needs or should be focused on the city centre or the edge of the city. This encourages travel to the city centre with associated air quality and congestion matters.

4.31 The aim should be to encourage less use of the private car and encourage sustainable forms of transport. Support should be given to growth in a wider variety of areas that could potentially reduce the length of journeys. Higher priorities should be given to support existing settlements that are in sustainable locations where development can offer wider improvements to the community, in particular improving walking, cycling and public transport. The availability of infrastructure to support electric vehicles is also a consideration but the wider sustainability issues of electric vehicles and the availability of electricity need to be addressed first.

4.32 It is important to clearly identify what has heritage value and the reasons why. Any policies should be positively worded rather than restrictive.

4.33 It is important to clearly identify what has heritage value and the reasons why. Any policies should be positively worded rather than restrictive.

4.34 Design is always subjective and whilst it is important to have guidelines, this should not be so restrictive that it prevents innovation. There is an increasing variety of guidance and advice that in some cases conflicts. Any policies and guidance should be provided in clear and simple manner that acknowledges how technology and innovation may change the way we live and work during the plan period.

Nothing chosen

4.35 Economic growth is a very important part of the next Local Plan. Whilst there is a focus on the strategic growth corridors and high tech business, it is essential that other types of industry are supported to ensure there is a diverse range of jobs available for local people that support the overall aims of sustainable growth. The Plan should therefore seek to encourage a range of employment opportunities in the rural area in sustainable locations. This approach to rural diversification is also supported by the NPPF and could decrease commuting. 4.36 The villages of Meldreth and Melbourn meet a variety of local needs, as well as providing valuable and varied employment. The land that is the subject of this representation provides the opportunity to ensure employment land is provided within the development that would support local firms and provide suitable affordable buildings for their needs. This would ensure employment retention and avoid businesses leaving the area and potentially increasing commuting out of the area.