Draft North East Cambridge Area Action Plan

Mostly yes

We broadly support the proposed use of SJIP for business-led development (see Annex 3). We would query the 35,100m2 of business space, shops and local services that is indicated in the plan for CSP. This figure appears to have been derived from Appendix A of the ‘Typologies Study and Development Capacity Assessment January 2020’ (‘TSDCA’). The Site falls within zone ‘R’ of that document (Annex 4), which states a parcel size of 4.33ha (gross), and that a ‘discussions with landowner confirms availability during the Plan period. Landowner has confirmed that the intention is to intensify existing land uses within this site and not to introduce residential development.’ Site R is identified as having potential capacity for 22,000m2 (NIA). It is not clear from the TSDCA plan which plots are considered for this, and we would welcome clarification from GCSP on this point. Vitrum is approximately 3,200m2 (GIA), and offers potential to increase floorspace significantly, by increasing its height to 6-storeys (max) and utilising a large element of its current car park.

Mostly yes

We would like to query why the plan takes a more cautious approach to heights than is recommended in the ‘Landscape Character and Visual Impact Appraisal January 2020’ (‘LCVIA’). For the area in which Vitrum is positioned, the LCVIA recommends ‘up to 6 storeys – 18m’ (Annex 5) and we think the plan in question 6 might follow this approach and simply state ‘up to 6 storeys’ rather than ‘typically 4 – 5 storeys, maximum 6 storeys’ (Annex 6). This change in reference would make it clear what the general upper height parameter should be (rather than the current format which implies that only in special and limited circumstances will 6 storeys be deemed acceptable), thereby creating a positively-worded policy that will help optimise economic development across the SJIP.

Mostly yes

No answer given

Mostly yes

No answer given