Councillors in Cambridge give green light to contentious residential development projects
New Development: Eddeva Park Project Approved in Cambridge
The Eddeva Park project, located off Babraham Road in Cambridge, has received approval from Cambridge City Council to construct 80 new homes. This development, spearheaded by the development company This Land, will also feature a central community square and a wildflower area.
The initial plans, approved in 2021, allowed for up to 230 homes to be built on the site. However, changes have been made to the design following concerns raised, including adjustments to garden space and bin lorry access.
At a recent council meeting, representatives of the development company explained that they had taken a 'design-led approach' to the new homes. This approach aims to create a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing living environment for the future residents.
Of the 80 new properties, 40% will be designated as affordable housing to help address the current cost-of-living crisis. This commitment to affordable housing is a welcome move in a city where housing prices have been rising steadily.
Cllr Katie Porrer, a member of the Liberal Democrats, raised concerns about the size of the gardens in the Eddeva Park project. She suggested installing an electricity supply in the community square to avoid the use of diesel generators for pop-up events and businesses, aiming to promote a greener and more sustainable community.
Another concern voiced by Cllr Porrer was about the biodiversity of the flat roofs in the Eddeva Park project. According to council policy, all flat roofs should be biodiverse unless there are accessibility reasons why they cannot be. However, only 45% of the flat roofs in the Eddeva Park project are 'biodiverse'.
Despite these concerns, the committee councillors voted unanimously in favour of approving the Eddeva Park project plans. The main spine road for the project, which was approved in 2022, is expected to start work immediately.
Cllr Martin Smart, a Labour councillor, shared Cllr Porrer's concerns about the biodiversity of the flat roofs in the Eddeva Park project. He emphasised the importance of ensuring that developments in the city are environmentally friendly and promote biodiversity.
The construction company approved by the Cambridge city administration for the Eddeva Park project to build 80 new apartments is not publicly specified, but the approval was granted in 2023.
The Eddeva Park project, with its mix of new homes, community spaces, and commitment to affordable housing, is set to contribute positively to the Cambridge community. The project's focus on sustainability and biodiversity also underscores the city's commitment to creating a greener and more environmentally friendly future.
