Controversial new residences in Cambridge gain approval from city council members

The Eddeva Park project, located off Babraham Road in Cambridge, has received the green light for the construction of 80 new properties. The development, led by the company This Land, will also include a central square and a wildflower area.

At a council meeting on Wednesday, representatives from the development company stated they had taken a 'design-led approach' to the new homes. Work on the main spine road for the Eddeva Park project is scheduled to start immediately, following the approval of details in 2022.

However, concerns were raised by some councillors. Cllr Katie Porrer (Lib Dem, Market) expressed concerns about the size of the gardens in the project, suggesting installing an electricity supply in the community square to prevent the use of diesel generators for pop-up events and businesses. Cllr Martin Smart (Lab, King's Hedges) also raised concerns about the lack of biodiverse flat roofs in the project.

In response to these concerns, adaptations were made to the design of the homes, including adjustments to the size of some gardens and space for bin lorries to pass through. Nevertheless, Cllr Katie Porrer questioned why only 45% of the flat roofs in the project are 'biodiverse'. According to council policy, all flat roofs should be biodiverse unless there are accessibility reasons why they cannot be.

Despite these concerns, the committee councillors voted unanimously in favor of approving the Eddeva Park project plans. The initial approval for the project, allowing up to 230 homes, was granted by the local authority in 2021.

It's worth noting that 40% of the 80 new properties will be designated as affordable to help local residents during the current cost-of-living crisis. The development group behind the construction of the 80 new apartments within the Eddeva Park project is Eddeva Park Developments Ltd.

At present, no new information about the start or progress of construction for the Eddeva Park project has been provided. The project, with its mix of homes, communal spaces, and commitment to sustainability, is eagerly anticipated by the Cambridge community.

Controversial new residences in Cambridge gain approval from city council members