Approval Granted for 4,500 Homes Despite Water Supply Concerns

Planning permission has been granted for the construction of up to 4,500 new residences, notwithstanding reservations regarding water supply previously expressed by the Environment Agency. The South Cambridgeshire District Council sanctioned the housing proposals for the Waterbeach new town, concurrently issuing outline planning permission to RLW Estates. This comprehensive approval encompasses the establishment of facilities for business, retail, community, leisure, and sports, alongside the creation of new primary and secondary educational institutions and a sixth form centre. The Environment Agency initially raised an objection to these plans in 2021; however, by November 2024, it withdrew its objection, substituting it with a recommendation for the implementation of specific conditions. These plans are set to finalize the development of the Waterbeach new town, following an earlier authorization granted to Urban&Civic for the construction of up to 6,500 homes. The approval of planning permission had been postponed due to deliberations concerning infrastructure requirements and more recent challenges related to water supply within Greater Cambridge. Subsequent to the government’s formation of a Water Scarcity Group specifically for Cambridge, the council indicated its ability to proceed with approving the plans. Dr Tumi Hawkins, who serves as the lead cabinet member for planning at the district council, stated that the annual housing target for Greater Cambridge increased this month from 1,675 homes per year, as stipulated in the adopted 2018 Local Plan, to 2,309 homes per year. She commented, “At a time of national focus on the delivery of new homes and economic growth, being able to issue the final permission for this site will help the council to meet the growing pressure.. to bring forward sites for new housing.” She further added, “With the work of the Water Scarcity Group and the conditions that are attached to the permission, I am also reassured that the Environment Agency have removed their holding objection to the development proceeding.” The planning committee of the district council reviewed the application in January 2021. It was determined that permission ought to be granted, contingent upon certain conditions and the assurance that essential infrastructure, such as schools, community spaces, and affordable housing, would be secured if required. The Environment Agency had previously lodged an objection due to worries regarding water supply and the sufficiency of Cambridge Water’s proposals to satisfy future demand. The Water Scarcity Group, in collaboration with other entities including the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service, undertook efforts to address these concerns.