Bourn Airfield New Village

A Spatial Framework & Infrastructure Delivery Plan

Supplementary Planning Document

Adopted October 2019

1 Executive Summary

For further information please contact: Greater Cambridge shared planning policy team Introduction Tel: 01954 713183 The South Cambridgeshire Local Plan was adopted in September 2018. Email: [email protected] Policy SS/7 allocates land south of the A428 at Bourn Airfield for a new village of approximately 3,500 dwellings in addition to a range of supporting South Cambridgeshire District Council infrastructure, services and facilities. This Supplementary Planning South Cambridgeshire Hall Document (SPD) has been drafted to guide the implementation of the new Cambourne Business Park village, providing more detail to the adopted policy. Cambridge CB23 6EA What does the SPD say?

The SPD provides an overview of the site context and key issues to be addressed, noting the location of the site immediately to the east of Cambourne and west of Highfields Caldecote.

The vision for the new village is:

Bourn Airfield will be a distinct new South Cambridgeshire village acknowledging its historic past but with its own contemporary identity. A diverse, yet integrated community, with a range of facilities and services to complement, not compete with, existing local provision. Well connected to the wider area by high quality public transport and providing employment and homes to support the Greater Cambridge economy. The village will have a vibrant and strong heart, supporting healthy, active and inclusive community lifestyles and providing a high quality of life for its residents in a beautiful contemporary landscape setting.

The village will be embedded in a network of multi-functional green infrastructure, which is accessible and sustainable, being integrated with the natural environment. Supporting walking, cycling and public transport as the preferred mode of choice for travel for people within the new village and beyond, and facilitating a move towards net zero carbon lifestyles through an innovative approach to planning, design and construction.

i This vision is further supported by six strategic objectives: The SPD sets out the expectations in respect of achieving high levels of sustainable construction, but also looking to the overall layout of the 1. A Well Connected Place new village to provide opportunities for innovation and creative planning. 2. Vibrant, Prosperous and Inclusive There are exciting opportunities for the new village at Bourn Airfield to 3. Healthy, Active and Resilient incorporate energy generation and efficiency measures that will mean the new village becomes an exemplar development in moving towards net zero 4. Locally Distinctive carbon lifestyles. 5. Responsive and Sustainable

6. Cohesive, Well Planned and Well Governed The Infrastructure Delivery Plan identifies the necessary supporting facilities and infrastructure that will be required to ensure the new village is successful and cohesive. These elements include a secondary school and The Spatial Framework which is set out in a plan establishes the broad two primary schools, a village centre and additional neighbourhood hub structure for development of the new village along with the indicative with community facilities. Also, improvements to existing pedestrian, cycle positions of key land uses, primary movement, and green and blue and bridleway routes and the creation of new links in and around the new infrastructure. The Framework is supported by a series of guiding principles village. There will be a wide range of green infrastructure, including parks and spatial fixes, which are key to the delivery of a successful place. and sports pitches to support a healthy lifestyle for its residents.

The new village will form a street network that integrates movement and place, in an environment that promotes walking and cycling. The delivery of the Cambourne to Cambridge High Quality Public Transport route will provide two stops to the new village. One of the stops will be adjacent to the village centre, where a number of retail, commercial and community uses, in addition to the secondary school, will be located. These facilities will lead to the Runway Park, reflecting the alignment of the former north-south runway and providing a substantial linear park.

ii iii Foreword

This Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) concerns the Bourn Airfield New Village. It has been prepared by South Cambridgeshire District Council (SCDC) and our consultants Arup. The document provides guidance about how the new village should be designed, developed and delivered in accordance with Policy SS/7 of the adopted South Cambridgeshire Local Plan (2018). It is informed by survey work and analysis.

iv v Contents

1 Introduction 3 2 Site Context 11 3 Vision & Objectives 25 4 Spatial Framework 29 5 Creating the Place 33 6 Delivering the Place 73

Appendices 93

vi 1 1 Introduction

Figure 1 | Strategic Location 1.1 Background This SPD has been prepared in partnership by Arup and South Cambridgeshire District Bourn Airfield has been allocated in the Council (SCDC), working in collaboration South Cambridgeshire Local Plan (2018) with technical and community stakeholders, for the development of a new village of and the site promoters. approximately 3,500 homes, together with associated community facilities and The SPD has been subject to wider public infrastructure improvements (Local Plan consultation (see Sections 1.4 and 1.7 for Policy SS/7: Bourn Airfield New Village). As further information on the SPD process and a major development site, it represents a engagement). significant opportunity to deliver an example of excellence in sustainable development The SPD is a significant material and healthier living, which will make a consideration in determining any planning significant contribution to the long-term applications for the development of the site. development needs of the Cambridge area.

The Bourn Airfield New Village Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) expands upon Local Plan Policy SS/7 and provides additional details and guidance relating to comprehensive development and delivery of the new village and the creation of a successful place.

Figure 2 | Policy SS/7 Allocation

2 3 1.2 Purpose & Scope 1.3 Key Issues historic settlement patterns (and on- 5. Relationship with the existing going growth of Cambourne) will be a employment site The purpose of this SPD is to ensure a The success of delivering a new village fundamental consideration in determining comprehensive approach to masterplanning will be dependent on a variety of factors. the physical relationships, context and An existing manufacturing use, under and development of the new village, in Several key delivery issues have been setting between new and existing places. separate ownerships, is located towards a manner which is responsive its local identified for the SPD to address: the north-eastern corner of the major context. It provides clarity to assist The development of Bourn Airfield development site. The design and layout developers, landowners and delivery 1. Delivering a strong community with its should not result in the coalescence of of development will need to consider stakeholders in creating a place that own identity settlements. In particular, there should how to accommodate or integrate the integrates new housing with a range of not appear to be a continuous ribbon of employment uses should they remain land-use, infrastructure, landscapes and It will be important for the new development along the A428, as required in their current format, expand and re- existing communities. community to establish a distinct by Section 6b of Local Plan Policy SS/7. develop, or vacate the site. sense of identity. Due to the location Each settlement should be defined by The SPD provides a clear vision, and of the site, and given its proximity to substantial structural landscape. This will include consideration of the framework for planning the new village and surrounding villages, a balance needs visual and aesthetic impacts, amenity sets out broad delivery mechanisms. to be struck between creating a new 4. Supporting a shift towards sustainable issues (including noise and air quality), place with its own unique identity and access and movement and the need to retain suitable vehicular The SPD is structured to provide a clear building an appropriate relationship with access for future residents and visitors to explanation of how the new village should the form and character of existing local There is significant opportunity to the new village. be developed: settlements and landscape. create a well-connected and sustainable development through the promotion Successful comprehensive delivery 1. Site context outlines existing land-uses, This SPD sets out an overall of high-quality pedestrian and cycling of this site will require engagement, landscape, heritage assets, access infrastructure requirement necessary for connections and improved public collaboration and co-ordination between and connectivity, and relationships the new village, focusing on what will transport infrastructure. The success site promoters and landowners of both to nearby communities, as well as be required early in the development of this will be dependent on resolving the principal site and employment opportunities and constraints for the to help secure the foundation of strong existing movement and access sites to ensure that the new village is site; community cohesiveness, as well as limitations, the provision of strategic cohesively designed with the necessary establishing appropriate relationships supporting infrastructure, and the ability supporting infrastructure provided at the 2. Vision and Objectives sets out an with existing communities. to provide meaningful connections with right time. overarching, high level vision and existing settlements and destinations. strategic objectives for the new village; 2. Green to the core 6. Potential capacity of the site 3. The Spatial Framework identifies the Policy SS/7 sets out no vehicular broad locations and requirements for In recognition of the impacts of climate access will be provided to the Broadway Local experience has shown that new various components of the new village; change SCDC aspires to create a for southbound traffic, therefore, settlements of this scale can support cleaner, greener and zero-carbon future traffic management solutions must a secondary school which is also 4. Creating the Place provides a series for all its communities. It will therefore be considered from the outset and important for community cohesion. This of guiding principles, which explain be necessary for all elements of the incorporated into design proposals must be balanced with housing built at how the strategic objectives should be new village to integrate with the natural to prevent ‘rat running’. Achieving appropriate densities across the site, delivered, and spatial fixes which are environment, be innovatively designed enhancements to the wider walking, sensitive to setting and context. required to deliver them on-site where and planned to meet and where possible cycling and horse-riding network appropriate; exceed sustainability policy targets, connectivity is also be a key requirement. Policy SS/7 provides that the final 5. Delivering the place includes an and to secure net gains in biodiversity. number of dwellings will be determined Infrastructure Delivery Plan and Any adverse environmental impacts will The SPD sets out key access and through a design-led approach and outlines the mechanisms and not be supported unless they can be movement principles, alongside spatial framework diagram within this collaborative approaches to phasing appropriately justified and mitigated. a package of critical transport SPD. This SPD will consider those infrastructure, to help support a shift factors when drawing together the spatial and delivery of the new development to 3. Settlement pattern ensure a well-served and functioning from the reliance upon the private car options. place is established from the start. to more sustainable transport modes for The new village will be situated close to journeys internal and external to the new Cambourne to the west and Highfields settlement. Caldecote to the east and to the north of Bourn Village, each of which has a strong landscape setting. The respective

4 5 1.4 Process and Programme 1.5 Planning consent for Figure 3 | Planning policy and consents timeline development Figure 3 sets out the key steps in the preparation of the Supplementary Planning The SPD forms one part of the planning Document. process between Local Plan allocation and people moving in to the built settlement. Prior to the preparation of the draft SPD This process is set out in Figure 3. the Council undertook initial engagement with landowners, stakeholders and local In parallel to the preparation of the SPD, community representatives (see Section the site promoters submitted their outline 1.7). Initial proposals for the site have been planning application to the Council for subject to review by the Cambridgeshire determination. The Council can determine Quality Panel in June 2016 and December the planning application now the SPD 2017. These processes informed the draft has been adopted. Applications should SPD. demonstrate a comprehensive approach to development, as set out in this document. In order to comply with legislation, the SPD is accompanied by the following documents: There are three key land holdings within the overall site of Bourn Airfield. For the largest 1. Strategic Environmental Assessment part of the site, Countryside PLC submitted Screening Report (SEA). an outline planning application (S/3440/18/ OL) in September 2018. Additionally, there 2. Habitats Regulations Screening Report are two further smaller landholdings in the (HRA). north east section of the overall allocation for the new village. It is understood that 3. Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA). these are to remain in employment use, and a planning application has been submitted Each of these documents was published for (reference number: S/1031/19). The Council public consultation alongside the draft SPD. will be mindful of these additional, but separate, processes which are running in The Council is also required to publish a parallel to the preparation of the SPD. Consultation Statement which outlines the consultation undertaken in accordance The development of the new village will with the provisions of the Statement of take several years to obtain the necessary Community Involvement. planning consents and longer to build out. It is important to ensure that each All the comments received on the draft SPD of the individual phases is accompanied and accompanying documents during the by the timely provision of appropriate consultation period were considered by the infrastructure and facilities to serve the new Council before finalising the SPD (and the residents and enable the new community to accompanying documents). establish itself.

The adopted SPD is a significant material consideration in the determination of planning applications for development.

6 7 1.6 Planning Policy Context further supported by the Planning Practice cycling, walking and public transport, 1.7 Community Engagement Guidance2, providing additional detail to including the delivery of high-quality National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) national policy. public transport links to Cambridge, as Many people and organisations have part of a rapid, high quality, route between an interest in the proposals to develop The NPPF1 provides a positive policy South Cambridgeshire Local Plan Cambourne and Cambridge. Bourn Airfield New Village. National policy context for the consideration of the requires that this should be more than a new village. A presumption in favour of The South Cambridgeshire Local Plan The Greater Cambridge Partnership (GCP)5 simplified process of scrutinising proposals sustainable development is at the heart of (SCLP)3 was adopted in September is responsible for delivering the new route but involve a creative exercise in finding Government policy and place making based 2018 following an extensive independent between Cambourne and Cambridge; the ways to enhance and improve the places in upon the ‘three pillars’ of sustainability examination. The Local Plan covers the alignment will serve the new village. The which people live their lives. – economic, social and environmental development period 2011-2031. Policy SS/7: alignment through the new village (shown components. Bourn Airfield New Village allocates the site on the Spatial Framework Diagram) has The draft SPD was prepared following for approximately 3,500 new homes. been agreed in consultation with the GCP discussions with public sector stakeholders, In addition, the achievement of high-quality and Cambridgeshire County Council. local community representatives and buildings and places is a fundamental Policy SS/7: Bourn Airfield New Village landowners, to gather initial concerns, strand of planning. Good design is a provides detail on the components for the The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough aspirations and ideas, and later to refine key aspect of achieving sustainable New Village including the requirement Combined Authority is the Local Transport initial thinking about the vision, objectives development and healthy communities, for an SPD to provide greater detail and Authority and is preparing a new Local and spatial framework. Further information creating better places in which to live clarity on spatial outcomes and delivery. Transport Plan for Cambridgeshire and is included in the Consultation Statement. and work. In brief, the delivery of the new Guidance is also provided on the land use Peterborough. The Mayor aspires to village would contribute to this agenda by: components and the range and mix of land develop a world class public transport The Consultation Statement also provides uses expected to support a thriving New system which may include a metro, and the a summary of the representations received 1. Delivering a range of new homes to meet Village (See Appendix 1 for the full policy proposed GCP Cambourne to Cambridge during the public consultation and how the housing needs; and supporting text). route has the potential to be part of this Council has taken them into consideration network. in finalising the SPD for adoption. 2. Providing a well-designed, sustainable This SPD cannot create new policy but place that is well connected; expands upon Policy SS/7 to provide Caldecote Village Design Guide additional guidance for the development of Supplementary Planning Document 3. Providing economic opportunities (new the site. Figure 4 | Community Stakeholder Engagement jobs and connection to existing jobs); The Caldecote Village Design Guide Event It follows that the SPD is not a standalone covers the lands immediately east and 4. Providing new and enhanced facilities document and must be read in conjunction south east of Bourn Airfield, therefore, any and infrastructure for existing and new with the ‘parent’ policy (Policy SS/7) proposal should consider the guide to help communities; and other policies in the Development achieve wider aspirations of neighbouring Plan, including the Cambridgeshire settlements. One of the key design priorities 5. Prioritising sustainable modes of and Peterborough Minerals and Waste outlined is to ensure that the relationship transport and movement; Development Framework, the NPPF and with the new settlement at Bourn Airfield other national policy guidance. is positive and allows good off-road 6. Bringing previously developed land back connections whilst maintaining distinct into use; and Transport strategy for Cambridge and South settlements. The importance of good quality Cambridgeshire pedestrian and cyclist connections to Bourn 7. Managing and enhancing the natural and Airfield are also important, with proposed historic environment. There is an emphasis on achieving a connections outlined in the Connections comprehensive sustainable movement Map (Figure 11, page 15). Furthermore, The NPPF also recognises the positive framework within the new development and the need to ensure appropriate edges role that large-scale developments can beyond, in accordance with the Transport are provided to preserve the character of play in delivering sustainable places Strategy for Cambridge and South Caldecote are set out, which is directly of and inclusive communities. The NPPF is Cambridgeshire4. This means prioritising relevance for any proposals.

References 1 - National Planning Policy Framework (February 2019), available at: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/ References system/uploads/attachment_data/file/779764/NPPF_Feb_2019_web.pdf 4 - Transport Strategy for Cambridge and South Cambridge (April 2014), available at: https://www.scambs.gov.uk/media/11028/ transport-strategy-for-cambridge-and-south-cambridgeshire.pdf 2 - Planning Practice Guidance, available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/planning-practice-guidance 3 - South Cambridgeshire Local Plan (September 2018), available at: www.scambs.gov.uk/localplan2018 5 - Greater Cambridge Partnership, website: https://www.greatercambridge.org.uk/

8 9 2 Site Context

2.1 The site and its Location The site comprises a former World War Two (WWII) airfield, adjoining agricultural land The site is located approximately 11km west and a partially occupied employment site. of Cambridge City Centre, bounded by Existing uses of the former airfield include the A428 and St Neots Road to the north facilities for light aircraft by Rural Flying and Broadway to the west. The site sits Club (RFC), storage of tower cranes and beyond the Cambridge Green Belt close to shipping containers, and as the location the new settlement of Cambourne, and in for Bourn Market which takes place four close proximity to a number of established times a year. The site includes a number of settlements within open countryside: existing private properties with access from Highfields Caldecote immediately to the Broadway including Grange Farm. the east, Knapwell village to the north, Cambourne to the west, and Bourn to the The total site area is 282ha, of which south-west. 171.2ha comprises the ‘Major Development Site’ (MDS) identified by policy SS/7, Cambourne is one of South forming the extent of the site that will Cambridgeshire’s newest settlements, accommodate the built development of the located directly to the west of the site. New village (see Figure 2, on page 3). homes are currently being built at Upper Cambourne and further homes have been proposed / approved to the west of Lower Cambourne.

Figure 5 | Location of Bourn Airfield in relation to surrounding settlements

10 11 2.2 Ownership 2.3 Site features and Surrounding context Figure 7 | Site features and surrounding context Much of the airfield site is owned and managed by the Taylor family who currently The site is dominated by the three runways Figure 7 | Site features and surrounding context farm the surrounding land. Countryside associated with the former airfield use. Part Properties have an interest in the site and of the runway is used for flying light aircraft (with the Taylor family) now control most of by the RFC flying club with associated the allocated site. facilities located on the site.

The employment area in the north east of An established employment area is sited the site (approx. 10 ha) is owned by two within the north-eastern corner of the 1 separate land owners (D B Group and site, accessed via Wellington Way. The 2 4 Diageo Pension Fund) who have indicated operations and processes which take place

3 10 Site Context they wish to continue employment-led on the DB Group site include the following: 5 6 operations on the land (figure 6). Highways 11 9 England own land adjacent to the site, • Sand grading - filtering sand to provide 8 14 associated with the construction of the different levels of fineness; 12 12 7 A428, which may be required to form access points. The SPD process has • Production of additives used in concrete included engagement with all of these mixes - blending of powders from silo 17 18 parties. storage; 16 15 Some parts of the site are in other private • Warehousing - receipt and dispatch of 12 ownership. These areas fall outside of the goods either manufactured or purchased Major Development Site and will not be off site for resale.

developed. 19 The blending and grading process undertaken on site generates external noise, particularly in respect of the 20 Figure 6 | Site ownership extraction system used to reduce material spillage and particles in the air. The site is also serviced by an average of 2 incoming and 3 outgoing HGV movements a day.

Existing farm buildings associated with the Grange are located in the south western corner of the site, and include a farmhouse and a grade II listed pair of 18th century 21 barns. The grade II listed Great Common Farmhouse is located on the Broadway, opposite and outside the site. 1 Cambourne Business Park 11 Diageo site 2 Cambridge Belfry Hotel 12 Airfield approaches A number of other residential and 3 Cambourne Village Centre and Supermarket 13 Cambourne Nature Reserves / Country Park commercial properties are located within the site adjacent to Broadway, which are 4 Cambourne Fitness & Sports Centre 14 Great Common Farmhouse excluded from the Major Development Site. 5 Jeavons Wood Primary School 15 The Grange farmhouse and barns 6 Communications mast 16 RFC Flying Club 7 The Vine Primary School 17 Woodland 8 Co-op supermarket 18 Caldecote Primary School 9 Runways 19 Water Treatment Plant 10 D B Group site 20 Bourn Windmill 21 St Helena and St Mary’s Church

Bourn Airfield New Village | A Spatial Framework & Infrastructure Delivery Plan | Adopted 2019 13 12 13 2.4 Access, Movement & Public Transport The SPD does not explore a direct, grade The Strategic Road Network and Delivery Connectivity separated access to the A428 from the new of Sustainable Development’, sets out The local area is served by several bus village. Extensive transport modelling was that a need must be established with no Active Travel (Cycling, walking and horse services, with existing stops in surrounding undertaken to support the preparation of alternative solutions for the development riding) villages. The Citi 4 bus route provides the Local Plan, taking into consideration of a new junction. In addition, in line an express service from Cambourne to all planned development. It did not identify with current design standards, Highways A high proportion of trips in Cambridgeshire Cambridge and the 18 service serves Bourn. a need for a new junction but did identify England have outlined there is marginal are made by bicycle compared to the rest A high-quality public transport route linking a need for a dedicated high quality public room for a new junction and junctions of the UK, however only 2-5% of work trips Cambourne to Cambridge is being planned transport route to link with jobs and which are spaced too closely, creating are made by cycle within the wards directly with the route passing through the northern services in and around Cambridge. The unnecessary weaving with traffic changing surrounding the site. The site is currently part of the site. overarching vision for the adopted Local lanes raising greater safety risks and poorly connected for long distance cycling, Plan, including for the new settlements, is increased congestion. with no national cycle route designations There is currently no railway service to secure a modal shift away from use of in the area. The site is approximately a 40 within this area, the nearest stations being the private car. The Inspectors examining minutes cycle ride from central Cambridge at St Neots and Cambridge North. The the Local Plan found this approach ‘sound’. however the route is not completely traffic- Cambourne to Cambridge high quality Highways England Policy ‘Circular 20/2013 free and is largely along St Neots Road. public transport route will connect to The part of the route from Hardwick to Cambridge North station, and ultimately Cambridge is off-road. However, the serve St Neots station in the longer term. Greater Cambridge Partnership intend to Consultation closed in spring 2019 in Figure 8 | Access, Movement & Connectivity include cycling and pedestrian facilities respect of potential route options for the within their Cambourne to Cambridge Better Bedford to Cambridge section of the East Public Transport Project. West Rail connection between Oxford and Cambridge, two of which could include Pedestrian and cycle movement from a station at Cambourne. If a new station and across the site is further restricted is proposed at Cambourne it would be by physical and perceived barriers such accessible to Bourn Airfield residents via as enclosed private land, which interrupt the high quality public transport service and the connectivity of Public Rights of an extensive network of cycle and walking Way (PRoWs) and footpaths within the routes. surrounding countryside. Road Cambourne, however, features an extensive network of cycleways and footpaths, with St Neots Road, Broadway, Highfields several connections to the Broadway and Road and Knapwell High Street form the other villages in the wider area, such as main local road network, connecting to Caxton and Elsworth. The existing PRoWs neighbouring villages, linking to the A428 present an opportunity to create stronger and A14, providing potential access to site. linkages with Cambourne (via PRoW 279/3) There are multiple existing access points and to a lesser degree Highfields Caldecote serving existing properties and from the (via PRoW 26/15). roundabout in the north-eastern corner of the site, via Wellington Way. There is no A bridleway passes close to the southern direct vehicle route between the site and boundary of the site, providing a route Cambourne, immediately to the west. between Highfields Caldecote and Bourn village, and onwards to surrounding The A428 forms the main route into countryside. Again, there is an opportunity Cambridge and provides connections to the to link and extend existing bridleways to A14/A1 and the M11 via the A1303. Junctions create more extensive and permeable for providing access to the A428 are located all non-motorised users throughout the site 2km to the east and west of the site. The and surrounding areas. road was substantially upgraded to a dual carriageway in 2008. Further work is due to take place between Black Cat and Caxton Gibbet to the west of Cambourne.

14 15 2.5 Landscape, Ecology & Water Hill Plantation in the south-eastern Views & vistas corner; The site has an undulating topography, The site slopes away gently towards the Figure 9 | The runways and employment site falling gently into the valley created by the • Mature hedgerow trees alongside the south, allowing extensive views over the small watercourse which runs north-to- watercourse from Bucket Hill Plantation surrounding countryside. Horizons are often south through the middle of the site. The and the bridleway in the south; distant, but most are wooded with key views land slopes away gently towards the south. to the south and into the site. • Blocks of woodland, groups of trees, and The character of much of the site has been specimen trees surround the Grange in The fields which slope away to the south of determined by the former airfield use, the south-western corner; and the woodland are more sensitive to external and consequently there is little natural or views. The design and layout of the site will planted vegetation within its heart. The site • A hedgerow on the western boundary need to consider the visual impacts of the is dominated by the three hard surfaced with Broadway, opposite Great Common existing employment site and views from runways which cross and subdivide the Farm. surrounding properties, public routes and field parcels. These runways continue to main roads. influence the wider landscape by virtue of The surrounding area includes large-scale gaps in the treeline to the south made to geometric fields with the occasional more There are three Registered Parks and facilitate the approach to the airfield by organic edges due to a natural boundary, Gardens located within the vicinity of the aircraft in World War Two (WWII). such as a watercourse. site at Childerley Hall to the north, Bourn Hall to the south west and Longstowe Hall Figure 10 | Western boundary The northern edge of the site includes There is one formally designated ecological further to the west. There is no identified notable embankments particularly where site within the SPD area. The Bucket inter visibility between these sites and the Broadway and St Neots Road cross over Hill Plantation Grassland County Wildlife proposed new village, however additional the A428. The site falls entirely within the Site (CWS), a semi-improved grassland, assessment of visual impact should be Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Claylands is located directly to the north of Bucket considered in detail through future planning landscape character area as identified by Hill Plantation and adjoining the south of applications. Natural England. This character is defined the Major Development Site boundary. as a broad, gently undulating, lowland This appears not to have been managed plateau dissected by shallow river valleys and is currently somewhat overgrown and with large-scale arable farmland. and development will need to protect and enhance this habitat and include plans for Boundaries include some mature, but its long-term management. overgrown hedgerows (common species are hawthorn, blackberry & elder) with an There are seven Sites of Special Scientific occasional mature hedgerow tree (often Interest within 5km of the site boundary common oak). One significant stand of (including Overhall Grove SSSI and Ancient mature deciduous woodland exists on the Woodland at Knapwell), one of which south-eastern corner of the site (Bucket is also designated as a Special Area of Figure 11 | Woodland track Hill Plantation), with three densely wooded Conservation (SAC). hedgerows extending north and west from it. A smaller stand of deciduous woodland Any application for development must surrounds the Grange and air traffic consider any direct and indirect impacts control buildings on the western edge of on habitats within the site and beyond the site. Significant stands of trees which including nearby designated sites, for are protected by Tree Preservation Orders example in terms of lighting and the (TPOs) and/or have been graded as appropriate level of public access. There Category A trees (trees of high quality and is a particular opportunity to provide value) include: enhancements through new and reinforced woodland planting around the edges of the • Site boundaries from the boundary site. of the industrial site with Highfields Caldecote in the east through to Bucket

16 17 2.6 Flood Risk 2.7 Townscape & Built Environment The site falls entirely within Flood Zone 1, Figure 13 | The watercourse Figure 14 | Cambourne from above indicating a low probability of a river flood The surrounding area has a mixed event (<1 in 1000 annual probability). townscape character with several established villages located nearby. The site is within the Bourn Brook Buildings in surrounding villages are catchment area, with the main channel of typically 1 and 2 storeys in height (8-9m to the Brook about 2km to the south. However, ridge). there is a tributary channel within the site, which connects to the Brook. It is The site contains two Grade II listed barns known that there have been flood events dating from the 18th century which form associated with the Bourn Brook further part of The Grange Farm buildings. The downstream and any development will need main house at The Grange dates from the to ensure the provision, management and 19th century, and whilst it is of distinctive maintenance of a sustainable drainage historic character, it is not listed or directly scheme designed to mitigate the risk of associated with the listed barns. flooding beyond the site boundaries. The existing runway and other elements Some areas of localised potential for associated form part of the legacy of the surface water flooding within the site have RAF Bourn Airfield, which is associated Figure 15 | Highfields Caldecote Figure 16 | Bourn been identified, associated with low lying with the Battle of Britain. However, the areas of land but it is concluded that these site is undesignated, and few structures can be incorporated into the blue or green associated with the airfield remain. There infrastructure requirements for the site. are two extant gaps in the hedgerows on the edges of the site to the south and the west which were used to guide pilots to the runways during WWII. It will therefore be important to consider the relationship of the existing historic context when considering Figure 12 | Flood Zone Map sight lines within and from outside the site to facilitate good legibility and wayfinding.

The surrounding area has a mixed townscape character with several villages located nearby. In particular, Conservation Areas are located in Bourn village to the south and Knapwell village to the north. Figure 17 | Cambourne Figure 18 | Listed 18th century barns Bourn is a historic rural settlement with a distinctive and attractive townscape character.

Key buildings in the surrounding area include the church of St Helena & St Mary at Bourn, Bourn Windmill, and numerous notable large houses. Any proposal must ensure sensitive heritage assets are considered and mitigation is provided where necessary to avoid any significant affects.

18 19 Cambourne has a modern suburban to access. The new settlement should Sports and leisure facilities Faith townscape character typical of 21st century provide complementary facilities to serve its residential development, with some variety residents rather than competing and should There is an existing leisure centre at There are several churches in the across the three Cambourne villages. The help to support the wider existing offer. Cambourne which provides a fitness suite, surrounding areas of the site: Cambourne layout is based on a series of primary exercise studios, sports hall and 5-aside Church Centre, Peacehaven Baptist Church streets which feed a variety of cul-de-sacs. Retail facilities pitch facilities, in addition to Cambourne (Cambourne), Church of St Helena & St Housing is typically two or three storeys. Sports Pavilion. Caldecote Sports Pavilion Mary (Bourn) and Caldecote Church. Materials used are typically red and buff Bourn village High Street and Highfields provides outdoor play facilities, courts and brick, cream render and pitched roofs. Caldecote consist largely of residential fields, with Caldecote F.C. in the village Health Cambourne also includes some four storey development, with limited retail, food and also. There are sports facilities, including a buildings and more substantial commercial drink options. Cambourne hosts a few football pitch, cricket pitch, skate ramp and There are three doctors’ surgeries in buildings, including the Belfry hotel and a cafes, restaurants and public houses, in tennis courts at the Hardwick Recreation the surrounding area: Monkfield Medical large supermarket building. addition to convenience retail offerings, Ground. Practice in Cambourne, Bourn Surgery and including a supermarket. There is a small Comberton Surgery. A dental surgery and Bourn has a distinctive and attractive convenience store in Hardwick, over 6km The village of Bourn contains a sports field pharmacy are located in Cambourne. The townscape character associated with its east of Bourn Airfield. Cambridge city and park and Bourn Golf Club is located nearest NHS hospital, Addenbrooke’s is historic development as a rural settlement. centre represents the nearest location for almost 3km south of the site. There are located in Cambridge, 16km away. This includes traditional cottages built from higher order comparison retail. several areas for informal recreation in the a range of materials and includes distinctive vicinity, including Cambourne Country Park, Emergency and Civic Services thatched roofs. Community Facilities Eco Park and Nature Reserve. The closest police and fire service are Highfields Caldecote, is a linear Several venues in the vicinity provide In addition, Cambridge provides a further based in Cambourne. The offices of SCDC development located to the east along community meeting space: The Hub array of facilities for sports and leisure, are in Cambourne and many Parish and Highfields Road which historically consisted (Cambourne Community Centre), Bourn including those managed by the University Town Councils exist in the wider vicinity. primarily of large modern bungalows set Village Hall, The Blue School in Cambourne of Cambridge on the western edge of back from the street, which contributes to a (hall and three classrooms are available to the city, which are available for hire by limited townscape distinctiveness. However, hire for community use), Cambourne Soul members of the University and wider after recent developments the village (primarily for youth) and Caldecote Village community. now contains a significant number of two Hall. There are post offices located in storey properties so has a somewhat mixed Bourn, Toft and Hardwick. Figure 19 | Surrounding Facilities and Services character. Education St Helena & St Mary’s Church in Bourn is a notable landmark with its spire around Early years provision is provided for 25m in height. Other key buildings in the through the private and community sectors surrounding area include Bourn Windmill, in the surrounding local villages. Primary and numerous notable large houses. education is met through The Vine Inter- Church Primary School, Jeavons Wood Great Common Farmhouse, a late 16th/ Primary School, Monkfield Park Primary early 17th century farmhouse located to the School and the Hardwick and Cambourne west of Broadway adjacent to the site, is Community Primary School in Cambourne, grade II listed. Caldecote Primary School, Bourn C of E Primary School and Hardwick Community Primary School. Cambourne Village College 2.8 Community Facilities and is approximately 5.6km by road and 3.5km Services by bike, from the site and Comberton Village College is about 8km. Both Village As Bourn Airfield is situated within close Colleges are operating at full capacity. proximity of the existing settlements of There are no special schools within the Cambourne, Highfields Caldecote and immediate vicinity of the site, however, Bourn, there are established community Gretton School is located 13.5km to the facilities and services in the surrounding north east. areas which new residents would be able

20 21 2.9 Opportunities and Constraints

The contextual analysis reveals a broad range of potential opportunities and constraints which will help to shape future development proposals.

Figure 20 | Key Opportunities Figure 21 | Key Constraints

Water treatment plant

Existing footpaths and Public Rights of Way Potential connections and relationships with Pollution, odour and noise from surrounding Existing mature woodland and field boundaries (PRoWs shown in bold) surrounding areas and land-uses infrastructure. County Wildlife Site (Bucket Hill Plantation Existing bridleways Existing mature woodland and vegetation Listed Buildings (Grade II) within and close to Grassland) the site Potential High Quality Public Transport Strategic Landscape Area Sensitive Relationship with existing corridor access points Protected access points for potential High employment uses Views out to countryside to south Quality Public Transport corridor Potential green corridor associated with main Potential visual impact on surrounding views north-south runway Existing buildings associated with former site Southern limit of Major Development Site uses Potential green corridors associated with (MDS) defined by Policy SS/7 other runways Existing tarmac runway. Strategic Landscape Area Existing watercourses 22 23 3 Vision & Objectives

3.1 Overview

A vision has been set out which reflects the long term aspirations for the type of place which will be created at Bourn Airfield.

The vision is supported by six key strategic objectives which set out how the vision will be achieved.

The vision and objectives have been subject to discussion with community representatives in context of the adopted Local Plan and are consistent with the adopted policy.

They have also been informed by discussions with site promoters, landowners, and other key stakeholders, as well as taking consideration of feedback received on the emerging proposals when reviewed by the Cambridgeshire Quality Panel.

24 25 A Vision for Bourn Airfield New Village Strategic Objectives 1 - A Well Connected Place Facilitating sustainable movement within the site and to and Bourn Airfield will be a distinct new South from surrounding villages, shaped around a network of traffic- free active travel routes, integrated public transport, and Cambridgeshire village acknowledging its historic delivering excellent connections along the A428 corridor to St Neots and Cambridge via a new high-quality public transport past but with its own contemporary identity. A route. diverse, yet integrated community, with a range of facilities and services to complement, not compete 2 - Vibrant, Prosperous and Inclusive Providing a range of housing types and tenures to meet the with, existing local provision. Well connected to local housing needs (including for low cost and affordable the wider area by high quality public transport and housing) and aspirations of a broad and diverse community. Meeting the educational needs of its community, with a village providing employment and homes to support the centre integrating a range of community facilities alongside convenient and independent retail, with opportunities for local Greater Cambridge economy. The village will have a employment and entrepreneurship within the site. vibrant and strong heart, supporting healthy, active and inclusive community lifestyles and providing 3 - Healthy, Active and Resilient a high quality of life for its residents in a beautiful Providing for the wellbeing of residents as an integral aspect of the village’s fabric. Encouraging walking and cycling as a contemporary landscape setting. part of daily life, offering opportunities for physical recreation and social interaction for all, and supporting access to fresh and healthy food choices. Designing spaces that encourage The village will be embedded in a network of multi- social interaction for all and supporting the residents to functional green infrastructure, which is accessible connect and form their own community. and sustainable, being integrated with the natural environment. Supporting walking, cycling and public 4 - Locally Distinctive Responding to the existing context of the site and the transport as the preferred mode of choice for travel inherited assets of the airfield and its landscape, whilst delivering a bespoke and modern built environment which for people within the new village and beyond, and includes high quality public spaces and unique and locally facilitating a move towards net zero carbon lifestyles inspired buildings, including opportunities for custom and self-build. through an innovative approach to planning, design and construction. 5 - Responsive and Sustainable Building in a manner that is responsive to climate change and sensitive to the environment. Delivering enhanced outcomes for biodiversity and hydrology, and incorporating low or net zero carbon buildings, renewable energy and low-emission travel that aim to exceed existing standards within the Local Plan.

6 - Cohesive, Well Planned and Well Governed Considering the lifetime of the village through conception, construction, completion and maturity. Utilising tools such as masterplans and design codes to manage quality, supporting community building, placemaking and community ownership models, and creating community focused governance.

26 27 4 Spatial Framework

4.1 Overview

This section establishes the key spatial elements of the new village, required to deliver the policy expectations and the vision.

The Spatial Framework Diagram establishes the broad structure for development of the new village along with the disposition of key land uses, primary movement and locational fixes. These are consistent with the Local Plan policy requirements, which requires built development to be provided within the Major Development Site.

The framework is supported by a series of guiding principles and structural fixes which are set out in chapter 5, ‘Creating the Place’.

The Spatial Framework Diagram is indicative in that the exact alignment of the routes and the precise location of buildings will be determined through the planning application process.

28 29 4.2 Spatial Framework Diagram

The overarching framework for Bourn Airfield new village is summarised below Figure 22 | Spatial Framework Diagram by theme, and spatially illustrated in the Spatial Framework Diagram opposite.

Land Use Green and Blue Infrastructure

An integrated mix of land uses that will A strong network of multifunctional green accommodate population growth within a (and blue) spaces and corridors will sustainable pattern of development. connect valuable assets, improving local links, biodiversity and deliver hydrological MDS boundary benefits.

Residential Strategic Landscape Area

Mixed Use Green Corridors and open spaces

Employment School Playing fields

Village Centre Outdoor sports facilities

Neighbourhood Hub Retained woodland / vegetation

Secondary School Proposed woodland / vegetation

Primary School Watercourse

Long views

Viewpoints

Movement and Access Historical Connections

An intelligent, multi-modal and integrated Retained site features which help to create transport network prioritising non-motorised a sense of connection with sites previous users will provide safe, sustainable airfield and rural uses. solutions for all. Retained farm and aviation buildings Figure 23 | Summary of structural fixes Strategic walking and cycling corridors A Main points of access and primary street p38 Runway park B Strategic walking and cycling connections p39 Existing footpath network C Cambridge to Cambourne High Quality Public Transport Route p40 Existing bridleway network D Village Centre and Neighbourhood Hub p44 NB. Unshaded areas within the SPD boundary Primary street retained in existing use, including Grange Farm and G Recreational walking, cycling and horse riding routes p52 properties adjacent to Broadway. H Outdoor sports and play facilities p53 Secondary street E Density and Scale p60 The spatial framework diagram is illustrative and High Quality Public Transport corridor should not be used for measuring areas. F Green edges and corridors p61

I Protected biodiversity areas and corridors p69 High Quality Public Transport stops

30 31 5 Creating the Place

5.1 Overview Guiding Principles

This section sets out a series of Guiding principles represent a range overarching guiding principles, which of ideas and concepts which should be explain how the strategic objectives should integrated into the development, but be delivered, and the key spatial fixes which allow a degree of interpretation which are required to deliver them on the and flexibility. Planning applications site where appropriate. should explain how these have been considered in future proposals. The principles and fixes are organised in accordance with the six strategic Spatial ‘Fixes’ development objectives set out in chapter 3, these are: Spatial Fixes represent key elements of place making, such as site 1. A Well Connected Place; infrastructure, which must be delivered as set out in this document. Future 2. Vibrant, Prosperous and Inclusive; planning applications must demonstrate how this has been achieved as part of 3. Healthy, Active and Resilient; future proposals.

4. Locally Distinctive;

5. Responsive and Sustainable; and

6. Cohesive, Well-planned and Well- governed.

Each objective contains a number of subheadings, which provide detail on how the objective can be met. Within these, the guiding principles and spatial fixes are outlined to steer the development.

Local plan policy and other relevant guidance is referenced in this section where appropriate, along with appropriate mechanisms to help ensure they are secured through the planning process. Any reference to standards refer to those that are in place at the time of the publication of the SPD and any successor documents that may be produced.

The Figures contained in this section are indicative and the exact alignment of routes and the precise location of buildings and land uses will be determined through the planning application process.

32 33 1 A Well Connected Place

routes, as set out in Fix A. A fundamental principle of the new village 1B An environment that promotes • High-quality, segregated (traffic-free) will be to provide excellent connectivity • A connected and permeable network of walking and cycling. cycle routes which permeate the and access for residents and visitors, by residential streets which allow a wide development, have a generous width, a range of modes, with an emphasis on range of choices of routes through the Walking and cycling are the preferred are overlooked and are well-lit at night. sustainable, low-carbon / low-emission and site for pedestrians and cyclists. mode of travel within the village and for active modes of travel - walking, cycling local trips beyond. Walking and cycling are • Other pedestrian desirelines and and public transport (Policy TI/2 and SS/7) • A defined network of on and off- sustainable, zero-emission, promote health routes through considerate alignment street walking and cycling routes and & wellbeing, and help to create a more of residential streets and provision of a 1A A street network that integrates bridleways which provide connections vibrant and socially-interactive environment. permeable network of streets. movement and place with the surrounding area, providing People who walk and cycle are more likely access to existing facilities and allowing to make linked local trips and use local • Secure, covered cycle parking in key The street network should provide a legible residents of nearby settlements to easily services, helping increase the viability locations including schools, local hierarchy of streets that forms the basic access the new facilities on the site. of facilities. Cross-site routes should be centres and public transport hubs, and structure of the village for all users and established from an early delivery stage appropriate space for cycle parking in defines the relationship between the new The layout of the street network and design to encourage residents to make active dwellings, potentially including provision village and its neighbours. of streets should have regard to Manual for travel their mode of choice from the outset. for electric bike charging (Policy TI/3). Streets. Typical walking distances of 400m (5 mins) Consideration should also be given to The design of streets should consider and 800m (10 mins) should be used to provision for off-gauge bikes to help their role in the character of the site, help assess whether facilities and public people make the switch from using the incorporating high-quality materials transport stops are within easy walking car to using cycles more. and landscapes, and should create an distance. integrated network which connects with • Safe routes to schools providing traffic open spaces, green corridors and other The new village should provide: free routes, pedestrian and cycle priority movement routes. crossings, and wider footpaths close to • Walkable neighbourhoods which are school entrances. • A realigned junction at the north western permeable, legible and have facilities access point which prioritises vehicles within walking distance. • Connections to the wider walking, entering the site and prevents access Figure 24 | Road-user hierarchy horse-riding and cycling networks, onto the Broadway for southbound traffic • People-friendly streets with a low-design particularly links to Cambourne, Bourn directly from the new village, as per speed, which are integrated with the and Highfields Caldecote and the Policy SS/7. built environment. Routes should be well surrounding rural footpath/bridleway overlooked by buildings which are in use network, in locations identified by Fix B. • Site access points from the surrounding throughout the day and evening. road network which are safe and • Contributions to the enhancement of the convenient for pedestrians and cyclists. • Generously-sized and high-quality surrounding cycle network, including spaces for pedestrians, including potential new routes that link eastward • A Primary Street which forms the spine seating suitable for all age groups, to Cambridge along the A428 corridor. of the site for all users, connecting the in key locations such as the village main site entrances and serves the centre, at public transport stops, close In addition, the development should seek village centre, as set out in Fix A. to community facilities and across the to contribute to the creation of bike-share pedestrian and footpath network. schemes serving the local area. • Secondary streets which provide direct access to other areas of the site and are • Junctions and crossings which give designed to accommodate potential bus priority to pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders including new non- motorised user crossings over Broadway References to provide safe accessibility to 1 - Manual for Streets, DfT / Communities and Local Government (2007), available at: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/ Cambourne. government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/341513/pdfmanforstreets.pdf

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