Quality of Life Programme

GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE STRATEGY

Cambridgeshire Horizons Endurance House Vision Park Histon Cambridge CB4 9ZR www.cambridgeshirehorizons.co.uk Tel:01223 714040 Foreword

Contents Section Page Foreword Foreword 1 1 Introduction 2 2 Environmental Context 4 of the Sub-region The Cambridge Sub-region has an extremely In early 2005, we established a Quality of Life Origin statement ambitious housing target to meet over the programme, which sets high standards for 3 Methodology of Analysis 8 This document is a summary of a report that next ten years.The 2003 Cambridgeshire and housing developments in recognition of the fact of Green Infrastructure Data has been prepared by consultants The Landscape Peterborough Structure Plan makes provision for that quality is important to delivery. Creating Partnership for Cambridgeshire Horizons, 4 Review of Existing Green 10 an additional 47,500 homes to be built between balanced and mixed communities was the subject Cambridgeshire County Council, Cambridge City Infrastructure Provision 1999 and 2016. Many of these homes will be of the first piece of research, and three sub- Council, South Cambridgeshire District Council, provided in new large-scale developments on the regional strategies for green infrastructure, major 5 Towards an integrated Green 14 the Countryside Agency, the Forestry Commission, fringes of Cambridge, some of the market towns sports facilities and arts and culture were also Infrastructure Strategy Cambridge Preservation Society and English Nature. and at the proposed new town at Northstowe. commissioned to set out a long term vision 6 Funding and Implementation 20 for how new facilities will be provided to Cambridgeshire Horizons is a company established Over the next twenty years the Cambridge complement existing provision. by the Cambridgeshire Local Authorities to drive 7 Next Steps 24 Sub-region is expected to grow in population forward the delivery of the growth strategy for by approximately 130,000 people from its I am delighted that this work has now been 8 Appendices 28 the Cambridge Sub-region. current population of 425,000. One of the completed and hope you will agree with me greatest challenges we face as a consequence that the Strategy for Green Infrastructure A Steering Group drawn from all the above is ensuring that quality of life for existing and summarised in this report sets out an exciting sponsoring bodies as well as Huntingdonshire new communities in the area is improved. and realistic vision for using planned District Council and East Cambridgeshire District The key to achieving this is to enhance existing development to enhance and extend our Council oversaw the preparation of the report. infrastructure, including Green Infrastructure, network of large scale green spaces, protected to support the scale of growth proposed. sites, nature reserves and greenway linkages. I am particularly grateful to all the organisations and agencies who contributed to this strategy and look forward to working with them in the future on taking forward its recommendations.

Sir David Trippier Chairman Cambridgeshire Horizons

Cover image courtesy of FC Green Infrastructure Strategy 1 Introduction Introduction

1. Introduction

What is Green Infrastructure? 1.1 1.5 Project, the 50–year biodiversity vision map 1.11 produced by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough The objective of the study is to draw up a The provision of Green Infrastructure has been Biodiversity Partnership and the Cambridgeshire This study takes the definition of Green bold and imaginative strategy for the provision identified as a key priority for the successful Rights of Way Improvement Plan provide valuable Infrastructure used by the Town and Country ‘All nature has a feeling: woods, fields, brooks of large-scale Green Infrastructure for the implementation of the growth agenda, and a background to the development of the Strategy. Planning Association in their publication Cambridge Sub-region over the next 20 years Green Infrastructure Forum was established Biodiversity by Design which states:- Are life eternal: and in silence they to complement and support the significant by Cambridgeshire Horizons and Cambridgeshire growth in housing provision that is planned over County Council during 2004, which included Project Brief “Green Infrastructure is defined as the Sub-regional Speak happiness beyond the reach of books; network of protected sites, nature reserves, greenspaces this period.The strategy seeks to both promote representatives from all the local authorities, 1.9 There’s nothing mortal in them; their decay a range of new creative initiatives while also relevant national and regional agencies and and greenway linkages. Green Infrastructure should embracing and developing the strategic open active local amenity/biodiversity societies and The project brief set out the requirements provide (where possible) multi-functional uses, i.e, Is the green life of change; to pass away space proposals currently being promoted by organisations, to develop projects which could of the study as follows:- wildlife, recreational and cultural experience, as a variety of agencies across the sub-region. be submitted for funding from the Government’s well as delivering ecological services, such as flood • To bring together existing data on Green And come again in blooms revivified.’ Growth Area Fund. protection and microclimate control. It should also Infrastructure sites, and map out existing From ‘All Nature has feeling’ by John Clare (1793–1864) 1.2 greenspace provision. operate at all spatial scales from urban centres 1.6 through to open countryside” The Strategy has been put together in two • To identify future greenspace needs of the growing population, looking forward documents; a full Technical Report which is The ‘Cambridge Sub-region’ is the planning at least twenty years. 1.12 available from Cambridgeshire Horizons and this sub-region as defined in the Cambridgeshire and report which is a summary version concentrating Peterborough Structure Plan 2003, i.e. the City • To identify opportunities for Green Well-designed and integrated Green on the background analysis and the key findings. of Cambridge and the surrounding ring of market Infrastructure within and adjacent to major Infrastructure improves environmental quality, towns that fall within Cambridgeshire: Ely, development sites, embracing and developing health and well-being, sense of community and St. Neots, Huntingdon, St.Ives and Chatteris, and the work being carried out by the local provides an opportunity for exercise, sport and Background to Growth planning authorities through their Local the villages within this ring. It is envisaged that informal recreation. In the context of the study Development Frameworks. 1.3 the Green Infrastructure Strategy for the area for this report, Green Infrastructure should Cambridge Sub-region should knit into the • To carry out a general analysis on the therefore contribute to and enhance the quality Over the next twenty years the Cambridge Green Infrastructure strategies being prepared wider Cambridge Sub-region identifying of life of both present and future residents and Sub-region is expected to grow in population for adjoining sub-regions, for instance the opportunities and future projects building visitors through: by approximately 130,000 people from its Peterborough Green Grid. As a result, on the W.S.Atkins report of 2004. current population of 425,000.This increase in acknowledgement of the strategic greenspaces • Providing a focus and attraction for the • To develop the analysis into a bold and increased population proposed within population can be seen as either an opportunity that fall within those parts of the wider imaginative strategy, which builds upon the Cambridge Sub-region and the wider or a threat to the quality of life enjoyed by economic sub-region that lie adjacent to but current and future initiatives and identifies London-Stansted-Cambridge-Peterborough existing communities – much will depend on outside of the Cambridge Sub-region e.g. key issues, including those relating to Growth Area the extent to which the existing infrastructure, Newmarket Heath and Therfield Heath has biodiversity, landscape and rights of way. including Green Infrastructure, can be enhanced been taken into account. • Providing further greenspace and wider to support the scale of growth proposed. • To propose an implementation strategy access to the countryside and a framework for the longer-term 1.7 management and maintenance of any • Protecting and enhancing existing 1.4 future assets created. biodiversity and creating new areas The Green Infrastructure Strategy is one of for biodiversity A number of major new developments are three studies commissioned by Cambridgeshire • Reversing the fragmentation of habitats by proposed as part of the Cambridge Sub-regional 1.10 Horizons as part of its Quality of Life Programme. restoring the connectivity between them growth strategy in the adopted Cambridgeshire The two other ‘sister’ strategies are on Arts It is envisaged that the Green Infrastructure and Peterborough Structure Plan 2003: including • Providing the opportunity to rehabilitate and Culture and Major Sports Facilities. Strategy will provide Cambridgeshire Horizons a new town of 8,000 homes at Northstowe landscapes and habitats damaged by and its partners with the long term vision and to the north west of Cambridge, a new urban previous development, agriculture or structure required to direct the development quarter on the east side of Cambridge that could Green Infrastructure Background by existing recreational pressures of individual bids and projects to deliver the accommodate up to 12,000 new homes and two • Providing an enhanced environmental 1.8 component parts of the proposed Green urban fringe development sites located to the backdrop that will assist in attracting Infrastructure Network over the next 20–30 north west and south of Cambridge, which business and inward investment to The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Structure years.The study identifies general deficiencies will deliver approximately 6,500 new homes those areas Plan includes policies for creating new Green and makes specific recommendations to between them. Significant new developments are Infrastructure and enhancing the existing inform Local Development Documents and • Providing built development that is also planned on the fringes of the sub-region’s landscape. In line with the greenspace policies other relevant local strategies prepared by sustainable in terms of its location, design, market towns, and particularly Huntingdon, set out in the Structure Plan, Cambridgeshire the Local Authorities. materials and whole life costs St. Neots, and Ely.All these developments will County Council commissioned an audit of the • Providing a basis for a sustainable bring opportunities to enhance the adjoining Strategic Open Space in the County by W.S. urban ecology. Green Infrastructure, which could link into a Atkins in 2004.A number of other studies, strategic network of greenspaces. such as the East of England Biodiversity Mapping

2 Green Infrastructure Strategy Image courtesy of FC Green Infrastructure Strategy 3 Environmental context of the Sub-region Environmental context of the Sub-region

2. Environmental Context of the Sub-region Plan and Landscape character areas © Crown copyright.All rights reserved 100023205 2006 Landscape Character 2.1 Chatteris Ramsey Sawtry The Cambridge Sub-region does not include Ely any statutorily designated landscapes, (National Parks or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty). However, it contains many distinctive landscapes. Mildenhall Soham The ‘Cambridgeshire Landscape Guidelines’ (1991) Huntingdon St Ives identified nine character areas, five of which are located in the Cambridge Sub-region as follows:- Cottenham Burwell • South-east Clay Hills Newmarket • Chalklands KEY St Neots Cambridge • Western Claylands Cambridge Planning Sub-region

• Ouse Valley Settlements Over 5000 • Fenlands Rivers CAMBRIDGESHIRE LANDSCAPE Sandy Sawston CHARACTER AREAS Cambridge 2.2 Haverhill Chalklands Biggleswade Claylands Cambridge is centrally located in the sub-region Royston Fenlands and at the junction of three main landscape Saffron Walden River Valleys 01.25 2.5 5 7.5 10 types.To the north east the Fens, to the south Kilometres east the Chalklands and to the west the Claylands.The type of Green Infrastructure 2.4 2.6 improvements proposed within the Strategy should always build on this variation in local With much of the land within the Fens at or The historic setting of Listed Buildings, landscape character by enhancing local diversity below sea level, water management and flood Scheduled Ancient Monuments and Registered and distinctiveness e.g. by strengthening the control are critical issues.The Fens contain Parks and Gardens provide opportunities to existing patterns of woodlands to the southwest, extensive areas within the Environment Agency focus visitor-based activity and connections to or by restoring and creating meadows and wet Flood Zones with many of the waterways and the wider Green Infrastructure network. Major woodland along the Ouse Valley. In the same drainage channels embanked to protect the attractions such as Wimpole Hall, Home Farm way new built development should reflect the surrounding landscape. Locally controlled and Park,Anglesey Abbey and Gardens and underlying landscape character.The majority seasonal flooding takes place e.g. in the Ouse Denny Abbey have the potential to develop of the proposed development will take place in Washes.With the potential of increased run-off further as nodes within the access network urban fringe locations and it is important that from additional development within the Growth and support increased sustainable recreational the character of these often threatened and Area there is an increasing need to make opportunities.A number of the existing parks undervalued landscapes is fully assessed and provision for additional seasonal and potentially and gardens to the west of Cambridge on the developed to deliver an enhanced and multi- permanent flooding.These requirements can claylands and on the chalk landscapes to the functional landscape. create opportunities to enhance the landscape south east remain in private ownership. and biodiversity value.The Internal Drainage Boards also have a vital role to play in the The Water Environment 2.7 management of the multitude of drainage 2.3 channels and ditches in the area. There is a variable distribution of Scheduled Ancient Monuments across the County. However, The landscape of Cambridgeshire, and in there is a noticeable cluster of sites to the south particular the Fens, is significantly influenced Historic Landscape Environment of Cambridge on the Chalk landscapes, which by the character of the natural and artificial 2.5 were historically favoured for early settlement drainage patterns. In the south of the sub-region and human activity.The Cambridgeshire Historic The County has a diverse and distinctive built there are a number of important chalk fed Environment Record records over 10,000 heritage within its cities, towns, villages and streams while in the north there are navigable monuments, findspots, historic buildings, parks historic buildings.The architectural quality waterways including the River Ouse and parts and garden features within the sub-region. of many buildings within Cambridge, both of the Cam.The Fens also contain distinctive Whilst many of these are hidden from view traditional and modern, is of a notable standard man-made ‘Lodes’ that provide access by boat or require interpretation, they represent a large at both the national and international level. e.g. Bulbeck Lode near Wicken Fen and number of locally important sites and features In locations such as the Cambridge Backs, Monk’s Lode at Great Fen. which enrich the local landscapes and are a the interplay between the historic University major asset in promoting informal recreation Colleges’ mix of formal and informal open and the enjoyment of greenspace, especially spaces create some of the County’s best loved in the urban fringe. environmental assets.

4 Green Infrastructure Strategy Green Infrastructure Strategy 5 Environmental context of the Sub-region Environmental context of the Sub-region

Environmental Context of the Sub-region

Biodiversity Access and Informal Recreation Strategic Built Development Strategic Transport Development 2.8 2.12 2.16 2.18 2.19

There are a number of important wildlife habitats A well-developed Rights of Way network is In response to the Countryside Rights of Way New settlements/major urban extensions represent There are a number of proposed key transport within the Cambridge Sub-region. However, one essential in providing access to the countryside Act 2000 (CROW) the County Council has a key driver in the development of the Green schemes within the sub-region including: of the main features in biodiversity terms is the for local and visiting populations.These should produced The Cambridgeshire Rights of Way Infrastructure network opportunities.The main • Guided Busway – West. Following the extent of fragmentation of this resource.This is also be well connected to the sites of accessible Improvement Plan.The Statement of Action in development sites in the sub-region include: line of the disused railway from north in no small measure due to the importance of Green Infrastructure to maximise the sustainable the plan prioritises the work the County Council • Northstowe – new town Cambridge to St. Ives and then to agriculture in rural areas, and in particular the enjoyment of resources for quiet recreation. It is proposes to undertake to secure an improved Huntingdon. process of intensification of farming practices envisaged that wherever possible access corridors network of local Rights of Way and access • Cambridge East (Airport site) • Guided Busway – South.To the south of over the last 100 years which has reduced the also double as biodiversity corridors and vice opportunities.There are 8 Guiding Principles • Land between Huntingdon Road Cambridge following the line of the disused number and network of habitats present.The versa, subject to the sensitivity of the habitat. arising from the Statement of Action most of which and Histon Road (NIAB site) main exception to this pattern is along the river are also directly relevant to the development of railway from the station to Trumpington. • Land between Madingley Road and corridors, most notably the Ouse, which serves the Green Infrastructure Strategy. • A14 Improvements Ellington to Fen Ditton. 2.13 Huntingdon Road (North West Cambridge) as a focus for some of the most significant • Transport interchange – Chesterton • Northern Fringe of Cambridge protected sites. The County Council has developed a number of Station. Serving the Science Park and Climate Change (Arbury Park & Chesterton sidings site) ‘published’ strategic routes including: Pathfinder the north of Cambridge. 2.17 2.9 Way, Harcamlow Way, Fen Rivers Way, Hereward • Southern Fringe of Cambridge – Way. Some of these routes extend into adjacent Monsanto site (Cam Valley) Climate change has the potential to cause many Policy Context Cambridgeshire has the lowest percentage of counties following important biodiversity or effects on the landscape.Within Cambridgeshire • Southern Fringe of Cambridge – woodland cover of any rural county in England, historical features, e.g. the Icknield Way and the 2.20 key issues include: East of Trumpington & Addenbrooke’s with just 3.6% of the land area, compared to Ouse Valley Way. In addition to these strategic • Land North West of Spittals Way & 9.5% for neighbouring Hertfordshire.The routes there is an extensive network of local • The impact of rising sea levels on the There is wide range of strategy documents Ermine Street, Great Stukeley, Huntingdon majority of the woodland present is located rights of way.A number of Sustrans routes which Fenland landscapes and the scope for and policies from the national to local level that on the claylands to the west and south east include a number of minor roads as well as additional seasonal/permanent flooding • Land North of Cambridge Road, St. Neots provide a framework for the development of of the county. bridleways and cycleways, form part of a national and the release of arable/cropping land to (East of Railway line) the Green Infrastructure Strategy.These are network for long-distance cycle connections. form flood meadows and wet woodland. listed in the bibliography found after the Adventurer’s Fen at Wicken Fen is already Appendices. 2.10 designated as a flood alleviation area in 2.14 case of high water levels in the River The key internationally protected sites in the Image courtesy of Cambridgeshire County Council Cam and Lodes. sub-region include the Ouse Washes,Wicken The sub-region contains a number of sites of Fen, Eversden and Wimpole Woods and Devils accessible land including: National and Local • The impact of reduced rainfall in the Image courtesy of NTPL/Paul Harris Dyke.There are 138 Sites of Special Scientific Nature Reserves, Country Parks, Common context of rising demand from an Interest in Cambridgeshire, which cover some Land,Access Land, Pocket Parks and accessible expanding population. Reduced rainfall 2.7% of the county, less than half the national woodland. However, the number and coverage in will also affect species selection, e.g. on average.At a local level there are also a wide the county is relatively restricted, in part due to the free draining chalk soils where there is range of County Wildlife Sites, and Local the low lying and predominantly arable character a move away from beech which is showing Nature Reserves. of much of the rural area.There are a number widespread signs of drought stress. of strategic sites adjacent to the sub-region, • The need to create additional shade in the which provide valuable recreation opportunities landscape as a result of warmer summers. 2.11 including:Thetford Forest, Newmarket Heath, This would seem to encourage additional The County Structure Plan promotes Grafham Water,Therfield Heath and the Ivel Valley. woodland creation as part of the recreational resource for the population. ‘Countryside Enhancement Areas’ combining biodiversity, informal recreation and landscape 2.15 enhancement.Target habitats are: Many of the strategic visitor attractions in the • Wetland Habitats sub-region are closely related to the potential • Acid Grasslands and Heaths of informal and quiet recreation such as the • Woodlands and Hedgerows National Trust’s properties at Wimpole Hall, Wicken Fen and Anglesey Abbey.These also • Chalk and Limestone Grassland provide the scope to act as hubs in the Rights • Wet Grassland and Hay Meadows of Way network.

6 Green Infrastructure Strategy Green Infrastructure Strategy 7 Methodology of Analysis of Green Infrastructure Data Methodology of Analysis of Green Infrastructure Data

3. Methodology of Analysis of Green Infrastructure Data Scale Population 3.1 3.5 3.8 • Steering Group The Green Infrastructure Steering Group In order to evaluate the data available on the Four tiers of scale, based on area of Green To measure the level of provision of Green has played a major role in guiding the different aspects of Green Infrastructure it was Infrastructure site, have been applied in the Infrastructure for both existing and future study including: the development of the important to decide which aspects were to be study as follows: populations, an area of land in hectares based on brief, advising on the emerging analysis included in the analysis process.A wide range population figures per thousand has been used. and strategy and review of final report A. Sub-regional provision = Sites or habitats of data sets were collated for the analysis from and documents. over 500ha over 40 sources.The following categories of land • Stakeholder Consultation Standards of Informal Open Space use were included in the definition of Green B. City scale provision = Sites or habitats A wide range of key stakeholders were Infrastructure in this study: over 100ha 3.9 contacted both in the data collection process and for more detailed discussions. • Urban Parks and (public) Gardens C. District scale provision = Sites or habitats over 20ha There are currently a range of standards for A number of one to one meetings were • Country Parks open space used by Local Authorities and held with lead organisations including D. Neighbourhood scale sites = Sites or District Councils in their Local Plans.These County and District Councils,Wildlife • Natural and semi–natural Greenspaces, habitats over 2ha (including wetland areas) differing standards have been allowed for in the Trust, Forestry Commission, National Trust analysis.As new Local Development Frameworks and the representatives of a number of • Green Corridors (including watercourses) 3.6 (LDFs) are prepared the existing standards for the major developers with interests in • Amenity Greenspaces (publicly accessible) Open Space, Green Infrastructure and Strategic some of the key developments sites in It is recognised that there are many smaller Open Space will be subject to ongoing review by the sub-region. • Churchyards and Cemeteries sites and features, such as hedgerows, drainage each of the District Councils. Revised standards • Stakeholder Workshop channels/streams and private gardens.Together will then be included in the LDFs and applied A stakeholder workshop, attended by over these make an important contribution to the 3.2 to future planning applications. 50 delegates, was held on 21st November overall pattern of Green Infrastructure network. 2005 to discuss the interim results from These categories included: internationally However, due to the limitations of the data the analysis and to provide input to the protected sites i.e. RAMSAR’s, SPA’s, SAC’s, available and the primary purpose of this study Analysis in GIS emerging Strategy. A series of group nationally protected sites i.e. SSSI’s & NNR’s, being strategic, sites under 2ha are not included 3.10 workshops were held looking at both local sites including County Wildlife Sites and in the analysis. the main strategy issues for the sub-region Local Nature Reserves, National Inventory To map the levels of provision of Green and the local issues at a District scale. of Woodland, including ancient/semi natural Infrastructure across the Cambridge Sub-region Catchment Area woodland and Common Land and Access Land. seven different applications of analysis using 3.7 Geographical Information Systems (GIS) were 3.3 used.The analysis has identified in spatial terms From each of the above scales of provision the deficits at different scales and where future A number of categories of open space an appropriate catchment area has been Green Infrastructure could be targeted to provide were omitted from the definition of Green applied as follows: a more comprehensive cover. However, the Infrastructure for the purpose of the calculations • Sites or habitats over 500ha = 10km findings from the analysis needed to be balanced Image courtesy of TLP and analysis of Green Infrastructure in this study. catchment area with and tested against the local landscape These groups included: playing fields, golf character, biodiversity targets and existing and • Sites or habitats over 100ha = 5km courses, children’s play areas, allotments and future populations’ needs. As a result, it is likely catchment area private gardens. that deficits in areas of relatively low population • Sites or habitats over 20ha = 1.2 & 2km will have a lower priority and also follow a catchment areas different form of implementation. Standards • Sites or habitats over 2ha = 300m 3.4 catchment area Stakeholder Consultation Various standards were established to analyse 3.11 the Green Infrastructure data sets.These standards have been derived from the TCPA’s An integral part of the development of the ‘Biodiversity by design’ and English Nature’s Green Infrastructure Strategy has been the ‘Accessible natural greenspace in towns and involvement of stakeholders whose input has cities – a review of appropriate size’.Three types been invaluable to in the development of the of measurement have been used in the analysis strategy.This process was carried out through of Green Infrastructure i.e. scale, catchment the following main steps: area and population.

8 Green Infrastructure Strategy Green Infrastructure Strategy 9 Review of Existing Green Infrastructure Review of Existing Green Infrastructure

4. Review of Existing Green Infrastructure Analysis at Sub-regional scale © Crown copyright.All rights reserved 100023205 2006 Image courtesy of FC 4.1

Chatteris The spatial analysis of Green Infrastructure Ramsey was carried out at a range of scales including: Sawtry Ely • Sub-regional • City • District Mildenhall Soham In addition, existing strategic linear corridors Huntingdon St Ives were mapped and overall green infrastructure provision was assessed against current and future Cottenham Burwell Northstowe populations. Some of the results are illustrated Newmarket in the following pages.

St Neots Cambourne Sub-regional scale (Sites over 500ha) Cambridge 4.2

The analysis identifies the influence of sites over KEY Sawston 500ha across the sub-region.The existing pattern Cambridge Planning Sub-region Cambridgeshire County Boundary is that these largest sites are located to the District Boundary Haverhill north of the sub-region and include those at Green Infrastructure Green Infrastructure (>500ha) Royston Grafham Water, along the River Ouse and Ouse 10km Catchment of Green Infrastructure (>500ha) Major Development Site (>100) Washes,Wicken Fen and Mildenhall Woods, east Saffron Walden FDC Major Development (>100) 0369121.5 of the county boundary.There are surprisingly Kilometers Settlements Over 5000 no existing sites of a sub-regional scale to the south of the County.

City-scale Open Space (Sites over 100ha) Analysis at City scale © Crown copyright.All rights reserved 100023205 2006 4.3

The second application, which covers sites over Chatteris Ramsey 100ha in size, indicates a wider distribution of Sawtry

sites across the sub-region and in particular the Ely sites to the west and south west of Cambridge and the parts of Newmarket Heath just over the Mildenha Suffolk border.This application identified gaps to Soham Huntingdon the south east of the sub-region and deficiencies St Ives to the north and north west of Cambridge. In Cottenham Burwell particular these are located in the vicinity of the Northstowe

settlements of Cambourne, Bar Hill and the Newmarket proposed settlement of Northstowe.

St Neots Cambourne Cambridge

KEY Sandy Sawston Cambridge Planning Sub-region Cambridgeshire County Boundary District Boundary Haverhill Green Infrastructure Biggleswade Green Infrastructure (>100) 5km Catchment of Green Infrastructure (>100ha) Royston Major Development Site (>100) Saffron Walden FDC Major Development (>100) 0369121.5 Settlements Over 5000 Kilometres

X10 GreenGreen InfrastructureInfrastructure StrategyStrategy Green Infrastructure Strategy 11 Review of Existing Green Infrastructure Review of Existing Green Infrastructure

Review of Existing Green Infrastructure

District-scale Provision (Sites over 20ha) Quantity of Green Infrastructure: Population Yaxley 4.4 Chatteris 4.6 Ramsey Chatteris Sawtry Ramsey The district scale application illustrates This application was based on the quantity of Sawtry Ely catchment areas of 1.2 km.At this finer ‘Accessible Green Infrastructure’ in ha measured Ely scale there is a wider distribution of Green against the population of Wards in 2004 (for Infrastructure sites including along some of Mildenhall the existing situation) and 2021 (for the future Soham Mildenhall Huntingdon the river corridors including the Old West St Ives provision).The levels of provision were banded Soham River (Ouse) and the Cam. For a number of to reflect the differing existing standards of Huntingdon St Ives settlements the Green Infrastructure provision open space within each District. Cottenham Burwell Northstowe is provided in association with the river Cottenham Burwell corridors e.g. Huntingdonshire District Newmarket KEY 4.7 Cambridge Planning Sub-region Newmarket demonstrates a high concentration of sites at Cambridge County Boundary St Neots Cambourne this scale along the River Ouse.The application District Boundary Cambridge The 2004 data illustrates that there are wards St Neots also illustrates deficiencies for areas to the north below the minimum standards of informal open Settlements Over 5000 Cambridge of Cambridge including, Northstowe, Bar Hill, Accessible Green Infrastructure space set out in Local Plans and LDF’s. For Accessible Green Infrastructure in 2004 Cottenham and Burwell. Chatteris is also example within South Cambridgeshire these 0.00 – 0.39 ha/1000 population KEY under-provided, particularly to the north, Sandy Sawston 0.40 – 1.59 ha/1000 population Cambridge Planning Sub-region include locations to the west and south of the Sandy Sawston 1.60 – 1.79 ha/1000 population west and east.There are a number of locations District Boundary District. Cambridge City which has the highest 1.80 – 5.09 ha/1000 population Green Infrastructure Haverhill where there are deficits and poor or non- Biggleswade standard of Green Infrastructure (1.8ha of 5.10 – 5.49 ha/1000 population Haverhill Green Infrastructure (>20ha) Biggleswade existent connections between sites; however 1.2km Catchment of Green Infrastructure (>20ha) informal open space per 1,000) shows generous 5.50 – 6.69 ha/1000 population Royston in many of these locations there are no Major Development Site (>100) provision in some wards to the north east, south 6.70 – 6.89 ha/1000 population Royston FDC Major Development (>100) 6.90 – 9.99 ha/1000 population Saffron Walden existing larger settlements. Settlements Over 5000 Saffron Walden west and south west of the City, however there 10.00+ ha/1000 population 0369121.5 Kilometres Analysis at District scale © Crown copyright.All rights reserved 100023205 2006 is a marked under-provision in some wards to the north and south. Accessible Green Infrastructure by Ward – 2004 © Crown copyright.All rights reserved 100023205 2006 Analysis of Strategic Linear Corridors 4.5 4.8 To identify accessibility to the strategic Rights In the 2021 situation the new settlements of Way network, published strategic Long Analysis of Stategic Rights of Way © Crown copyright.All rights reserved 100023205 2006 and urban extensions were included in the Accessible Green Infrastructure by Ward – 2021 © Crown copyright.All rights reserved 100023205 2006 Distance Routes and Sustrans Routes were population figures. Defined major open space Chatteris Littleport analysed.The location of the existing and new Littleport Chatteris initiatives that are either Government funded Ramsey main navigable waterways were also illustrated Ramsey Sawtry Sawtry or within LDF’s or Local Plans were included along with new features including the Guided within the quantities of Green Infrastructure. Ely Busway/Bridleway corridor. In addition, the Ely The sub-region analysis highlights new deficiencies relationship between the Accessible Green e.g. an under-provision to the standard of 0.4ha Mildenhall Infrastructure sites and Rights of Way was Mildenhall Soham Soham per 1,000 at Girton and Impington arising from Huntingdon St Ives mapped. For the long distance footpaths a Huntingdon St Ives Brampton Brampton the additional new development, which would catchment of 1km was applied and for strategic Godmanchester Godmanchester suggest the need for additional open space Bridleways and for Sustrans Routes, a 5km Cottenham Burwell Cottenham Burwell Northstowe Northstowe provision.Wards which include the new catchment was applied.The analysis highlighted Newmarket settlements at Northstowe and East Cambridge Newmarket a number of issues. Firstly the scope for greater have significantly increased provisions as a result connectivity between some of the long distance St Neots Cambourne of the new Country Parks and open space KEY St Neots Cambourne published routes. Secondly a number of Cambridge Cambridge facilities within the development proposals. Cambridge Economic Sub-region Cambridgeshire County Boundary settlements e.g. Cambourne, Chatteris, Soham KEY Accessible Green Infrastructure Cambridge Planning Sub-region and Cottenham in the sub-region, are not Major Development Site (>100) Accesible Green Infrastructure Settlements Over 5000 connected to any of the Strategic Routes and this 1km Catchment of Strategic should be a priority in the development of the Pedestrian Routes Sandy Sawston Accessible Green Infrastructure in 2021Sandy Sawston Published Routes 0.00 – 0.39 ha/1000 population Green Infrastructure Strategy.Thirdly the scope (Footpaths & Bridleways) 0.40 – 1.59 ha/1000 population Guided Bus Route Haverhill 1.60 – 1.79 ha/1000 population Haverhill Biggleswade Biggleswade for enhanced connectivity for strategic cycle and Navigable Waterway 1.80 – 5.09 ha/1000 population Fens Waterways Link 5.10 – 5.49 ha/1000 population bridleways to the south west and south east of Royston Railway 5.50 – 6.69 ha/1000 population Royston Cambridge and finally the generally poor Railway Station 6.70 – 6.89 ha/1000 population Saffron Walden Major Development Site (>100) 6.90 – 9.99 ha/1000 population Saffron Walden connectivity from the strategic routes to areas of 0369121.5 Settlements over 5000 10.00+ ha/1000 population 0369121.5 Accessible Green Infrastructure. Kilometres Kilometres

12 Green Infrastructure Strategy Green Infrastructure Strategy 13 Towards an Integrated Green Infrastructure Strategy Towards an Integrated Green Infrastructure Strategy

5. Towards an Integrated Green Infrastructure Strategy

Vision for the Green Infrastructure Strategy improvements.A major focus of the Strategy County. Existing habitats and species should be 5.1 is to identify gaps in the existing connections protected and buffered and the scope for wider and to provide suitable linkages to counter the enhancement and development considered. The vision for the Green Infrastructure Strategy existing fragmented patterns. Connections will The approach should link with the 50 –year is summarised as follows: include: major new corridors both within and Biodiversity Vision and should target species and beyond the sub-region, enhanced links between habitats within the County Biodiversity Action ‘To create a comprehensive and sustainable existing habitat clusters and projects at a Plan.The Regional Biodiversity Map can inform network of green corridors and sites that: smaller scale that provide important links. and direct the specific improvements.There • enhance the diversity of landscape character should also be a focus on restoring and Multi-functionality. rebuilding degraded and damaged landscapes, • connect and enrich biodiversity habitats and Wherever possible greenspace in and around following the progressive impact of intensive settlements should be multi-functional, carefully • extend access and recreation opportunities agricultural practices or the more localised balancing various uses such as agriculture, access, for the benefit of the environment as well impacts of land use change such as mineral recreation and biodiversity to the local situation. as current and future communities in the and waste sites. In some locations there may Application of this principle should involve the Cambridge Sub-region.’ be scope to create new landscapes to respond creation of additional publicly accessible land to changing environmental conditions and to through a combination of land acquisition, accommodate flood management. 5.2 adoption and access agreements on private land through for example Environmental Landmark Projects. The vision for the Green Infrastructure Strategy Stewardship and Forestry Commission English To provide a focus for the Green Infrastructure for the Cambridge Sub-region builds on the Woodland Grant Schemes. Potentially competing Strategy there is a need to develop and create principles of sustainable development and land uses e.g. increased access, farmed land and a number of prominent projects in the sub-region acknowledges the wider context of developing biodiversity sensitivity will need to be carefully that will provide exciting and measurable evidence Cambridge as a world leader in research and managed to avoid conflicts. that the Strategy is being realised. Some of these technology. It recognises that economic growth will centre on individual sites that can effectively Extended Access. can bring a range of benefits including investment provide important ‘green hubs’ within the Enhanced access for all and by sustainable means in transport, education, health and high quality network. Other sites will also combine related including foot, cycle, horse and boat to promote housing areas. features of interest such as major recreational a healthier lifestyle is fundamental.The existing sports facilities, historical cultural sites or centres countywide network of Rights of Way and 5.3 for sustainable land management practices (such strategic routes will form the backbone of the as the use of bio fuels and water management). The Strategy is also mindful of the qualities network. New routes should focus as a priority of the University City, the historic market on the areas of planned growth and existing towns and surrounding villages and the wider settlement edges, particularly where there is Recommendations currently restricted public access.The development landscape setting.A robust and improved 5.6 Green Infrastructure framework will provide an and expansion of circular routes on both enhanced backdrop that will assist in attracting land and waterways should be promoted and To provide more specific direction to the business and inward investment into the area. explored. Gaps in the network including suitable strategic objectives fourteen recommendations bridging points should also be included. Existing have been established.The recommendations and new access routes should wherever possible can be grouped into five groups as set out below, 5.4 follow and double as biodiversity corridors. but the order does not infer any priority: However, the demands of access from existing The overall Strategy is graphically illustrated R1–R5 are focused on the enhancement of the and expanding populations will need to be by the Proposed Strategic Masterplan (separate existing habitats of biodiversity interest, as reflected carefully managed to protect sensitive pull out A2) with individual projects detailed in in the 50 Year Wildlife Vision environments by use of suitable management the Appendices.The strategy is supported by the plans and agreements. R1 Promote all existing river corridors following objectives and recommendations. in the sub-region as focal features for Landscape Enhancement. biodiversity and access enhancement The strategy should reflect the distinctive Strategic Objectives and creation patterns of the Cambridgeshire landscape, 5.5 both in terms of its natural and its historical R2 Promote the extension and creation and cultural landscapes. Proposals should of enhanced biodiversity and access linkages between existing ancient and semi natural A number of strategic objectives underpin and always promote and enhance the local diversity woodland clusters inform the direction of the Green Infrastructure and distinctiveness of each area and should draw Strategy as follows: on the guidance of existing and emerging R3 Promote the extension and creation Connectivity of habitats. landscape character assessments produced of traditional fen habitats including The provision of improved linkage between by local authorities to further this objective. wetland, meadow and wet woodland with seasonal flooding existing and proposed Green Infrastructure Biodiversity Enhancement. resources is key to the success of the strategy. The strategy should reflect the regional R4 Identify and promote opportunities This particularly applies to biodiversity corridors biodiversity resources, patterns and targets and to enhance existing habitats and linkages and habitats. Existing corridors will be protected enhance the distinct natural environments in the of chalk habitats and enhanced and act as a focus for further

14 Green Infrastructure Strategy Green Infrastructure Strategy 15 Towards an Integrated Green Infrastructure Strategy Towards an Integrated Green Infrastructure Strategy

Towards an Integrated Green Infrastructure Strategy Image courtesy of FC The Green Grid © Crown copyright.All rights reserved 100023205 2006 R5 Protect acidic heath habitats, encourage Yaxley restoration and enhance linkages with sites Green Corridor Initiatives 13 1 Ouse Valley Strategic Green Space Corridor to the west on the Greensand Ridge and 24 to the east to the Breckland 25 2 River Rhee Enhancement Project Chatteris Ramsey R6 – R7 are concerned with the creation of 3 River Granta Enhancement Project Sawtry 1 15 new corridors of biodiversity to tackle the 4 River Cam Enhancement Project 9 Ely 14 fragmented pattern 5 Old West River – Earith to River Cam 7

R6 Promote green bridges over major 6 Cam Valley – Cambridge to Ely 8 29 18 Mildenhall physical barriers to protect and develop 7 River Lark Enhancement Project Soham Huntingdon 6 biodiversity connectivity St Ives 8 Grafham Water to Abbots Ripton Corridor 5 17 19 R7 Create new strategic biodiversity and 9 Fen Edge Project 12 1 access corridors linking main settlements 10 Guided Bus Route Green Corridor: Cottenham Burwell and green hubs Cycleway/Bridleway & Sculpture Park 30 Northstowe Newmarket 11 Northwest Cambridge Settlement Link 31 10 R8– R9 focus on providing major greenspaces 31 11 to serve existing and new populations arising Spatial Structure of the Green 12 Northstowe, Cottenham to Old West River, St Neots Denny Abbey and Wicken Fen 22 16 Cambourne 28 from growth in the sub-region Infrastructure Strategy 16 Cambridge 13 South Peterborough Green Park to Great Fen Link 23 R8 Create range of new strategic accessible 5.7 21 14 Chatteris to Ely Green Corridor 23 greenspaces around the fringe of Cambridge, 26 The spatial development of the Green 15 Chatteris to Somersham Biodiversity 20 Northstowe and the Market Towns in 20 27 Infrastructure Strategy is best understood and Access Corridors association with planned major developments Sawston 3 16 Cambridge to St. Neots Green Corridor 2 as comprising three aspects: corridors, sites 27 R9 Develop existing and create new 21 and areas. KEY Haverhill 4 orbital and strategic recreational routes Cambridge Planning SuBiggleswadeb-region to the countryside and around the fringes 8 New Green Corridor 19 19 of Cambridge and the Market Towns in A. Corridors – Green Grid Network 2 Existing Green Corridor Enhanced Royston Existing and Proposed Green Hub association with existing and planned Saffron Walden 5.8 Accessible Green Infrastructure (>20ha) major developments Green Infrastructure (>20ha) B. Sites – Major Green Infrastructure Sites Major Development Site (>100) R10–R13 concentrate on the enhancement of the The first part in the development of the Strategy is the development of an appropriate Green FDC Major Development (>100) recreational access network 5.9 Settlements Over 5000 Grid.This seeks to provide a network of routes R10 Promote enhanced and new waterway combining both existing corridors that can be Over 20 significant sites are included in the links within the Fens to provide improved enhanced and a series of new green corridors. Strategy.A number of these comprise new access by water In the Cambridge Sub-region the main existing facilities while others build on existing sites. R11 Promote biodiversity and landscape corridors are the rivers and watercourses. The majority of the sites are located on Major Green Infrastructure Sites © Crown copyright.All rights reserved 100023205 2006 enhancements in rural areas particularly along The Ouse Valley and Ouse Washes are the most corridors and the larger ones form key the route of existing Strategic Rights of Way prominent features but the other rivers which Green Hubs within the network or provide Major Green Infrastructure Sites & Initiatives in turn filter into a network of ditches and Landmark Projects. Some of the major sites A Fen Drayton Chatteris E Ramsey L R12 Promote and improve the network, drains and streams, are a key part of the existing are important Historic Cultural Centres and B Houghtom meadows (Part of Ouse valley, Sawtry status and quality of strategic/published routes Wet Woodland & Wet Meadows Project) H Ely network. It is proposed to enhance all the include Anglesey Abbey, Denny Abbey,Wimpole C Needingworth Wet Fen: Phase1 & Phase2 M R13 Promote the provision of river major existing corridors. Hall and Park, and Wandlebury Country Park. D Grafham Water Ancient and Semi Natural Woodland Link bridging points in key parts of the Rights Most of the other sites are related to proposed The new corridors have been identified to E Great Fen project Mildenhall of Way network development sites within the sub-region F Wicken Fen Vision T Soham provide linkage of biodiversity clusters or features Huntingdon St Ives C indicating the provision of new facilities G Gog Magog Countryside Project B R14 underlines the importance of providing and also to give enhanced public access.Where in close proximity to urban expansions and H Ouse Washes Extensions A Landmark Projects as a catalyst for the delivery and possible, these routes have been selected to D S Cottenham F Burwell settlements and help provide for shortfalls in J Bassingbourne Chalk Grassland Improvements Northstowe public awareness of the Strategy through a variety follow an existing published route or right of K Wimpole Hub Project the existing network of Green Infrastructure. P Newmarket of exciting projects way.A range of environmental schemes would L South Chatteris Country Park/Strategic Open Space Q N X be promoted along these routes, resulting in a M Ely Country Park R14 Support the creation and development St Neots Cambourne mosaic of habitats. Corridors will inevitably N Regional Arboretum KEY U Cambridge W of Landmark Projects to focus the delivery C.Wider Area Initiatives P Rowing lake & Enhanced Public Access & Recreation Cambridge Planning Sub-region vary in width dependent on the characteristics Y of the Green Infrastructure Strategy and 5.10 Existing and Proposed Green Hub V of the locality and the opportunities that arise Q Land East of St.Neots G encourage linkage with recreational and A Major New Green Infrastructure Site R Barrington Chalk Grassland Improvements K R historic/cultural sites and projects for working with landowners. However, it is Some initiatives and projects will need to Historic Cultural Centre S Northstowe: Landscape Buffer & Country Park ndy Sawston envisaged that many of the corridors have the spread over a wider area.These relate mainly Proposed Green Bridge T North West of Huntingdon: Strategic Open Space Project Proposed Bridge Crossing scope to be extensive, exceeding 1km in width. J to agricultural landscapes where the mechanisms District Council Green Infrastructure Initiatives Haverhill There are some 40 corridors proposed which U Coton Countryside Reserve for delivery will focus on partnership liaison V Southern Fringe, Monsanto Site Accessible Green Infrastructure (>20ha) together will develop a robust green grid and Green Infrastructure (>20ha) with landowners and tenants.The initiatives W Cambridge East Royston access network.A number of the new corridors are designed to enhance the local landscape Major Development Site (>100) X NIAB FDC Major Development (>100) Saffron Walden pass over relatively open agricultural land 02.557.5101.25 character and biodiversity interest.There are Y Southern Fringe/Addenbrooke’s Settlements Over 5000 Kilometers connecting disparate habitats and settlements. six area initiatives proposed.

16 Green Infrastructure Strategy Green Infrastructure Strategy 17 Towards an Integrated Green Infrastructure Strategy aTowards an Integrated Green Infrastructure Strategy

Towards an Integrated Green Infrastructure Strategy Wider Area Initiatives © Crown copyright.All rights reserved 100023205 2006 Scale Huntingdon, St. Neots & St. Ives Chatteris has a shortfall in greenspace and a Other Major Initiatives new Country Park to the south of the town 5.11 These three market towns lie adjacent to the • Bridge of Reeds Chatteris River Ouse and its associated habitats where is required. Enhanced linkage to Somersham to the Ramsey • Cam Valley Project Sawtry The concept of Green Infrastructure can be there is scope to secure continued enhancement south along the line of the disused railway should Ely understood and applied at different hierarchies and access for all settlements.At Huntingdon be encouraged and the provision of the proposed • Chalk Grasslands Project, or geographical scales. It is proposed that in improved corridors should also be provided to Fen Waterways link to the west of the town. Devils Dyke Project the context of the Cambridge Sub-region the the north to the ancient/semi natural woodland Mildenhall Local scale • Ely Country Park Soham Strategy should be considered on three levels: clusters, linking with the proposed development Huntingdon St Ives At this detailed scale the application will be V at North Bridge and a further corridor giving • Fen Waterways Project through a wide range of measures. Some projects Sub-regional scale access to the south of the town.The St. Neots • Gog Magog Countryside Project may relate to associated built developments where Cottenham Burwell This provides the overarching strategy showing Town Centre Initiative – Green Corridor Project Northstowe Section 106 agreements and planning conditions • Grafham Water ancient and semi natural III the main strategic links at a macro scale.The seeks to develop the River Ouse resource. Newmarket can deliver improvements. Other schemes will woodland linkage Strategy provides for large-scale initiatives and There is also scope to provide a new corridor involve grant aid, partnerships, liaison with St Neots links. Some of these build upon existing projects of enhancements to the east of the town in an • Great Ouse Waterway and Wetland Project Cambourne KEY Cambridge or arise by necessity from major built landowners, trusts, charities, parish councils Cambridge Planning Sub-region existing open arable landscape linking with the • Needingworth Wet Fen I IV and other groups from the voluntary sector. Accessible Green Infrastructure (>20ha) development proposals. Other aspects of the proposed development east of the railway line. • Ouse Valley Wet Woodlands and Wet Green Infrastructure (>20ha) II strategy allow for more creative and imaginative St. Ives is located close to the major Green District Council Green Infrastructure Initiatives Meadows, inc. Houghton Meadows Major Development Site (>100) schemes to take the Green Infrastructure into Sawston Infrastructure proposals at Fen Drayton, Initiatives and Projects FDC Major Development (>100) VI the next 20 years and beyond.At this scale it is Houghton Meadows and slightly further • St. Neots Town Centre Initiative – Green Settlements Over 5000 important to identify the main connections that to Needingworth. 5.12 Corridor Project WIDER AREA INITIATIVES Haverhill 1 – Forest of South Cambridgeshire Biggleswade are currently lacking and provide a range of new IV IV The Green Infrastructure Strategy will build II – South East Cambridgeshire Claylands initiatives both within the sub-region and linking 5.13 III – West Cambridgeshire Claylands Royston beyond to adjacent counties. Ely and Chatteris upon existing initiatives that have been IV – South East Cambridgeshire Chalklands established in the sub-region.A major part of V – Heath Protection & Restoration Project (West) Saffron Walden Ely lies adjacent to the River Ouse, where the A wide number of new initiatives are included VI – Heath Protection & Restoration Project (East) 02.557.5101.25 Cambridge City and Market Town scale the Strategy is to bring together these separate Kilometres main focus is to develop a Country Park with in the Strategy.The process of selecting these Access to Green Infrastructure sites from major projects and principles into a co-ordinated enhanced links to the north and south along the projects has combined the results of the deficiency Proposed Strategic Masterplan: Cambridge and its fringes © Crown copyright.All rights reserved 100023205 2006 settlements is a key part of the Strategy.With the picture. Some of the existing projects have river.An opportunity to develop enhanced access analysis along with an informed consideration of inclusion of a number of major new developments funding secured while others await funding or and green corridor to the west towards Chatteris the aspects in the network that are missing or P on the fringes of Cambridge and the market are in the conceptual stage.The following is exists along the lines of the old drove roads. need strengthening.The result of this process 10 towns there is scope to significantly enhance the a list of the major existing Strategic Green means the network is typically organic, responding C3 landscape setting and accessibility of the local Infrastructure proposals. 11 A10 to the pattern of the landscape rather than being Northern Fringe population into the adjacent countryside. Northern Fringe X A1 Successful Government Growth Area Fund Bids too regular in form.There is scope for further 9 Image courtesy of FC 0 ) 3 4(T) (T 1 C2 Cambridge City 2004 – 06 projects to be developed within the proposed NIAB A 428 The main features of Strategy for Cambridge framework.All the initiatives are listed in the A • Coton Countryside Reserve A1303 C4 City and its fringes include: Appendices under the 14 recommendations 6 • Wicken Fen Vision Cambridge East (R1–R14) set out above and are illustrated on C8 W • Enhanced River Cam corridor 16 1 C5 the Proposed Strategic Masterplan (see A2 pull M1 Cambridge East • East Cambridge – Green Corridor and 29 U Successful Government Growth Area Fund out). For each initiative or project the following Country Park with links to Wilbraham Fen Round II Bids 2006 – 08 KEY information has been considered: District Boundary 23 Settlements Over 2500 • Southern Cambridge – Hobson’s Brook • Fen Drayton Lakes • Relevant Strategic Objectives Major Residential Housing Site (>100) C7 A1134 corridor and Cam Corridor Additional Housing Sites (>100) South of Clay Farm • Forest of South Cambridgeshire from (as detailed above) Accessible Green Infrastructure (>2ha) C1 Grees Infrastructure (>2ha) 26 • Country Park to the north west of the city Great Eversden to Gamlingay on the Trumpington West • Priority – based on the 20 year vision 23 Sub-regional Strategy – New Green Corridor A1 A V 130 Bedfordshire border 3 • Gog Magog Countryside Project with 2 Sub-regional Strategy – Existing Green Corridor Enhancement 0 7 of the Strategy this has been assessed 1 23 C3 City Scale New Green Corridor – Create G ) enhanced access to the south and south • Great Fen Project (T in term of – City Scale New Green Corridor – Enhance 1 A1 east of the city • Wicken Fen Vision Highest Priority(***) i.e.Year 1–3 Cambridge Orbital Recreation Route V Major New Green Infrastructure Site 4 • Development of and enhanced access Medium Priority(**) i.e.Year 4–10 Guided Bus Route 2 A10 Long Term Priority(*) i.e.Year 11–20 Wicken Fen & Gog Magog Coutryside Project 3 ) 27 to Coton Countryside Reserve T ( Proposed Open Space as part of LDF/ADF 1 1 Proposed Bridge Crossing 00.81.62.43.20.4 A • Bridge of Reeds,Anglesey Abbey Visitor • Lead Organisations to promote Kilometres Centre and access to the Wicken Fen and develop the projects. Vision Project Further details relating to: delivery & funding Major Corridor Initiatives 2 River Rhee Enhancement Project within Cambridge and its fringes • Rowing lake at Milton mechanisms, long term responsibility and budget 3 River Granta Enhancement Project costings are provide in the Appendices and the 4 River Cam Enhancement Project • New orbital recreational route with C1 Enhanced Chalklands Access main technical report. 6 Cam Valley – Cambridge to Ely diverse radial access linkages to the City. C2 Northern Fringe/Cam Corridor 10 Guided Bus Route Green Corridor C3 Northern Fringe Enhanced Access Cycleway/Bridleway & Sculpture Trail C4 NW of Cambridge – Improved Access to Coton Reserve 11 North West Cambridge Settlement Link C5 Wimpole Way Green Corridor 16 Cambridge to St. Neots Green Corridor C6 Granchester Link 20 Barrington,Wimpole Hub and Forest of South C7 Outer Orbital Recreation Route Cambridgeshire to Greensand Ridge Corridor C8 Cambridge East to Coldhams Common & Cam Enhanced Areas 23 Outer Orbital Green Corridor 26 Fleam Dyke 27 Roman Road Route 18 Green Infrastructure Strategy Green Infrastructure Strategy 19 Funding and Implementation Funding and Implementation

6. Funding and Implementation

Partnerships 6.1 acquisition or capital and revenue associated 6.9 with land, which may include strategic links There are a range of ways of implementing and between existing sites, may be eligible for Partnerships are an essential element of funding Green Infrastructure.A number of the Growth Area Funding if continued after March the delivery of multi-functional landscapes. sources are well established e.g. Section 106 2008 (GAF3). Partnerships between government departments, Agreements, while others relate to new and local authorities, developers, landowners, evolving Government initiatives.The following charities and trusts can facilitate the delivery provides an overview of the range of current Charitable Trusts of Green Infrastructure projects. It is recognised key mechanisms that are relevant to Green 6.5 that the majority of the land holdings in the Infrastructure provision. sub-region are owned privately.The potential These may be established to manage individual for Countryside Project Officers to work closely projects or a range of facilities.Trusts may be with landowners will be vital in enabling the Planning Conditions funded through a variety of sources, e.g. Section network of Green Infrastructure to develop. 6.2 106 agreement monies, bequests or charitable giving. Existing Charitable Trusts are also a Planning conditions can be used where source of funding. Agri-environment and Woodland Grants consistent with planning policy.A residential 6.10 developer may be required to provide and manage greenspace to serve the proposed Endowments These new grants, which are being administered population but there must be a clear reason for 6.6 by the Rural Development Service (RDS) of the requirement of a condition. Guidance on the DEFRA (shortly to become Natural England) approach and minimum levels of provision are Provision of an income generating fund or asset and the Forestry Commission.They have the provided in Local Plans and LDFs. to assist with recurring running costs would potential to enhance the biodiversity, landscape facilitate the ongoing maintenance of the Green quality and public access of privately owned Infrastructure.This has been achieved with great farmland.This potential would be realised far Section 106 Agreements success with the Peterborough Development more effectively if a project officer or team 6.3 Corporation, identifying the rental income from could be assembled and funded by the RDS to an office building in the City to fund recurring target landowners in strategic locations, for These are used to secure developer-funded costs at the Nene Country Park. example the urban fringe of Cambridge, the five initiatives which are closely related to the Market Towns and where strategic access links proposals, e.g. open space requirements and are required over farmland by negotiated and Planning Gain Supplement recreation/sports facilities. Funding of new licensed rights of way. Strategic Open Space from 106 monies should 6.7 Image courtesy of CPS be directly related to Local Authority policies and published standards. It is strongly advised The Government has consulted on the possibility 6.11 that early discussions between developers are of introducing a planning gain supplement, as an Landowners and tenant farmers should be encouraged as the masterplans develop to alternative to Section 106’s, for funding strategic encouraged to apply for entry or organic level ensure effective integration with the greenspace development and community facilities. It is likely entry stewardship and higher-level stewardship strategy, and a clarification of roles and that many of the Green Infrastructure projects and/or English Woodland Grant Scheme responsibilities associated with future in the Strategy would be eligible for funding wherever possible. Landowners should be implementation. In order to make adequate through this source if it is introduced as encouraged to create and manage woodlands provision capital costs for implementation and suggested by Government. through application to the English Woodland a commuted sum for maintenance during an Grant Schemes as promoted by the Forestry establishment period need to be agreed. Roof Tax Commission and/or the Agri-environment 6.8 Schemes promoted by DEFRA.The appointment Growth Area Fund of project officers to work with landowners/ The Milton Keynes Partnership has pioneered tenants to bring forward appropriate schemes 6.4 the roof tax approach.A charge for each new that relate to the greenspace strategy would Funded by the Government integrated bids dwelling helps to pay for essential infrastructure be an important part of encouraging take up. for Green Infrastructure/public access are to support residential development. In Milton encouraged.These may involve partnerships Keynes the planned arrangement is that English between local authorities, government Partnerships will forward fund the infrastructure organisations and other delivery agents, such as contributions and recoup the money from Forestry Commission/Forest Enterprise,Wildlife developers as their developments progress. Trusts, the Woodland Trust and National Trust. Green Infrastructure is an essential component Funding covers capital and revenue expenditure, of sustainable residential development and primarily for a two-year period.There will consequently roof tax should be utilised. However be a need to generate income for ongoing this would need to be clearly set out in the eligible management. Proposed initiatives involving land categories by local authorities if this mechanism is applied within the Cambridge Sub-region.

20 Green Infrastructure Strategy Green Infrastructure Strategy 21 Funding and Implementation Funding and Implementation

Funding and Implementation

Image courtesy of FC 6.12 eligible and it must be recognised that with the emphasis moving away from landfill, this source It should be underlined that the Forestry of funding is likely to diminish. Discussions Commission’s, English Woodland Grant Scheme with waste operators will identify existing and can fund new woodlands planted under Section potential funding opportunities.The delivery of 106 agreements or under other Conditions of biodiversity conservation for UK species/habitats Planning (depending on the usual eligibility entry is one of the criteria identified for funding and criteria attached to the scheme). this mechanism.

6.13 Aggregates Levy Cambridgeshire County Council currently have 6.15 a Historic Environment Countryside Advisor, who works in partnership with RDS and English In April 2002 a levy on aggregate extraction was Heritage to advise farmers and landowners introduced. Part of the money raised by this levy on the heritage aspects of agri-environment is being used to finance the Aggregates Levy schemes, including Environmental Stewardship Sustainability Fund (ALSF).The aim of the ALSF is ELS/HLS and Woodland Grant Schemes. to address the environmental and social costs of He also maintains an active Monument aggregate extraction by delivering environmental Between 2006 and 2009 £234 million is being Management Programme, to enhance and improvements, minimising the demand for made available to help local communities in promote access to and understanding of historic primary aggregates and reducing the local effects England improve their environment through the landscape features.This has included work within of aggregate extraction. English Nature and The ‘Changing Spaces’ programme, which has three the Cambridge Sub-region on the Devil’s Dyke Countryside Agency have developed the ALSF priority areas including community spaces and Project, Fleam Dyke and Mutlow Hill,Worstead Partnership Grant Scheme.They will jointly access to the natural environment. Bids are Street Roman road, Giants Hill Rampton, Car administer an allocation of around £5.7 million in welcome from single organisations or Dyke Waterbeach, Camps Castle, Bartlow Hills 2005/2006 and £4 million in 2006/2007, to fund partnerships. Roman barrows, Fowlmere Moat and many others. Land and Community-based work. Expressions of interest and applications are now being accepted. Grant awards made by the ALSF Partnership Heritage Lottery Grants Countdown 2010 Biodiversity Action Fund Grants Scheme are normally in the range of 50% 6.18 – DEFRA and English Nature – 75% of eligible project costs. These are site/topic related (e.g. Public Parks 6.14 initiative) which usually involves the restoration Market Led Schemes and Income Generation SITA Trust of existing features.They can be applied for and The Countdown 2010 Biodiversity Action Fund 6.20 is the new name for the Environmental Action 6.16 administered by local government, quasi public Fund (EAF) biodiversity stream and is part of organisations and charitable trusts etc. The evidence so far suggests that the market Through the Enriching Nature Programme – a Europe-wide initiative.This fund will support alone is insufficient to deliver the necessary £13.5 million is available for biodiversity projects that help achieve the Government’s Green Infrastructure (CJC Consulting 2005). projects in England, between 2006–2008.This New Parks for People Programme commitment to halt the loss of biodiversity by However in areas of market demand this may provides funding for biodiversity projects 6.19 2010, through delivering the objectives of the apply to certain facilities e.g. for the National around any licensed and registered landfill site England Biodiversity Strategy and Biodiversity Trust and other Charities: tea rooms, shops, pay in England.This funding programme has been The Heritage Lottery Fund and Big Lottery Action Plan targets. Only voluntary conservation and display car parks. Major landowner sponsors developed by SITA Trust, in consultation with the Fund have announced the launch of the new sector organisations are eligible to apply for this may also relate to specific projects such as a nine Regional Biodiversity Fora in England. Each Parks for People Programme, which will operate fund. Grants will be made for two years (2006/07 regional Arboretum. Forum, or region, will receive £500,000 per year. in the first instance for approximately three and 2007/08) and the value of awards will be years. Grants ranging from £250,000 to £5 between £25,000 and £250,000 per year.Any Enriching Nature has been designed to support million are available for projects that will 6.21 grant will have to receive matched funding. the recovery of species and habitats identified as a priority by both national and regional improve public parks in the UK, and create new Monies cannot be used for the purchase of The use of income generating facilities and tourist biodiversity action plans. opportunities for communities to learn about land and only properly constituted charities and enjoy their local environment. For the facilities such as overnight accommodation in and Trusts can apply. purposes of this scheme, the term ‘public park’ association with new recreational opportunities Big Lottery Fund refers to an existing designed urban or rural such as long distance footpaths and cycle routes and eco tourism would have potential for The Landfill Tax 6.17 greenspace, the main purpose of which is for informal recreation and enjoyment. Such parks growth in association with an enhanced network 6.14 The Big Lottery Fund is responsible for are usually owned and managed by a local of Green Infrastructure.There might also be opportunities for franchising for specific facilities The Landfill Tax Credit Scheme can generate distributing half of the money that the National authority, although applications from other not- such as camping, boats, cafes, restaurants, finance for environmental, conservation and Lottery raises for good causes.Their Living for-profit organisations that own public parks boat/cycle hire within selected sites. Special public amenity initiatives managed by registered Landmarks initiative closed for application on are welcomed.A number of criteria, including events may also have the potential for income environmental bodies, although these often the 6th January 2006.The Greater Cambridge the park meeting the local social, economic and generation; however this would be highly preclude local authorities. Only projects located Partnership has put in a bid on behalf of the environmental needs, need to be met for funding dependent on the nature of the event concerned. within 10 miles of an active landfill site are Bridge of Reeds and Wicken Fen Vision. to be granted. Importantly both capital work and revenue activities will be supported.

22 Green Infrastructure Strategy Green Infrastructure Strategy 23 Next Steps Next Steps

7. Next Steps

Table A Summary of highest priority initiatives and projects See key to abbreviations on page 32.

Initiative/Project Initiative/Project Local Authority Lead Organisation(s) for delivery

Recommendation 1 Promote all existing river corridors in the sub-region as focal features for biodiversity and access enhancement and creation

1 St. Neots Town Centre Initiative – Green Corridor Project HDC St NTC, HDC A Fen Drayton Lakes SCDC RSPB C Needingworth Wet Fen Phase 1 SCDC RSPB 2 River Rhee Enhancement Project SCDC SCDC, EA 5 Old West River Enhancement Project – Earith to River Cam SCDC EA. FC, CCC – ROW 6 Cam Valley Project – Cambridge to Ely ECDC & SCDC SCDC, NT, EH

Recommendation 2 Promote the extension and creation of enhanced biodiversity and access linkages between existing ancient and semi natural woodland clusters

D Grafham Water ancient and semi natural woodland linkage HDC Great Fen Project (Including CWT HDC, EA, EN & IDB’s) ‘I’ Forest of South Cambridgeshire HDC & SCDC National Trust and Partners SCDC, ECDC, CCC, EA, IDB, DEFRA, EN, City Council Recommendation 3 Promote the extension and creation of traditional fen habitats including wetland, meadow and wet woodland with seasonal flooding

E Great Fen Project HDC Great Fen Project (Including CWT, HDC, EA, EN & IDB’s)

F Wicken Fen Vision ECDC & SCDC National Trust and Partners – SCDC, ECDC, CCC, EA, IDB, DEFRA, EN, City Council ‘IV’ Chalk landscapes Enhancement – south east of Cambridge SCDC Devil’s Dyke Steering Group

Recommendation 7 Create new strategic biodiversity and access corridors linking main settlements and green hubs

10 Guided Busway Green Corridor HDC & SCDC CCC – Highways, SCDC, CWT, FC 11 North West Cambridge settlements link – Cambourne SCDC CCC – Highways, SCDC, FC 12 Northstowe, Cottenham to Denny Abbey SCDC SCDC, EH, Farmland Museum Bridge of Reeds and Wicken Fen Corridor Image courtesy of NTPL/Paul Harris 7.1 13 South Peterborough Green Park to Great Fen Link HDC & PCC PCC, PECT, FC, EN To progress the implementation of the Strategy K Wimpole Hub – Cobbs Wood Demonstration Farm SCDC NT the following key steps have been identified. Wimpole Hall Farm Recommendation 8 Create range of new strategic accessible greenspaces around the fringe of Cambridge, Northstowe and the Market Towns in association with planned major developments Programming and Priorities 7.2 G Gog Magog Countryside Project SCDC CPS, CWT, MT, FC

The Strategy suggests three priorities for delivery L South Chatteris Country Park – promote an area of Strategic Open Space FDC FDC of the Strategy over the 20 year vision. It should M Develop Ely Country Park on River Cam to serve existing ECDC ECDC, FC be emphasised that if schemes are not included and future populations within the highest priority category that they are Q,22 Land East of St. Neots – pocket park in association with development HDC HDC, Developers, FC no less important in strategic terms.A number and green corridor of the initiatives, e.g. the wider Fen Edge Project, S Northstowe new settlement. Landscape buffers to existing villages, SCDC SCDC, CCC & Developers, FC would deliver a significant part of the overall water park by GBR and Country Park vision and strategy; however it is likely that it Land North West of Huntingdon – promote Strategic Open Space project will realistically take longer to build support and T HDC HDC, Developers, FC funding for this extensive network of corridors U Coton Countryside Reserve SCDC CPS from Peterborough to Wicken and the Breckland. V Cambridge Southern Fringe, Monsanto Site – Strategic Open Space City C & SCDC SCDC, City Council, Developers, FC The Highest Priority Projects and Initiatives i.e. on enhanced Cam Corridor and to south west Year 1–3 have been selected since they are already Y Cambridge Southern Fringe/Addenbrooke’s – Strategic Open Space City C & SCDC City Council, SCDC & Developers, FC underway, well advanced or are part of major new centred on Hobsons Brook developments.These highest priority projects are Northern Fringe of Cambridge enhanced access to land east of Fen Road City C & SCDC SCDC, CCC & Developers, FC separately identified in Table A opposite.These C2 should also be read with the Proposed Strategic C3 Northern Fringe of Cambridge – ‘Arbury Camp’ – enhanced linkage SCDC CCC & Developers Masterplan (separate pull out A2). to west of Histon Road

24 Green Infrastructure Strategy Green Infrastructure Strategy 25 Next Steps Next Steps

Next Steps

Table A Summary of highest priority initiatives and projects See key to abbreviations on page 32. Funding Recommendations • Authorities should consider how they • Developing interest at a parish scale for Initiative/Project Initiative/Project Local Authority Lead Organisation(s) for delivery 7.7 can contribute to projects either through involvement in e.g. pocket parks and local Recommendation 9 financial assistance, staff resources or A review of the budget estimates for the nature reserves Develop existing and create new orbital and strategic recreational routes to the countryside and around the fringes of Cambridge preferably both. It is recommended that initiatives and projects, indicates that capital • Community Tree planting and working and the Market Towns in association with existing and planned major developments there should be a target to establish at funding in the order of £92 million is required party days least one new project in each local authority (spread over the 20 year time span of the 10 Create Cycleway, bridleway along route of the Guided Busway HDC & SCDC CCC – Highways area within the first three years to ensure a Strategy), with a further 10% p.a. revenue • Development of a Cambridge Sub-region greenspaces newsletter, as successfully used Recommendation 11 momentum is established in the delivery of expenditure based on the number of the by some of the Community Forests.This Promote biodiversity and landscape enhancements in rural areas particularly along the route of existing Strategic Rights of Way the strategy and that this receives direct projects implemented at any time.To direct the should be overseen in the first instance support from the authority concerned. securing of funds from the complex and evolving 26 New Strategic access corridor from Wilbraham Fen/Fleam Dyke SCDC CCC, CWT, EN, EH by the Open Spaces Forum to Icknield Way • There will be a need to think strategically sources available and on the scale envisaged to ensure cross-region connections are it is recommended that a ‘Green Infrastructure • Use of press,TV and for continued 28 Chalk grassland project to follow on from the Devil’s Dyke project SCDC CCC, CWT, EN, EH established and for all local authorities Development Officer’ should be appointed. promotion radio Recommendation 12 to work together and support the Their brief would be to keep abreast of all the • Involvement with local schools and Promote and improve the network, status and quality of strategic/published routes implementation of the strategy, even where changes in funding opportunities, co-ordinate any voluntary organisations the facilities lie outside their local areas. the bids for the implementation of the strategy Establish definitive routes in place of permissive sections All CCC and motivate interest across the sub-region. of Published Routes Future Co-ordination Progressing Project This could particularly involve liaison with the Support the early funding and implementation of the Lost Highways Project All CCC business and developer community including 7.11 7.4 residential, employment, transport and minerals Recommendation 13 It is recognised that for the Green Infrastructure A number of the key projects, including those waste organisations to get the best deal for the Promote the provision of River bridging points in key parts of the Rights of Way network sub-region. Strategy to be successfully implemented there is with Government funding and those given the a need for continued co-ordination and direction. As shown River Cam Crossing at Upware to aid east – ECDC & SCDC NT, SCDC, EA highest priority in Table A, are already well It is recommended that this be delivered under west connections from Wicken, to Denny Abbey & west underway in the planning and funding stage.The Landmark Project the guidance of the ‘Green Infrastructure Forum’ As shown Promote additional crossing of River Ouse at Needingworth/ Church End HDC & SCDC CCC work on these should continue to progress at under the joint leadership of Cambridgeshire the earliest opportunity to promote and realise 7.8 Recommendation 14 County Council and Cambridgeshire Horizons. the Strategy. Support the creation and development of Landmark Projects to focus the delivery of the Green Infrastructure Strategy and encourage linkage with recreational and historic/cultural sites and projects The creation of Landmark projects is vital for The group should continue to be represented by providing visible evidence of realisation of the the local authorities in the sub-region and the F Promote the Wicken Fen Vision ECDC & SCDC NT 7.5 Strategy in the sub-region promoting its main environmental organisations. progress, achievements and potential to both the For the remaining projects there should be a Local Authority Involvement ideally include an endorsement of the • Each Local Authority should consider how local population and wider audiences. One of review of those considered to be of the highest Strategy itself but may also involve new they are going to promote and/or adopt these projects is The Bridge of Reeds which 7.3 priority or the most strategic in value. New policies e.g. promoting enhanced access the County Council’s proposed standard would provide a bold and prominent statement initiatives and projects should then be taken on the A14 connecting Cambridge City and the The sub-region contains five District Local on land adjacent to settlements, of 5.1ha of Strategic Open Space per 1,000 forward through the following steps: adjacent Wicken Fen Vision with links by Authorities and the County Council.The support establishing new countryside projects population in their LDF.This will involve cycle/foot/bridleway. of each authority is vital to the success of the and developing biodiversity. clarifying if there is any overlap between • Agreeing the lead organisation(s) the proposed County Council Standard of Strategy.As part of the implementation of the to promote the project 5.1ha of Strategic Open Space per 1,000 Green Infrastructure Strategy it is recommended 3. Review of standards of open space population and their own current • Carrying out a more detailed feasibility Stakeholder Engagement that each authority carry out a review of the study in landscape, biodiversity and standards of open space. 7.9 implications of the Strategy.This will include • Although each local authority has its own access terms standards for open space provision there the following stages: is a need to ensure that the existing • Working up a Business Plan to support The Green Infrastructure Strategy and Vision 4. Site specific plans standards are making an adequate provision funding bids.This will involve details of costs, should be launched to the wider public as part of 1. Public Consultation for existing and future populations and if • Authorities should produce guidelines for relevant sources of funding and time scale a Quality of Life Programme for the sub-region not, to assess the increased levels required. developing specific sites as ADF’s and to • Review of the landowners involved and the and the recommendations and projects promoted. • Each Local Authority should promote the PPG17 studies should be able to make a proactively engage with developers to ensure scope for joint working/landowners etc. Green Infrastructure Strategy through its valuable contribution to this assessment. co-ordination of the wider Strategy and the 7.10 LDF Consultation Strategy.The approach site’s potential for Green Infrastructure. of the Strategy and various initiatives and • Some of the existing standards of open 7.6 There should be a mechanism established to projects proposed in the area should be space include ‘informal open space’ while engage a wide range of local community and tested with statutory consultees and the others do not. A clearer definition of 5. Promoting Projects Many of the projects and in particular the Area public to establish support for them. informal open space and its relationship Wide Initiatives, should be supported by Project special interest groups in the implementation of in delivering Green Infrastructure is • Each authority should provide specific officers, funded to work with landowners and the Strategy to build and maintain recognition of support for the individual projects and required. Green Infrastructure is not government agencies to inform, promote and and gain buy-in to the vision and benefits of the initiatives that are within their area, 2. Policy development specifically mentioned in the current assist in the wider scale landscape improvements. Green Infrastructure Networks.This could be policies in terms of measurable provision (referring to Table A in the main report • In the light of consultation authorities achieved though a number of means including: that can be required from a development. for the full details).The 30 highest priority should also review their policies to The place for a new standard or policy schemes to promote over the next 3 years • Consultation on the main principles encourage the implementation of the should be considered. are indicated in the Table above. and sites within the proposed Strategy Green Infrastructure Strategy.This should

26 Green Infrastructure Strategy Image courtesy of FC Green Infrastructure Strategy 27 Appendices Appendices

8. Appendices

Schedule of Initiatives and Projects See key to abbreviations on page 32. Schedule of Initiatives and Projects See key to abbreviations on page 32.

Reference Initiative/Project Strategic Priority Lead Organisation(s) Reference Initiative/Project Strategic Priority Lead Organisation(s) On Drawings Objectives (1st=*** 2nd= ** 3rd=*) for delivery On Drawings Objectives (1st=*** 2nd= ** 3rd=*) for delivery Recommendation 1 Recommendation 6 Promote all existing river corridors in the sub-region as focal features for biodiversity and access enhancement and creation Promote green bridges over major physical barriers to protect and develop biodiversity connectivity

1 Ouse Valley Strategic Green Space Corridor C,A, E ** FC, HDC, CWT, FWAG, EA As shown Green bridge crossings to A14 as part of CHUMMS Route C,A ** HA at Bar Hill and south Godmanchester 1 St. Neots Town Centre Initiative – Green Corridor Project C,A, E *** St N TC, HDC As shown Green bridge crossings to A1(M), M11 and A11 (Fleam Dyke) C,A * Highways Agency 1 Great Ouse Waterway and Wetland Project C, E, ** EA, FWAG, FC, EN Recommendation 7 A Fen Drayton Lakes C, E *** RSPB Create new strategic biodiversity and access corridors linking main settlements and green hubs B Houghton Meadows E, C,A ** HDC, CWT, FWAG, FC, NT 5,9,12, 13, 17, 19, ‘Fen Edge’ Project – from Peterborough to the Brecks. C,A, M ** Wide variety of partners inc: C Needingworth Wet Fen Phase 1 C, E, LP *** RSPB E, C, F Great Fen Project, NT, CCC, HDC, SCDC, & ECDC, FC, RSPB C Needingworth Wet Fen Phase 2 C, E, LP ** RSPB 10 Guided Bus Route Green Corridor linking Cambridge, C,A *** CCC – Highways, SCDC, CWT, FC 2 River Rhee Enhancement Project C *** SCDC, EA Northstowe & Ouse Valley settlements 3 River Granta Enhancement Project C * SCDC, EA 11 Outer north west Cambridge green corridor linking C,A *** CCC – Highways, SCDC, FC Cambourne, Bar Hill and Northstowe 4 River Cam Enhancement Project C * SCDC, EA 12 Green corridor linking Northstowe, Cottenham, C,A, CC *** SCDC, EH, Farmland Museum 5 Old West River – Earith to River Cam C,A *** EA, FC, CCC – ROW Old West River, Denny Abbey and Wicken Fen 6 Cam Valley Project – Cambridge to Ely C, E,A, LP *** SCDC, NT, EH 13 South Peterborough South Parks to Great Fen Link C,A *** PCC, PECT, FC, EN 7 River Lark Enhancement Project Ca * ECDC, FC 14, H Chatteris to Ely green corridor using Drove routes C,A ** CCC – ROW, FC Recommendation 2 15 (a) Chatteris to Somersham corridors using disused railway line C,A ** SCDC, FDC Promote the extension and creation of enhanced biodiversity and access linkages between existing ancient and semi natural woodland clusters 15 (b) Chatteris to Somersham link along Fen Waterways corridor C,A * Fen Waterways Project D Grafham Water ancient and semi natural woodland linkage C, E, *** FWAG, FC, HDC, CWT 16 Cambridge to St. Neots Corridor linking Coton and C,A, M ** CCC – ROW 8 Biodiversity and access corridor between woodland clusters C,A * FC, HDC, CWT, HA Cambourne and the Ouse Valley. at Grafham Water & Abbots Ripton. 17 Wicken to Chippenham Project C,A * ECDC, FC ‘I’ Forest of South Cambridgeshire C, E,A *** CWT, FC WT 18 Soham to existing River Lark green corridor C,A * ECDC, FC ‘II’ South East Claylands landscape improvements C, E ** FC, BP and woodland planting 19 Icknield Way and chalk grassland enhancement Project C,A * CCC – ROW & Countryside Team ‘III’ West Cambridge Claylands Project – north of A428. E ** SCDC, HDC, CCC, FC 20 Barrington,Wimpole Hub on low hills and to west through C,A ** CCC, FC, NT Woodland and hedgerow creation/enhancement Forest of South Cambridgeshire to Greensand Ridge Recommendation 3 21 Cambourne,Wimpole to Therfield Heath, corridor C,A * CCC – ROW, CWT, NT Promote the extension and creation of traditional fen habitats including wetland, meadow and wet woodland with seasonal flooding 23 South and East Cambridge Outer Orbital green corridor C,A ** CCC – ROW E Great Fen Project – extension of Fenland habitats C, E,A, LP, *** Great Fen Project (Including CWT, from the Cam to Wilbraham Fen HDC, EA, EN & IDB’s) 30 Godmanchester,Yelling to Cambourne corridor C,A * CCC – ROW, HDC, SCDC, FC F Wicken Fen Vision – enhanced habitat provision and access C, E,A, M LP *** National Trust and Partners – SCDC, ECDC, CCC, EA, IDB, 31 Ouse Valley, (Paxton Pits), Yelling to Cambourne corridor C,A * CCC – ROW, HDC, SCDC, FC DEFRA, EN, City Council K ‘Wimpole Hub’ project with estate as green hub C,A, CC, E ** NT, FC H Ouse Washes extensions – new wetland habitats C, E ** CWT, RSPB in Forest of South Cambridgeshire Recommendation 4 K Cobbs Wood Demonstration Farm – Wimpole Home Farm LP *** NT Identify and promote opportunities to enhance existing habitats and linkages of chalk habitats K North Wimpole Woods Protected Bat Species Project E ** NT, EN, FC G Gog Magog Countryside Project C, M,A, E, *** CPS, CWT, MT J Chalk grassland improvements around Bassingbourn C,A ** CWT R Chalk grassland and woodland habitats improvements C, E ** CCC – Minerals around Barrington ‘IV’ Chalk landscape enhancements to the south east of Cambridge C, E, M,A *** Devil’s Dyke Steering Group Recommendation 5 Protect acidic heath habitats, encouraging restoration and enhanced linkages with sites to the west on the Greensand Ridge and to the east to the Breckland

‘V’ Acidic Heath Protection and Restoration Project – West C, E ** RSPB, CWT, CCC ‘VI’ Acidic Heath Protection and Restoration Project – East C, E ** CWT, CCC

28 Green Infrastructure Strategy Green Infrastructure Strategy 29 Appendices Appendices

Appendices

Schedule of Initiatives and Projects See key to abbreviations on page 32. Schedule of Initiatives and Projects See key to abbreviations on page 32.

Reference Initiative/Project Strategic Priority Lead Organisation(s) Reference Initiative/Project Strategic Priority Lead Organisation(s) On Drawings Objectives (1st=*** 2nd= ** 3rd=*) for delivery On Drawings Objectives (1st=*** 2nd= ** 3rd=*) for delivery Recommendation 8 Recommendation 11 Create a range of new strategic accessible greenspaces around the fringe of Cambridge, Northstowe and the Market Towns in the sub-region in association with planned major developments Promote biodiversity and landscape enhancements in rural areas particularly along the route of existing Strategic Rights of Way

G Gog Magog Countryside Project – Phase 1 – Green Hub C, M,A, E, CC *** CPS, CWT, MT, FC 26 Fleam Dyke to Icknield Way C, E *** CCC, CWT, EN, EH L South Chatteris Country Park M,A *** FDC 27, G,‘IV’ Roman Road Route – heritage and biodiversity trail to Haverhill C, E ** CCC/Friends of Roman Road and Fleam Dyke/FC M Ely Country Park M,A *** ECDC, FC 28 Chalk grassland project following on from the Devil’s Dyke Project C, E *** CCC, CWT, EN, EH P Rowing Lake & open space/Country Park in Cam Corridor LP,A, M * SCDC, CCC, SE Recommendation 12 Q, 22 East of St. Neots – pocket park & green corridor links C, M,A *** HDC, Developers, FC Promote and improve the network, status and quality of strategic/published routes to Ouse and east to Forest of South Cambridgeshire / Promote Strategic and Published Routes A ** CCC – ROW S Northstowe including landscape buffers, water park C, M,A, LP *** SCDC, CCC & Developers, FC and Country Park / Establish definitive routes in place of permissive sections A *** CCC of Published Routes T North West of Huntingdon Strategic Open Space and C, M,A *** HDC, Developers, FC access Project / Support Lost Highways Project to secure missing gaps A *** CCC in the local ROW network U Coton Countryside Reserve C, M,A, E, LP *** CPS / Cambridgeshire Circular Route – promoting diverse landscapes A * CCC – ROW, Sustrans V Southern Fringe, Monsanto Site – Strategic Open Space on and cultural locations. enhanced Cam Corridor C, M,A *** SCDC, City Council, Developers, FC 29 Huntingdon to Peterborough Cycleway – via ancient semi natural C,A ** CCC, Sustrans, FC W Cambridge East Development – including Green Corridor, woodland, the Great Fen Project and Nene Valley Park Country Park & Green Separation – links out to Wicken Fen Vision C, M,A ** City Council/SCDC & Developers, FC 14, 6, 28 Chatteris to Newmarket cycleway & bridleway via Ely, A ** CCC, Sustrans X NIAB site – Strategic Open Space to north West of Cambridge C, M,A ** SCDC, City Council, CCC & Wicken Fen and Soham with improved links to Girton, Impington, Histon and Cambridge Developers, FC F Promote Themed Heritage Trails in association with A ** Landscape East, EH Y Southern Fringe/Addenbrooke’s – Strategic Open Space C, M,A *** City Council, SCDC & Developers, FC Bridge of Reeds and associated Visitor Centre CCC – Archaeology including Hobsons Brook corridor – links to south Recommendation 13 C1 South East Cambridge countryside access Project C, M,A ** CPS, CWT, MT, FC Promote the provision of River bridging points in key parts of the ROW network C2 Northern Cambridge (Chesterton Sidings) – countryside C, M,A, E *** SCDC, CCC & Developers, FC As shown River Cam Crossing at Upware to aid east –west connections A *** NT, SCDC, EA access Project along Cam Corridor from Wicken, to Denny Abbey C3 Northern Cambridge (Arbury Camp) – enhanced access A *** CCC & Developers As shown Additional crossings at Swaffham Bulbeck Lode and Burwell Lode A ** NT linkage to west and Guided Bus Route Corridor As shown Additional crossing of River Ouse at Needingworth/ Church End A *** CCC C4 North west Cambridge (Madingley Road – M11) – improved A ** SCDC, CCC & Developers access to Coton Reserve As shown Additional crossing of River Cam/Rhee at Haslingfield A ** SCDC, CCC C5 Coton Reserve to Grange Road – Local green corridor and access A, C ** SCDC, CCC As shown Additional crossing of River Cam east of Granchester A ** SCDC, CCC C6 Granchester across the Cam to Trumpington – local green A, C As shown Additional crossing of River Ouse near Paxton Pits A ** HDC, CCC corridor and access ** SCDC, CCC Recommendation 14 C8 Cambridge East to Coldhams Common and Cam – enhanced A, E, C Support the creation and development of Landmark Projects to focus the delivery of the Green Infrastructure Strategy and encourage linkage with recreational and access link ** City Council historic/cultural sites and projects Recommendation 9 10 Sculpture trail as part of the Guided Bus Route Green Corridor LP ** Eastern Arts Association Develop existing and create new orbital and strategic recreational routes to the countryside and around the fringes of Cambridge and the Market Towns in association with existing and planned major developments F Wicken Fen Vision – habitat and landscape restoration LP,E,C,A,CC *** National Trust with cultural interpretation 10 Cycleway/bridleway along Cambridge to Huntingdon A Guided Bus Route from *** CCC – Highways G Wandlebury Country Park and Gog Magog Countryside Project – C, M,A, E, LP,CC ** CPS/MT/CWT green hub for East Anglian Chalk landscape C7 Cambridge Outer Orbital Recreation Route – surfaced A access route ** CCC – ROW N Regional Arboretum – on West Cambridge Claylands LP ** SCDC/FC/Private Sponsor Recommendation 10 As shown Bridge of Reeds – iconic landmark over A14 LP ** National Trust, Landscape East Promote the creation of enhanced and new waterway links within the Fens to provide improved access by water E, F Fenland Cultural Centre/s – at Great Fen & /or Wicken LP,CC * Great Fen Project/NT 24 Fen Waterways Project A ** FWRSG, EA P New Rowing Lake facility delivering strategic open along LP,A, M * SCDC, CCC, SE 25 Fen Waterways Project to Great Fen Project improvements from A * FWRSG, EA, Great Fen Project the River Cam corridor north of Ramsey and links towards Peterborough

30 Green Infrastructure Strategy Green Infrastructure Strategy 31 Appendices Bibliography

Appendices – Key to Abbreviations Bibliography

Benedict and McMahon East Cambridgeshire District Council GO-East Key – Strategic Objectives Lead Organisations Green Infrastructure: Smart Conservation Ely Environmental Capacity Study, 2001 RPG6 Regional Planning Guidance for for the 21st Century, 2002 East Anglia to 2016, 2000 C Connectivity BP Biodiversity Partnership East Cambridgeshire District Council • To protect and enhance existing biodiversity corridors CCC Cambridge County Council Cambridge City Council Issues and Options Paper for the Core Strategy Huntingdon District Council ( – ROW = Rights of way team) • Improve linkages between existing habitat clusters Cambridge Landscape Character Assessment, 2003 Development Plan Document, 2005 Huntingdonshire Local Plan, 1995 as amended by the Local Plan Alteration, 2002 • To identify the need for, promote and deliver new biodiversity CPS Cambridge Preservation Society Cambridge City Council East Cambridgeshire District Council Cambridge Landscape Character Assessment Issues and Options Paper for the Development Huntingdonshire District Council corridors/extensions to enhance the sub-regional network CWT Cambridgeshire Wildlife Trust Technical Summary, 2003 Control Policies Development Plan Document, 2005 Huntingdonshire Landscape and Townscape EA Environment Agency Assessment SPG, 2003 M Multi-functionality Cambridge City Council EERA • To promote enhanced public access to the landscape particularly adjacent EEDA East of England Redeposit Draft Local Plan, 2004 The draft East of England Plan,A Regional Spatial Huntingdonshire District Council to existing and planned settlements Development Agency Cambridge City Council and South Strategy for the East of England, 2004 Local Development Framework – Core Strategy: Cambridgeshire District Council Preferred Options Report, 2005 ECDC East Cambridgeshire EERA and EEDA Cambridge East Area Action Plan, 2006 A Accessibility District Council A shared vision:The regional economic Landscape Design Associates • To promote existing strategic cycleways, bridleways and footpaths Cambridgeshire County Council strategy for the East of England, 2004 A Vision for the Setting of Denny Abbey EN English Nature on behalf of RLW Estates Limited, 2002 • To identify new strategic cycleways, bridleways and footpaths Cambridgeshire Landscape Guidelines:A Manual EERA and EEEF for Management and Change in the Rural • Promote additional Strategic bridging points EH English Heritage Our Environment, Our Future:The regional ODPM Landscape, 1991 environment strategy for the East of England, 2003 Living Places – Cleaner, Safer Greener, 2002 • Promote new cycle links to complete circular routes from major settlements FDC Fenland District Council Cambridgeshire County Council EERA and the Forestry Commission ODPM • Promote navigable waterways FWRSG Fens Waterways Regeneration Cambridgeshire’s Biodiversity, 1997 Woodland for life:The regional woodland PPG2 Green Belts, 1995 Strategy Group Cambridgeshire County Council strategy for the East of England, 2003 ODPM E Landscape/Biodiversity Enhancement FC Forestry Commission Cambridgeshire and Peterborough EERA, ODPM and EEDA PPS7 Sustainable development in rural areas, 2005 • To identify broad area wide initiatives to enhance the existing landscape character Structure Plan, 2003 The Regional Social Strategy:A strategy to and biodiversity potential FWAG Farming Wildlife Advisory Group ODPM Cambridgeshire County Council achieve a fair and inclusive society in the PPS9 Biodiversity and geological conservation, 2004 HA Highways Agency Cambridgeshire and Peterborough East of England, 2004 LP Landmark Projects ODPM HDC Huntingdonshire District Council Waste Local Plan, 2003 East of England Biodiversity Forum/Land • To establish significant individual projects/ sites which act as a public focus PPG17 Open Space, Sport and Recreation, 2002 Cambridgeshire County Council Use Consultants & Terra Consultants for the implementation of the Green Infrastructure Strategy.To include bold IDB’s Internal Drainage Boards South Cambridgeshire District Council imaginative features and elements British Geological Survey for Mineral Resources East of England Biodiversity Mapping Project Cambridge Green Belt Study, 2002 IW In land Waterways in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, 2003 England Forestry Forum South Cambridgeshire District Council CC Green Infrastructure Historic Cultural Centre MT Magog Trust Cambridgeshire County Council England Forestry Strategy Review Green South Cambridgeshire Local Plan, 2004 • To identify and develop sites with public access to cultural facilities linked Cambridgeshire Rights of Way Infrastructure 24th November Paper 10/05 NT National Trust to the historic landscape features of the green infrastructure network. Improvement Plan, 2005 English Nature South Cambridgeshire District Council To include historic sites and the interpretation of past land uses and traditions. Pre-submission public participation Draft Local PCC Peterborough City Council Cambridgeshire County Council Reconnecting people and nature: English Nature’s approach, 2002 Development Framework for South PECT Peterborough Environmental Strategic Open Spaces Study, 2004 Priority (***= Yr 1-3,** = Yr 4-10,*=Yr 11-20) Cambridgeshire – Proposals Map, 2005 City Trust Cambridgeshire County Council Environment Agency Position Statement on Local Environmental South Cambridgeshire District Council RSPB Royal Society for the Population & Soco Economic Data, 2005 Quality and Liveability, 2002 Submission Draft Local Development Framework Protection of Birds Cambridgeshire County Council for South Cambridgeshire, 2006 50 Year Wildlife Vision Fenland District Council St N TC St. Neots Town Council The Fenland District-Wide Local Plan 1993, The National Trust Cambridgeshire County Council Wicken Fen Vision Expansion Project SCDC South Cambridgeshire supplemented by the Interim Statement of Local Transport Plan District Council Proposed Changes SPG, 2001 The Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Countryside Agency and Groundwork Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire SE Sport England Fenland District Council The countryside in and around towns:A vision The Fenland District-Wide Local Plan and Peterborough WT Woodland Trust for connecting town and country in pursuit of 2003, – Play Space Provision SPG, 2003 St. Neots Green Corridor Final Report, 2004 sustainable development, 2005 Forestry Commission The Wildlife Trust Ltd and East ODPM The East of England Inventory Cambridgeshire District Council Sustainable Communities: of Woodland and Trees, 2001 Cambridgeshire County Wildlife Sites Register, 2005 Building for the future, 2004 Forestry Commission Town and Country Planning Association DTLR National Inventory of Woodland and Trees – Biodiversity by Design:A guide for sustainable Green Spaces, Better Places, 2005 County Report for Cambridgeshire, 2002 communities, 2004 East Cambridgeshire District Council Forestry Commission Woodland Trust East Cambridgeshire District Local Plan, 2000 Woodland for Life in the East of England – Spaces for people 2004 The Wood Bank, 2003

32 Green Infrastructure Strategy Green Infrastructure Strategy 33