12 SITE & CONTEXT 2

13 Strategic Location of Waterbeach New Town

The proposed site for Waterbeach New Town is entirely within the South Cambridgeshire underpinned by the new Transport Strategy for Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire and District Council and Waterbeach Parish Council administrative boundaries. It is located set out policies and proposals to guide future development. Given the level of commuting approximately 6 km north of the urban edge of Cambridge. The site is positioned between in the district, emphasis is placed on the need to provide strategic transport infrastructure the A10, which defines the western boundary of the New Town, and the Cambridge to in parallel. According to the 2011 Census, more people in Cambridge than anywhere else Ely railway line, which marks its extent to the east. It lies immediately to the north of the in the United Kingdom are likely to use sustainable modes of transport to travel to work existing village of Waterbeach, and in turn, immediately beyond the outer edge of the and as a result there is a real focus on prioritising sustainable modes. Green Belt that surrounds the City of Cambridge. The River Cam lies beyond the railway line approximately 500m to the east of the site. The Development Plans provide a clear vision and spatial plan for growth covering both the city and surrounding district. Continued protection is given to the Cambridge Green Belt, South Cambridgeshire is recognised as one of the top places to live and work in the the River Cam corridor and the setting of the historic city. The overarching development country. It is largely a rural district which surrounds the city of Cambridge, the district is strategy focusses new development in accessible locations, reuse of previously developed comprised of over a 100 villages with the towns of Ely, Newmarket, St Ives and Huntingdon land and completing the delivery of planned new urban neighbourhoods. The focus for just beyond its borders. The qualities of its rural context are balanced against a nationally growth is located within: significant, thriving economy centred in Cambridge driven by technology research and development and world renowned excellence in education. As a result of the quality of life • The existing urban area of Cambridge; offered, it is one of the fastest growing areas in the country. • The fringe sites on the edge of Cambridge; • Defined, small-scale sites released from the inner Green Belt boundary; The inter-relationship between Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire is well established • Existing and newly identified new settlement locations at Cambourne, Northstowe, through the location of key employment sites, patterns of travel to work and access Bourn Airfield and Waterbeach; and to services and facilities. One of the key challenges facing Cambridge is balancing the • Identified villages. qualities of a compact city located within a high quality landscape setting against demands for growth to sustain economic success led by the knowledge sector. It is recognised that Cambridge already demonstrates success that comes with well planned growth and the city must grow to maintain its competitiveness and address demand for housing and Waterbeach New Town forms a crucial part of plans for the future. It is located beyond the issues of affordability without loosing sight of the factors that underpin its success. Green Belt on the edge of the surrounding Fens and offers outstanding opportunities for sustainable means of travel with a particular focus on walking, cycling and rail. Cambridge City Council and South Cambridgeshire District Council have both prepared new development plans for the Cambridge and surrounding area. Both plans are

14 WATERBEACH NEW TOWN, OUTLINE PLANNING APPLICATION - DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT Plan: Strategic Site Context

Legend

Site boundary

Strategic development sites

Green belt land

Watercourses/waterbodies

A Cambridge Science Park

B Wing Development Cambridge East H A C Cambridge Biomedical Campus G D Cambridge Southern Fringe F I B E West Cambridge E F North West Cambridge

G NIAB B H Orchard Park

I Cambourne West D C N 0 5000m 15 Policy Overview

Introduction assessed and taken into account – including appropriate opportunities for avoiding and The proposed allocation of a New Town on the land to the north of Waterbeach village mitigating any adverse effects, and for net environmental gains; and is contained explicitly within the adopted South Cambridgeshire Local Plan covering the e) patterns of movement, streets, parking and other transport considerations are integral period to 2031. to the design of schemes, and contribute to making high quality places.”

The planning policy context for the New Town in general terms is set out below Paragraph 103 goes on to states that “The planning system should actively manage highlighting matters of particular relevance to design and access considerations. patterns of growth in support of these objectives. Significant development should be focused on locations which are or can be made sustainable, through limiting the National Planning Policy Framework (2019) need to travel and offering a genuine choice of transport modes. This can help to The NPPF emphasises the importance of striving to achieve sustainable development, reduce congestion and emissions, and improve air quality and public health. However, covering economic, social and environmental strands. The Framework includes a focus on opportunities to maximise sustainable transport solutions will vary between urban and planning positively to secure economic growth and to meet objectively assessed needs for rural areas, and this should be taken into account in both plan-making and decision- housing, specifically requiring delivery of a wide choice of high quality homes. Para. 72 making.” states that: Chapter 12 focusses on “achieving well-designed places” setting out the need for “The supply of new homes can sometimes be best achieved through planning for larger development to respond to local character and be visually attractive, as well as scale development, such as new settlements or extensions to existing villages and towns emphasising the integration of development into the surrounding natural and built that follow the principles of Garden Cities.” environment. Paragraph 124 notes that “Good design is a key aspect of sustainable development, creates better places in which to live and work” The NPPF recognises the importance of promoting sustainable transport. It is noted at Paragraph 102. “Transport issues should be considered from the earliest stages of plan- making and development proposals, so that: Adopted South Cambridgeshire Local Plan (September 2018) a) the potential impacts of development on transport networks can be addressed; The South Cambridgeshire Local Plan was adopted on 27th September 2018 and sets out b) opportunities from existing or proposed transport infrastructure, and changing the planning policies and land allocations to guide the future development of the district transport technology and usage, are realised – for example in relation to the scale, location up to 2031. or density of development that can be accommodated; c) opportunities to promote walking, cycling and public transport use are identified and The adopted Local Plan (2018) replaces key documents of the Development Plan referred pursued; to within the original Design and Access Statement, namely the Core Strategy DPD, d) the environmental impacts of traffic and transport infrastructure can be identified, Development Control Policies DPD, Site Specific Policies DPD, The Local Plan 2004 ‘Saved’

16 WATERBEACH NEW TOWN, OUTLINE PLANNING APPLICATION - DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT Plan: Administrative Boundaries

Waterbeach Parish Council

South Cambridgeshire District Council

Legend

Site Boundary

District Council Boundary

Parish Council Boundary

N 0 5000m 17 Policy CNF6, and the previous Adopted Proposals Map. practice urban design principles, drawing on the traditions of fen-edge market towns, which encourages the high quality traditions and innovation that are characteristic of the Policy S/1 provides the Vision for the adopted Local Plan, which emphasises pursuit of Cambridge Sub-Region.” quality of life and sustainable economic growth. To secure this Vision, six objectives are set out through Policy S/2 (Objectives of the Local Plan), which include (inter alia): (3.) It will be developed to maintain the identity of Waterbeach as a village close to the new town. Appropriate integration should be secured by the provision of suitable links to “d. To deliver new developments that are high quality and well-designed with distinctive enable the residents of Waterbeach village to have convenient access to the services and character that reflects their location, and which responds robustly to the challenges of facilities in the new town but with limited and controlled opportunities for direct road climate change. access from the wider new town to Waterbeach with emphasis on connections by public transport, cycle and on foot. f. To maximise potential for journeys to be undertaken by sustainable modes of transport including walking, cycling, bus and train.” (4.) It will deliver an example of excellence in sustainable development and healthier living, which will make a significant contribution to the long term development needs of the The strategy for development within the district over the plan period is set out under Cambridge area. It will deliver high quality public transport links to Cambridge, including a Policy S/6 (The Development Strategy to 2031). relocated railway station, to enable a high modal share of travel by means other than the car.” Three new strategic scale allocations are proposed for housing-led development with associated employment and supporting services and facilities to meet the majority of the While it is expected that All built development will be provided within the Major additional development needs to 2031 and beyond. This includes a “new town north of Development Site. Policy SS/6 confirms that (7.) “Land outside the Major Development Site Waterbeach for 8,000 to 9,000 homes”. can provide other associated uses and mitigation including drainage, habitat compensation and informal open space.” Policy SS/6 (Waterbeach New Town) relates to the strategic site allocation for the proposed new settlement at Waterbeach. Waterbeach New Town Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) The SPD will provide detailed guidance about how the new settlement should be designed, Policy SS/6 includes provision for approximately 8,000 to 9,000 dwellings and requires the developed and delivered in accordance with the adopted Local Plan policy SS/6, with an preparation of a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) which will follow a design-led emphasis on ensuring comprehensive development across the site as a whole. It will set approach and include a spatial framework diagram that is to have regard to a range of out key fixes, principles and mechanisms to guide the development to ensure creation of a factors, including the quantum, location and distribution of development in the town, and successful place. maintaining an appropriate setting for Denny Abbey. An addendum to this Design and Access Statement has been submitted alongside the It is required (2.) that “The New Town will be a sustainable and vibrant new community planning application which provides a commentary on consistency with the SPD. that is inclusive and diverse with its own distinctive local identity which is founded on best

18 WATERBEACH NEW TOWN, OUTLINE PLANNING APPLICATION - DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT Plan: Local Policy Context © CROWN COPYRIGHT AND DATABASE RIGHTS 2015 ORDNANCE SURVEY 0100031673 SURVEY 2015 ORDNANCE RIGHTS DATABASE AND COPYRIGHT © CROWN

Application Boundary

ArtboardLegend 13

PolicyStrategic SS/5 Strategic Site Boundary Site Boundary

MajorMajor Development Development Site Boundary Site

Main modification: Amend Major BoundariesDevelopment taken from Site Boundary South Cambridgeshire Adopted Policies Map: Inset H. Waterbeach New N Town

19 The Application Site The application site comprises 231 ha of land between the ‘Fen Line’ railway that links The western boundary of the application site adjoins the former Royal Air Force Station Cambridge and King’s Lynn, and the Waterbeach Airfield and Barracks to the west. referred to as Waterbeach New Town West. Secretary of State for Defence and Urban and This eastern part of the proposed Waterbeach New Town site lies at the edge of what Civic submitted an Outline Planning Application in February 2017 for this western part of was a vast area of peat fen and is now primarily comprised of arable agricultural land the New Town. drained by a network of open channels and ditches along field boundaries. The site is predominantly flat with a peninsula of slightly higher ground running between the village Adjoining the southern site boundary is an existing area of housing, formerly associated and Denny Abbey with the lower land to the east. Long range views to the north and east with the barracks but since converted for the open market and now forms part of are possible from within the site including views to Ely Cathedral. Waterbeach Village. The southern site boundary extends to Bannold Drove and Cody Road, which are both public highways. Cody Road provides access to existing dwellings to the An Agricultural Land Survey has confirmed the Site to comprise a mixture of Grade 2, south of the Site. 3a and 3b land. Fields are bordered by limited and intermittent vegetation in the form of hedgerows, individual trees and tree belts along drainage ditches. There is a single Land outside the boundary of the Site to the north is comprised of arable farmland, agricultural barn located within the Site along the western Site boundary. It is believed this similar in character to the Site itself. Within this area, located to the north-west of the has been derelict for some time. The existing Anglian Water Waterbeach Water Recycling Site boundary is the complex of medieval monastic buildings, earthworks and deposits at Centre (WRC) is located within the Site to the south-west. Denny Abbey.

Bannold Drove is an agricultural access track and ‘Byway Open to All Traffic’ which crosses The landscape character of the land to the east of the Site and the Fen Line railway is the Site south to north prior to turning east onto Cross Drove to the northeast of the Site. largely characterised by a series of arable fields within a geometric field pattern formed This is a significant landscape and cultural feature of the site which is lined with sporadic by a sequence of regimented drainage ditches and vegetated field boundaries. Combined tree planning and drainage ditches including the Waterbeach Level Internal Drainage with vegetation found along local roads, Public Rights of Way, and surrounding local Board (IDB) watercourse. The IDB watercourse discharges into the River Cam via Bottisham dwellings; vegetation in the wider landscape merges together to produce a perceptibly Lock Pumping Station (approximately 600m south-east of the site boundary) and Cam more densely tree-covered horizon. Immediately to the east of the site boundary and Pumping Station (approximately 4.5km north-east of the site boundary). either side of the railway line there is a small group of lakes within woodland planting which are accessible via Long Drove. The A10, extending north-eastwards from Cambridge to Ely, King’s Lynn and the wider rural hinterland, lies approximately 1.5km to the west of the Site. The Fen Line railway, connecting Cambridge to the south with King’s Lynn to the north via intermediate stations, runs along the eastern boundary of the Site.

20 WATERBEACH NEW TOWN, OUTLINE PLANNING APPLICATION - DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT Existing geometric field pattern with open drainage ditches

Bannold Drove View of Ely Cathedral from within the site

Existing linear drainage ditches Existing barn on site

WATERBEACH NEW TOWN, OUTLINE PLANNING APPLICATION - DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT 21 Local Geographic Context

Waterbeach Village Waterbeach Village lies immediately to the south of the boundary for the New Town. It is facilities, including pubs, guest house, post office, convenience stores, small businesses, a relatively large village with a Parish population of approximately 5,000 people according and takeaways are located here. The village green is well enclosed by surrounding to the 2011 Census. The origins of the village can be traced back to the Romans, with buildings and is an attractive feature of the village. The existing Waterbeach railway station the settlement positioned on the strategic Car Dyke waterway. The village is historically is located at the south eastern edge of the village. The southern extent of the village is structured around the linear high street and village green to the south. Waterbeach has marked by St John the Evangelist Church which is a distinctive landmark within the village. grown significantly post Second World War with housing development predominantly Waterbeach Baptist Church is also located at the southern end of the Village Green. Land to the north of the historic core towards the former RAF base and to the east. Housing to the south, east and west of the village is located within the Cambridge Green Belt which growth has continued into the 21st century with population increasing by 13% between has constrained growth on those sides. 2001 and 2011. Further housing development is permitted and partially underway to the north of Bannold Road. The Village has two access points to the A10 at Denny End Road and Car Dyke Road. The High Street runs north south between these two access points. Station Road links the The centre of the village is marked by the village green. A number of established local village centre to the church and train station and continues onto Clayhithe Road which

1888 1958 1975 CURRENT (INC. INFILL SITES).

22 WATERBEACH NEW TOWN, OUTLINE PLANNING APPLICATION - DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT I

Plan: Local Geographic Context.

Legend

J

A Village green 0100031673 SURVEY 2015 ORDNANCE RIGHTS DATABASE AND COPYRIGHT © CROWN

B Waterbeach Recreational Ground

‘Fenline’ Railway line C Waterbeach Community Primary School

Cody Rd D Permitted and partially complete housing sites

Denny End Rd D E St John the Evangelist Church F

F Waterbeach Baptist Church C G Rosalind Franklin House

High St A10 H River Cam

Way La I Soldiers Hill A E J Car Dyke G Station Rd D K Existing railway station N B Car Dyke Rd K

Clayhithe Rd 23 leads to the River Cam and onto Horningsea. Bannold Road leads east from the High Street visible on site including the runway, lake, golf course, Oak, Poplar and Lime woodland across the railway and onto Bottisham Locks. plantations, the control tower, water tower, memorial garden, hangars and storage buildings, accommodation blocks and parade ground. The grid layout and landscape The gradual growth of the village to the north and the release of former barracks housing structure contribute a distinctive character to the area which extends into the northern to the open market continues to place an increasing number of residents further from the areas of the village. established village centre. This growth also means the built form of the village extends continuously to the southern boundary of the New Town. Despite this, the village retains a In addition to the military aspects of the site a number of historic features pre-dating the strong identity mainly focussed around the historic core of the village and it’s relationship use as an airfield remain including Car Dyke, Soldiers Hill and Causeways leading from the with the former RAF base. Abbey. To the north of the airfield and south of Denny Abbey is an area of arable fields, a former bomb store and 19th century well-head. The well-head is located along the route of the historic causeway linking Denny Abbey and Waterbeach. Denny End Road Denny End Road Industrial Park and Cambridge Innovation Park sit at the northern end Waterbeach New Town West was subject to an outline planning application in February of the village close to the access point off the A10 and are locally important employment 2017. That application is for up to 6,500 dwellings (including up to 600 residential sites. The innovation Park provides small and medium businesses with professional institutional units), business, retail, community, leisure and sports uses; a hotel; new office space, laboratories and workshops. Additional space at Blenheim House is recently primary and secondary schools; green open spaces including parks, ecological areas and complete and the Innovation Park website states that plans are in place for a further new woodlands and principal new accesses from the A10 (Planning Application reference building offering 60,000sqft. S-0559-17-OL).

Denny Abbey The remnant features of this part of the allocation have been used to guide the form and Denny Abbey is a complex of medieval monastic buildings, earthworks and deposits. character of development proposals. For example retaining the Lake as a central feature The core buildings are Listed and the pasture fields surrounding the abbey, including of the New Town, using the alignment of the runway for the urban form and linear park the surviving historic earthworks, are protected as a Scheduled Monument. The Abbey and retaining blocks of woodland. Some of the existing buildings on site have already been is located at the northern end of the New Town within the site allocation. The site is brought back into use as community buildings such as the Sports Hall and Community currently used by the Farmland Museum which is accessible to the public partially via the Building. A10. Extending out of the southern boundaries of the Abbey are the partial remains of two raised causeways which historically would have formed routes between Denny Abbey and Waterbeach Village and onto Cambridge through the fenland landscape. Cambridge Research Park Located to the north west of the New Town site on the opposite side of the A10 In 2013 LDA Design produced a report called ‘Denny Abbey and its Setting: Analysis and Cambridge Research Park comprises approximately 31,000sqm employment space. A Recommendations for the Waterbeach New Town’. This has been a key document in planning application made for the Research Park in 2012 sought greater flexibility on uses understanding the significance of the Abbey in the context of planning for the New Town and building design to attract occupiers for the remaining 38,000sqm of space still to and has guided an appropriate design response to its setting. be taken up. The Research Park is based a round a strong landscape framework of large lakes and wetland planting. The form and access of the park from the A10 means that it is Waterbeach New Town West currently reliant on car based travel. Formerly a Royal Air Force station built on the northern edge of the village in 1940, the Barracks closed in March 2013. Many of the features associated with its former use remain

24 WATERBEACH NEW TOWN, OUTLINE PLANNING APPLICATION - DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT Plan: Local Geographic Context.

Legend

A Denny Abbey

B Existing Waterbeach railway station D

C River Cam

D Wicken Fen J

E Former RAF base (Waterbeach New A

K 0100031673 SURVEY 2015 ORDNANCE RIGHTS DATABASE AND COPYRIGHT © CROWN Town West) I

F Bottisham Locks Cottenham

G Denny End Road Industrial Park M N E H Cambridge Innovation Park C H I Cambridge Research Park G L F J Waste Management Park Waterbeach Landbeach B K ‘Fenline’ Railway line

L Waterbeach Community Primary A10 School

M Cottenham Village School Histon

N Centre School Milton

N Horningsea Lode

A14 25 CAMBRIDGE Road, this surgery provides family health care serving Waterbeach as well as Landbeach, Waste Management Park Horningsea, Clayhithe, Chittering and Milton. There is also a pharmacy in the village. Located approximately 1km further north along the A10 the facility is operated by Amey There are no dental surgeries in Waterbeach the nearest being the two practices in Histon Cespa for the collection and sorting of waste from local businesses and for Cambridgeshire approximately 8km away. There are no emergency services in Waterbeach village, the County Council. A planning application for an energy from waste facility in this location nearest police station is Histon and the nearest Fire Station is in Cambridge at Parkside. is currently under consideration. This would comprise a conventional combustion plant Addenbrookes in Cambridge is the closest A&E department approximately 12km away. based around a main building. The stack, located adjacent to the western elevation would be around 80m high. Community and leisure space Land to the East The main community meeting space within the Village are provided at St John’s Church To the east of the site boundary and Fen Line railway, the landscape is largely characterised Community Room, Tillage Hall, Denson Close Centre and the Salvation Army on Station by flat, low lying arable fields with a geometric field pattern formed of open drainage Road. There is also a Community Building and Sports Hall open to the public in the former channels and vegetated boundaries. Access into this landscape is limited by the railway RAF Barracks. Waterbeach Recreational Ground provides 2 junior and 2 senior football line and the River Cam. Other routes are typically long, straight, narrow tracks referred to pitches, a cricket square, bowls green, 3 tennis courts, a multi-use games area and a skate as Droves, which serve the farms and villages. The Fen Rivers Way long distance footpath park. A library is available at the Library Access Point within Waterbeach Community follows the path of the River Cam, approximately 500m from the Site. Wicken Fen is a Primary School. SSSI, National Nature Reserve and Ramsar Site and is part of an ambitious landscape-scale conservation project located to the north east of the site. Walking or cycling distance along existing routes to Wicken Fen is approximately 13 - 14.5km. The Cam Washes SSSI is Masterplan Opportunities located 2 km north-east of the Site. • Explore development form which respects the distinct character and identity of Waterbeach Village. • Provide new community and commercial centres as part of the new town to complement the existing Village centre. Community Facilities • Provide new community facilities including schools and healthcare that can benefit both existing and incoming residents. Education • Provide employment space that complements the existing employment parks around The nearest primary school is Waterbeach Community Primary School located between the site, exploring provision of a different type of floorspace that is integrated with the High Street and Way Lane centrally within the existing village. It is understood that the other uses as part of the new town. school has some potential to expand which is being explored by the County Council. The capacity of the school is 390, and roll of 337 (in Jan 2016). The nearest secondary school to the site is Cottenham Village School located approximately 4 miles to the west of the existing village. There is also a Special School in Cottenham called the Centre School. Post 16 education is primarily provided further afield at Cambridge schools, Impington Village College and West Anglia College.

Health and emergency services There is an existing medical surgery in Waterbeach at Rosalind Franklin House on Bannold

26 WATERBEACH NEW TOWN, OUTLINE PLANNING APPLICATION - DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT Waterbeach Village Green St John the Evangelist Church Waterbeach Village Green

Waterbeach Village Waterbeach Village former barracks housing Waterbeach Village

Denny Abbey modern housing in Waterbeach Village Cambridge Research Park

WATERBEACH NEW TOWN, OUTLINE PLANNING APPLICATION - DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT 27 Access & Movement: Policy Overview

There have been a number of local and National Planning Policy changes relevant to • Ensure improvements can be undertaken within the transport network that cost transport since the submission of the outline planning application in summer 2018. effectively limit the significant impacts of the development.

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) 2019 The NPPF notes that developments should be located and designed where practical to, NPPF 2019 chapter 9 relates to sustainable transport. The original WNTE planning amongst others: application was prepared with reference to NPPF2012 and the principles set out within the new NPPF 2019 chapter 9 remain consistent with the sentiments of NPPF2012 chapter 4. • Give priority to pedestrians and cycle movements, and have access to high quality Therefore, in relation to policy compliance within the NPPF, the transport context remains transport initiatives; as previously assessed. • Create safe and secure layouts which minimise conflicts between traffic and cyclists or pedestrians; and National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) 2012 • Incorporate facilities for charging plug-in and other ultra-low emission vehicles. The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF, 2012) sets out the Government’s vision for delivering sustainable development. The NPPF supports the provision of Travel Plans to manage demand and the provision of sustainable facilities on site to reduce the need to travel where practical. The framework introduces a presumption in favour of sustainable development and lists transport policy objectives as being to: Minimising journey lengths is a key policy aim set out in the NPPF, and it notes that, for large scale residential developments, a mix of uses should be promoted so that there • “facilitate sustainable development and its contribution to wider sustainability and are opportunities to undertake day-to-day activities, including work, within the site. This health objectives” (para 29); includes locating key facilities such as primary schools and local shops within walking • “support reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and congestion, and support a distance of most properties. pattern of development which facilitates the use of sustainable modes of transport” (para 30); and With regards to parking standards, the NPPF states that local planning authorities should • “develop strategies for the provision of viable infrastructure necessary to support take account of: sustainable development” (para 31). • The accessibility of the development; The NPPF states that all developments that generate significant amounts of movement • The type, mix and use of development; should: • The availability of and opportunities for public transport; • Local car ownership levels; and • Prioritise opportunities for sustainable travel to reduce the need for major transport • An overall need to reduce the use of high-emission vehicles. infrastructure; • Ensure safe and suitable access to the site can be achieved for all users; and

28 WATERBEACH NEW TOWN, OUTLINE PLANNING APPLICATION - DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT Ely To Cambridge A10 Corridor Study living, which will make a significant contribution to the long term development needs A study investigating improvements to the A10 corridor between Cambridge and Ely, of the Cambridge area. It will deliver high quality public transport links to Cambridge, commissioned by the Greater Cambridge Partnership was published in January 2018 with including a relocated railway station, to enable a high modal share of travel by means Strand 2 published in February 2018. The report recommends mitigation through: other than the car.’ Section 11 also requires the creation of a comprehensive movement network including • Policy, planning and regulation which includes a demand management approach inter-alia: for development though minimising external vehicular trips, providing lower than • Significant improvements in Public Transport, including a relocated Waterbeach station traditional parking levels, promoting site-wide car parking management and promoting with appropriate access arrangements by all modes to serve the village and the new non-car modes. town; and Provision of a Park and Ride site on the A10 to intercept traffic from the north of Waterbeach, served by a new segregated Bus link to Cambridge; • Delivery of multi-modal “quick wins” – such as early implementation of cycle measures, • Provision of a network of attractive, direct, safe and convenient walking and cycling the relocation of Waterbeach rail station, park and ride provision at Waterbeach new routes linking homes to public transport and key facilities. town and progression of a segregated public transport corridor between Waterbeach • Provision of direct, segregated high quality pedestrian and cycle links to north and Cambridge Northern Fringe; and Cambridge, surrounding villages and nearby existing facilities such as the Cambridge Research Park; • Longer term major highway interventions including highway capacity improvements • A Smarter Choices package including residential, school and workplace travel planning. between Cambridge and Ely, targeted junction improvements and discouraging the use • Primary road access from the A10 with additional capacity to meet the forecast road of parallel routes including the B1049 and B1047 are recommended. traffic generation of the new town, particularly on the A10 and at the junction with the A14; South Cambridgeshire Local Plan, 2018 • Measures to mitigate the traffic impact of the new town on surrounding villages Policy SS/6 of the of the South Cambridgeshire Local Plan which was adopted on the 27th including Waterbeach, Landbeach, Horningsea, Fen Ditton and Milton; September 2018 relates specifically to the strategic development site at Waterbeach New • A review of the access arrangements to Denny Abbey and the Farmland Museum. Town and includes specific references to transport, accessibility and movement in sections 3 and 4 as follows: Section 17 of policy SS/6 also states that an SPD will be prepared for the site to provide • ‘3. …Appropriate integration should be secured by the provision of suitable links to further detailed guidance on the implementation of policy SS/6. enable the residents of Waterbeach village to have convenient access to the services and facilities in the new town but with limited and controlled opportunities for direct Transport Strategy For Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire (Tscsc) road access from the wider new town to Waterbeach with emphasis on connections by The Transport Strategy for Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire was adopted by public transport, cycle and on foot.’ Cambridgeshire County Council in March 2014 and it ensures that the Councils work together to plan for sustainable growth and continued economic prosperity. The plan • ‘4. It will deliver an example of excellence in sustainable development and healthier provides a detailed policy framework and a programme for transport schemes across both

29 districts aimed at addressing current problems. Cambridgeshire Green Infrastructure Strategy (2011) The Cambridgeshire Green Infrastructure Strategy sets out to encourage a consistent The overall plan vision is to create a sustainable, efficient and accessible transport system approach amongst planners for the provision of Green infrastructure within to support Cambridge City, major employment hubs, villages and key centres. In doing Cambridgeshire. The Strategy outlines the benefits that provision of green infrastructure so the plan covers all modes of transport and takes account of forecast employment and can have as well as identify the opportunities within set target areas to inform future housing growth up to 2031. This includes Local Plan growth at Waterbeach New Town. development.

This document is consistent with the Cambridgeshire Local Transport Plan 2011-26 and it The strategy specifically highlights the current North Cambridge Heritage Trail project, supports both Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire Local Plans. which includes Worts Meadow, Landbeach Roman sites, Carr Dyke and Waterbeach Abbey and is part of Target Area 6.3 – Cambridge. The plan contains a number of specific policies which are relevant to the proposed development at Waterbeach. These are: In respect to transport, the strategy sets out the following opportunities to inform future project development. Policy TSCSC 3: Catering for travel demand in South Cambridgeshire • This policy states that as existing transport networks from South Cambridgeshire into Green Infrastructure Gateways Cambridge are constrained, passenger transport services on main radial corridors will • The growth areas provide opportunities for enhanced linkages between the City, the be used for part of all of more trips to Cambridge and to other key destinations. It also surrounding countryside, the navigable river and Green Infrastructure sites. states that more people will walk and cycle to access services and that more people will car share. Publicly Accessible Open Space • The provision of open space and linkages to the strategic Green Infrastructure network Policy TSCSC 4: National networks: trunk roads, motorways and rail and Public Rights of Way forms one of the key elements of the growth agenda for • National improvements to strategic transport infrastructure must take account of local Cambridge. Significant levels of high quality open space are required by planning circumstances, opportunities and impacts e.g. changes to national important road and policies. These open spaces must link well with the surrounding built-up area. rail routes. Rights of Way Policy TSCSC 7: Supporting sustainable growth • By ensuring that all communities have access to sustainable modes of movement • Changes to the transport network should support sustainable travel modes. and enhanced links to the wider countryside as required by the plans for the major developments to provide for countryside recreation Policy TSCSC 12: Encouraging cycling and walking • This policy states that all new developments must provide safe and convenient pedestrian and cycle improvements.

30 WATERBEACH NEW TOWN, OUTLINE PLANNING APPLICATION - DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT Greater Cambridge Partnership Greenways

The Waterbeach Greenway is one route within a wider and developing sustainable travel network that is being created by the Greater Cambridge Partnership. Since the submission of the planning application the Greater Cambridge Partnership Cottenham (GCP) have consulted on preferred option(s) for Waterbeach New the Waterbeach Greenway. The proposed route Town to the south of Waterbeach remains consistent with the assumed routing within the original WNTE outline planning application. Relocated Station

Waterbeach Landbeach

A10

Histon

Milton

Horningsea Lode Plan: Waterbeach Greenways routes being con- A14 sulted on. CAMBRIDGE N

31 Waterbeach New Town SPD The Draft Waterbeach New Town Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) document has In response to consultation feedback, the proposed modifications to the SPD were been developed in accordance with Policy SS/6 of the adopted Local Plan and published for published and considered at the SCDC Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 22 January consultation prior to adoption since the planning application was submitted. 2019. This gave rise to the following modifications relevant to transport: In relation access and movement the SPD defines a Primary Movement network and key • Bannold Drove and Cross Drove recognised as existing access points guiding principles for the Waterbeach New Town development’s to follow, with appropriate • The two primary routes within the site will create a loop around the new town and and timely provision of supporting transport infrastructure: connect directly to the relocated railway station on the eastern side of the town. In • The SPD has a clear vision to create a well connected place which is easy to move the early stages of the new town a north – south primary route will form a junction around in an environment where active travel is the norm. It is clear that cycle provision at the town centre but will later be closed to north-south vehicular traffic (except for is expected early in the development of the new town. public transport) to prioritise cycling and walking within the new town. The southern • Construction Methods requires construction traffic to be routed to avoid roads passing arm of this junction will provide the public transport / pedestrian / cycle connection to through villages, Waterbeach village’. • Two Park and Ride facilities have been identified in the SPD, one located adjacent to • To restrict through vehicle movements to sustainable modes only as the town centre the A10 and the other adjacent to the relocated railway station. Villagers will be able develops movements north through/around the town centre will be restricted to to access either through a network of direct walking and cycling routes. In addition, public transport, cycle and pedestrian movements only. The timing of this change to be the new town will be served by high quality public transport, and the SPD states that determined in accordance with a transport management scheme at key phase approval routes should serve the town as well as connecting with Waterbeach village. This will for the town centre development. provide existing residents with access to improved and direct public transport services • The development of the new town provides an opportunity to connect and enhance compared to those that currently exist. the existing rights of way network that has been hindered by the presence of • The SPD is clear that the new and relocated railway station should be delivered in the restricted MOD land for many decades. Providing improved non-motorised user early stages of the development of the new town to help ensure the availability of (NMU) infrastructure also encourages healthy lifestyles, in line with national and local sustainable travel choices. It is the subject of a separate planning process and has now policies on health and well-being. The development should not only protect existing received planning permission. NMU highways (footpaths, bridleways, cycle ways etc.) but should enhance them • Guiding Principle 6 seeks to minimise impact on the surrounding highway network, where possible. This should include an aspiration to not only improve NMU movement including the A10. A multi modal study for the A10 corridor has recommended a (including pedestrians, equestrians and cyclists) within the urban area not also to package of measures to accommodate the transport needs of the new town, including facilitate easy and convenient access into the countryside. upgrading the capacity of the A10 and measures to discourage through traffic in local • Development proposals will be required to create a network of routes suitable for all villages. The Infrastructure Delivery Plan identifies short term improvements to the A10 non-motorised users including horse riders across the site. junctions and wider capacity improvements, with timing of delivery to be determined through the Transport Assessment. It also includes traffic calming both within the An addendum to this Design and Access Statement has been submitted alongside the village (to be agreed with the Parish Council) and in nearby villages. planning application which provides a commentary on consistency with the SPD.

32 WATERBEACH NEW TOWN, OUTLINE PLANNING APPLICATION - DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT Combined Authority Mayoral Interim Transport Strategy Since the planning application was submitted, the Cambridgeshire Local Transport Plan and Transport Strategy for Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire (TSCSC) have also been replaced by the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority Mayoral Interim Transport Strategy.

The key points highlighted in the Mayoral Interim Transport strategy relate to door-to-door transport solutions, healthy and sustainable travel, with ambitious aspirations for achieving a high quality and joined up public transport network.

The Mayoral Transport Strategy also includes for a new Cambridge Autonomous Metro (CAM) system to be implemented with a potential future link to Waterbeach New Town. The Proposed Development has been designed in accordance with these principles and passive provision has been achieved within the original and revised masterplan framework to allow for future access by CAM. The provision of walkable neighbourhoods and a relocated rail station at the heart of the Proposed Development are also supportive of the Mayor’s vision for an integrated an accessible public transport network.

DFT Major Road Network Proposals In Autumn 2018 the Department for Transport (DfT) published a proposal for the creation of a new Major Road Network (MRN) which offers additional potential opportunities for funding of schemes affecting key principal strategic routes which are not part of the Strategic Road Network (SRN).

DfT published an indicative map showing the potential links to be included in the MRN. In the vicinity of Waterbeach this included the A10, A142 and A141 routes.

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