MP backs bid to ditch new building phase
SOUTH Cambridgeshire MP Andrew Lansley claims there is a compelling case to refuse planning permission for extra houses at the new Cambourne super-village.
The Conservative MP is against the Cambourne Enhanced scheme which would see the number of homes rise beyond the agreed 3,300 limit to more than 5,000.Developers say it is a response to the Government's wish to see homes built more densely in new developments.
But Mr Lansley said the changes in design and character of Cambourne would be contrary to the basis on which hundreds of people have already bought properties in the new settlement.
He said the Deputy Prime Minister's statement concerning minimum densities for new developments could not be retrospective, and related to brownfield sites.
Mr Lansley was joined by Coun Daphne Spink, South Cambridgeshire District Council leader, and Coun Lister Wilson, Cambridgeshire County Council member for Gamlingay, at a recent public consultation exercise to voice his concerns.
Mr Lansley said he was also concerned the service levels and infrastructure would not be able to cope with an increased number of homes, and that the application was contrary to development plan policies.
He said: "These are a series of substantial objections which I have made clear to South Cambridgeshire District Council.
"They add up to a compelling case for refusal of the application."
Coun Spink said: "In my opinion we don't need any more houses in that area."
John Slater, spokesman for the Cambourne Consortium, said the proposed increase in the number of new homes at Cambourne has been "most carefully thought through and planned".
He added: "By increasing the density of the homes being built primarily within the future neighbourhood known as Upper Cambourne, the integrity of the original concept of Cambourne being three settlement areas separated by large areas of green open space, is maintained."
Mr Slater said the increase in population meant new and enlarged facilities for Cambourne would be needed.