Plans for a new 425-flat housing development in Cambridge have been approved by local councillors, featuring significantly more bicycle parking than car parking. The development, located at the Cambridge North Residential Quarter, will provide 711 bicycle spaces and 140 for visitors, alongside just 22 car parking bays.
Councillors from Cambridge City Council and South Cambridgeshire District Council's joint development committee gave the go-ahead for the project. Richard Thomas of property development firm Blocwork stated that the development offers an "exceptional opportunity" for residents to utilize public transport, walking, or cycling. He highlighted the site's proximity to Cambridge North train station and the Cambridgeshire Guided Busway.
However, the scheme has faced criticism, with opponents labeling it "divorced from reality" and questioning the practicality of such low car ownership, estimated to be around 5 percent for the development to function as intended. The current car ownership in Cambridge is estimated to be between 50 to 60 percent of the population. Conservative councillor Richard Williams described the plan as "bizarre" and "shocking," noting the lack of comparable developments elsewhere in the UK with such a low car parking ratio.
Concerns have also been raised by nearby residents and local officials. Jane Coston, a parish councillor for the village of Milton, expressed worry that residents might park their cars on Milton's streets, leading to discussions with the councils about deterrents. Tradespeople have also voiced difficulties operating in areas with limited parking, with some stating they no longer take jobs in Cambridge due to these restrictions.
Blocwork, in conjunction with Network Rail, residential landlord Grainger, and Platform4 Rail Regeneration, is behind the project. Construction is slated to begin next year, with completion expected by 2030. The development will offer a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom rental apartments, with 188 units designated as affordable housing. The site will also include retail spaces and green areas.
The 22 car parking bays will be situated at the perimeter of the development, with six reserved for disabled use. Developers are exploring the possibility of establishing a residents' car club. A separate proposal for a 600-space car park on the site is intended solely for commercial business users.
This development is part of the ongoing Cambridge North Masterplan, which already includes a hotel and commercial buildings. The project aligns with local and national planning policies that encourage active travel and sustainable, station-led housing. Developers emphasize the site's connectivity to public transport links.
Cambridge has seen other controversial transport-related schemes. Cambridge South station, which opened recently, provides 1,000 bicycle spaces but no car parking. The city also introduced England's first 'cycle street,' which faced scrutiny over accident statistics and cost justification. Additionally, a proposed congestion charge for vehicles was ultimately shelved due to public opposition. These initiatives reflect a broader debate in Cambridge between promoting sustainable transport and addressing concerns about car dependency.