Key Points
- Residents, businesses, and community groups across Greater Cambridge are urged to submit views before the draft Local Plan consultation closes in under two weeks.
- The consultation covers the Greater Cambridge Local Plan, addressing housing, employment, transport, and environmental goals up to 2041.
- Key documents include the Integrated Development Strategy, Development Strategy Topic Paper, and supporting evidence base.
- Public feedback is sought on proposed sites for development, green belt policies, and sustainable growth measures.
- The plan aims for 44,000 new homes and 65,000 jobs by 2041, balancing growth with climate objectives.
- Submissions must be made via the online portal or email by the deadline, with no late entries accepted.
- Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service emphasises the importance of participation to shape the final plan.
- Consultation launched in October 2024 and runs until early February 2026.
Cambridge (Cambridge Tribune) January 20, 2026 – Residents, businesses, and community groups across Greater Cambridge are being urged to submit their views on the draft Local Plan with less than two weeks remaining before the consultation closes. The Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service has issued a final call for input to influence housing, employment, and sustainability policies up to 2041. Participation is critical as responses will directly shape the submitted plan.
What Is the Deadline for the Greater Cambridge Local Plan Consultation?
The consultation on the Greater Cambridge Local Plan closes on Friday, 6 February 2026, at 5 pm, as stated by the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service in their official update. With just under two weeks left, the service has launched a public campaign to maximise responses from residents, businesses, and community groups.
The service noted that submissions can be made through the dedicated online portal or by emailing consultation@greater.cambs.gov.uk.
“This is your final opportunity to have your say on the future of Greater Cambridge,”
the service announced in a press release covered by Cambridge News. No extensions will be granted, and late submissions cannot be considered under planning regulations.
Why Is Public Input Essential for the Draft Local Plan?
Public participation ensures the plan reflects community needs, according to planners. The draft Local Plan proposes ambitious growth, including 44,000 new homes and 65,000 new jobs by 2041, while tackling climate change and infrastructure pressures.
As reported by Dan Marner of Cambridge Independent, the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service urged:
“We want to hear from as many people as possible – your views will help us finalise a plan that works for everyone.”
The consultation focuses on the plan’s strategy, site allocations, and policies on green belt protection and sustainable transport.
What Key Documents Are Available for Review in the Consultation?
The consultation includes several core documents for review. These encompass the Draft Greater Cambridge Local Plan (2025-2041), the Integrated Development Strategy, and the Development Strategy Topic Paper.
The Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service listed additional materials such as the Sustainability Appraisal, Habitat Regulations Assessment, and Equality Impact Assessment. “All documents are accessible on our consultation portal,” the service confirmed in statements reported by BBC News. Over 1,000 pages of evidence base, including transport modelling and economic forecasts, support the proposals.
Which Development Sites Are Proposed in the Greater Cambridge Local Plan?
Proposed sites include allocations in Cambridge, South Cambridgeshire, and East Cambridgeshire, targeting urban extensions and infill developments. Key areas feature Trumpington Meadows expansion, Northstowe new town, and sites around Waterbeach.
As detailed by Lauren McGrath of Cambridge News, the plan identifies 44,000 homes across 80 potential sites, with 28 preferred options. Businesses are asked to comment on employment land at Cambridge Biomedical Campus and A14 corridor sites. Community groups can address green infrastructure and biodiversity net gain requirements.
How Does the Local Plan Address Housing and Employment Growth?
The plan forecasts delivering 1,700 homes annually alongside job creation in science, tech, and logistics sectors. It aligns with Cambridge’s status as a global innovation hub.
Planners emphasise brownfield prioritisation and high-density housing near transport links. “Growth must be sustainable,” stated the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service, as quoted by Ely Standard. Employment policies protect 300 hectares of existing sites while allocating 247 hectares new.
What Role Does Climate Change Play in the Greater Cambridge Plan?
Climate objectives are central, with policies for zero-carbon development and nature recovery. The plan commits to a 2041 carbon-neutral vision.
The Integrated Development Strategy integrates flood risk mitigation, active travel networks, and tree canopy targets. As reported by Alex Mansfield of Cambs Times, consultation questions probe support for green belt reviews to enable low-carbon growth.
Who Can Participate in the Greater Cambridge Consultation?
Eligibility is open to all residents, businesses, community groups, and statutory bodies in Greater Cambridge, comprising Cambridge City, South Cambridgeshire District, and parts of East Cambridgeshire.
The service encourages organisations to coordinate submissions. “Even if you’ve responded before, please submit again on the draft,” urged planners in a statement covered by Hunts Post. Online tools include interactive maps and question-specific forms.
What Happens After the Consultation Deadline?
Post-consultation, responses will be reviewed and summarised in a report to inform plan revisions. The final draft heads to an independent Planning Inspectorate examination in late 2026.
The Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service anticipates publishing a summary report by summer 2026. “Your input directly influences the Inspector’s recommendations,” the service noted, per Cambridge Independent coverage.
How Has the Community Responded So Far to the Local Plan?
Early feedback highlights concerns over infrastructure lag, traffic congestion, and affordable housing shortages. Over 5,000 comments were received in prior stages.
As reported by James Chapple of Local Government Chronicle, resident groups like Smarter Cambridge Transport advocate stronger public transport commitments. Business forums, including Cambridge Ahead, support growth but call for skills training investments.
What Is the Background of the Greater Cambridge Local Plan?
The plan updates the 2018 emerging Local Plan, responding to post-pandemic shifts and net-zero laws. It covers an area housing 180,000 people with rapid expansion pressures.
Development follows national targets under the Levelling Up Act. “This plan shapes Greater Cambridge for decades,” stated Councillor John Hipkin, Chair of the Joint Assembly, as quoted by BBC Radio Cambridgeshire.
Why Focus on Greater Cambridge for This Level of Growth?
Greater Cambridge drives UK innovation, contributing £10 billion annually to the economy. Housing the “Silicon Fen,” it requires planned expansion.
The plan balances Oxford-Cambridge Arc ambitions with local constraints like water scarcity. Planners cite government housing needs assessments mandating 44,000 units.
What Support Is Available for Making a Submission?
The service offers webinars, drop-in sessions, and a helpline. Virtual events ran weekly through January.
“Guidance notes and templates are provided,” confirmed the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service in updates reported by Royston Crow. Email support handles technical queries.
How Does This Fit into National Planning Reforms?
The Local Plan aligns with NPPF updates emphasising brownfield and beauty. It navigates posgate reforms on development speed.
Consultation complies with the 2024 Levelling Up Act timelines. “We’re ahead of many authorities,” noted officers in Cambridge News.
