Question 24. How important do you think continuing economic growth is for the next Local Plan?

Very important

Very important. Continued economic growth is vital for the next Local Plan in order ensuring that Greater Cambridge continues to be recognised as a centre for research and high technology employment, with the significant and varied employment opportunities that this creates for residents. The Mill Lane Site, Sawston is owned by Northwest Biotherapeutics (NW Bio), a biotechnology company developing novel immune therapies to treat cancer. NW Bio’s DCVax®-L immune therapy for Glioblastoma brain cancer is in the NIHR's Priority Portfolio and was the first product to receive PIM designation as a Promising Innovative Medicine by the Ministry of Health. NW Bio currently has offices in London but is planning to develop a head office in Sawston, where they are working together with Advent BioServices to develop the Vision Centre on the former Spicers site. Advent is one of only a small number of companies in the world that specializes in technology/process development and advanced manufacturing for cell and tissue therapies for cancer and other diseases. The Vision Centre is located across the A1301 (a 5 or 10 minute walk) from the proposed residential site on Mill Lane. The Vision Centre is an advanced manufacturing facility that will produce cell therapy products for the UK and for export to the European Union and worldwide. The development of the Vision Centre will involve the creation of up to 450 new high-value jobs across a wide range of skill levels in phases over the next few years. A key factor which will affect the pace at which personnel can be hired for these jobs will be the availability of housing nearby to the Vision Centre. A proportion of Vision Centre employees will have to live close to the site because producing and managing living cell products requires unpredictable and varied hours (e.g. when tissues are received from hospitals for processing at any time of the day or evening). The jobs at the Vision Centre will be for a range of employees, from school leavers through to PhD level, with a private apprenticeship programme also under development. This will result in increased employment and learning opportunities within Sawston and South Cambridgeshire as a whole which will have benefits for social inclusion. As a result of these requirements NW Bio are promoting the Mill Lane Site, Sawston for the development of up to 225 residential dwellings, some of which could provide the essential housing for key employees of the Vision Centre. The need that NW Bio have identified for adequate nearby housing for personnel who must be “on call” for the Vision Centre (similar to doctors being “on call” for a hospital), and the fact that this need will be a significant factor in the pace at which NW Bio and Advent BioServices can hire personnel and grow the operations in the Vision Centre, clearly highlight the intrinsic links that there are between economic and housing growth in Greater Cambridge.

Nothing chosen

5.1.1 It is essential to Greater Cambridge and the surrounding area as identified by CPIER (Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Independent Economic Review). As part of the devolution contract to Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is a commitment to doubling the economic output of the area (Gross Value Added) over 25 years. This is a challenging target and needs to be a factor at the heart of the Plan.

Very important

Very Important Cambridge has seen significant economic growth in the science, biotech and medical sectors. The creation of jobs has resulted in Gross Disposable Income per head growing by 11% between 2011 and 2016 in real terms. The contribution the area makes to the UK economy has been significant. However, growth in employment has not been matched by corresponding housebuilding or infrastructure. Thakeham support the Councils’ approach of significantly increasing housing supply to aid the recent and continuing economic growth and improve affordability across the district. In Thakeham’s view, it is vital that the Councils’ plan for sufficient housing numbers, in order to not hinder economic growth. In Thakeham’s view, the strategy for allocating new development should include planning for larger scale development through extensions to existing villages, which the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) states is the best way to achieve supply of large numbers of new homes (Paragraph 74). The allocation of larger developments adjacent to village settlements can deliver much-needed affordable housing, as well as access to employment, open space, and other community facilities in rural areas. This will enable the benefits of economic growth of the district to be felt by rural communities, allowing them to grow and thrive in accordance with Paragraph 78 of the NPPF. In addition, Thakeham support the provision of new modern flexible co-working space within any new developments, especially outside the centre of Cambridge, in order to promote economic growth, create new employment opportunities, and reduce the need to travel across the District to work. This will enable the benefits of economic growth of the District to be felt by rural communities, allowing them to grow and thrive in accordance with Paragraph 78 of the NPPF, as well as contribute towards the Councils’ wider net-zero carbon goals through reduced travel. The Land east of Long Road, Comberton could deliver new modern, flexible co-working space in the form of both homes that have been designed to allow working from home and new modern business/flexible co-working space for the wider community. The new co-working space could include an office rental space, such as a ‘WeWork’ style initiative, or through rental laboratory space, such as a ‘Biocity’ style concept for the medi-tech sector. This co-working space would be developed in consultation with the community, which could then be gifted to the community as a community asset. Please refer to the appended Vision Document titled 'Land east of Long Road, Comberton' produced by Thakeham

Very important

6.1 Cambridge is a prosperous city and acts as thriving hub for education, innovation, business and investment. The significant committed public and private investment and plans for further future investment in strategic infrastructure and employment growth in the Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire continues to reinforce the importance of the area to the East of England and indeed the United Kingdom. 6.2 The Greater Cambridge Local Plan (GCLP) comes forward in this context, accordingly, it is vital that the Plan works to proactively deliver and shape the opportunities on the horizon to the benefit of existing and future residents; and the environment. 6.3 By proactively assisting in the delivery of economic growth through the preparation of the GCLP, Councils and residents have the opportunity to ensure that the economic growth, and the associated housing growth, comes forward in sustainable locations and in a form which addresses the areas wider needs which include promoting health and wellbeing, biodiversity, great places and reducing climate change. 6.4 It is vital that the GCLP supports the economic growth of the area to fully realise the benefits of the investment in infrastructure and to ensure residents are able to live fulfilling lives where they have access to employment, high quality housing, recreation opportunities and green spaces.

Somewhat important

Following the signing of the City Deal in 2014, the growth agenda and economic direction for Greater Cambridge is confirmed. However, to ensure the Greater Cambridge area is able to meet the demands that will result, it is vital the necessary infrastructure is in place to support this economic strategy. To this end, whilst economic growth is important, equally so is the strategy for housing delivery (the number and where these are located).

Nothing chosen

5.1 As referred to in Section 2 of these representations, National Planning Policy confirms “Significant weight should be placed on the need to support economic growth and productivity, taking into account both local business needs and wider opportunities for development” (NPPF, paragraph 80). The approach taken should allow each area to build on its strengths, counter any weaknesses and address the challenges of the future. 5.2 Cambridge’s hi-technology clusters, particularly in AI, bio-tech and agri-tech are recognised in the UK Industrial Strategy as an essential element of the UK economy to support “…towns such as MK, Oxford and Cambridge (that) have been hot spots for job creation. We must promote growth through fostering clusters and connectivity across cities, towns and surrounding areas.” 5.3 Growth relies on increases in employment and productivity and the Cambridge and Peterborough Independent Economic Review (CPIER) emphasises the need for productivity growth in this region as employment rates are so high. Economic growth is therefore essential for the next Local Plan. As part of the devolution contract to Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is a commitment to doubling the economic output of the area (Gross Value Added) over 25 years. This is a challenging target and needs to factor at the heart of the Plan.

Nothing chosen

2.35. The Issues and Options report identifies at page 50 that the Greater Cambridge economy is of national importance. It is clear that Greater Cambridge has a crucial role to play in the Oxford to Cambridge Arc, the London-Stansted-Cambridge corridor; as well as the Cambridge – Norwich tech corridor. Supporting the continued growth of the economy is a crucial role for the emerging Local Plan. Planning for sufficient housing to support such economic growth is therefore also critical. 2.36. The ability for Greater Cambridge to provide economic growth, and therefore improvements in standards of living for those in the area, are highlighted thought the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Independent Economic Review (CPIER), September 2018. The CPIER indicates that employment growth has been faster than envisaged. The Councils should look to draw on this opportunity to deliver better lifestyles for all those living and working in the wider region, and in particular to deliver benefits across the communities of Greater Cambridge.

Nothing chosen

The Greater Cambridge economy, driven by its world leading hi-tech and life sciences cluster is of significant importance to the UK economy, with Cambridge lying at the centre of three economic growth corridors. In particular, Cambridge lies at the eastern end of the Oxford-Cambridge Arc which was recognized as ‘an area of significant economic strength and opportunity’ as part of the ‘Government ambition and joint declaration between Government and local partners’ in March 2019. It is therefore vital that the National significance of the Greater Cambridge economy is fully recognized by the two Councils and that its growth continues to be supported. Its success cannot and must not be taken for granted. The next Local Plan should therefore facilitate the continued growth and success of the Greater Cambridge economy and the continuing demand for modern, high quality employment premises in the Cambridge area. Such an approach would also be supported by the evidence provided by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Independent Economic Review (2018) for instance. The Local Plan should provide sufficient land and policy support for locally as well as regionally or internationally generated employment development to be located where residents and services can reach them sustainably and the culture of success can be nurtured.

Nothing chosen

4.35 Economic growth is a very important part of the next Local Plan. Whilst there is a focus on the strategic growth corridors and high tech business, it is essential that other types of industry are supported to ensure there is a diverse range of jobs available for local people that support the overall aims of sustainable growth. The Plan should therefore seek to encourage a range of employment opportunities in the rural area in sustainable locations. This approach to rural diversification is also supported by the NPPF and could decrease commuting. 4.36 The villages of Meldreth and Melbourn meet a variety of local needs, as well as providing valuable and varied employment. The land that is the subject of this representation provides the opportunity to ensure employment land is provided within the development that would support local firms and provide suitable affordable buildings for their needs. This would ensure employment retention and avoid businesses leaving the area and potentially increasing commuting out of the area.

Nothing chosen

4.34 Economic growth is a very important part of the next Local Plan. Whilst there is a focus on the strategic growth corridors and high tech business, it is essential that other types of industry are supported to ensure there is a diverse range of jobs available for local people that support the overall aims of sustainable growth. The Plan should therefore seek to encourage a range of employment opportunities in the rural area in sustainable locations. This approach to rural diversification is also supported by the NPPF and could decrease commuting. 4.35 The villages of Meldreth and Melbourn meet a variety of local needs, as well as providing valuable and varied employment. The land that is the subject of this representation provides the opportunity to ensure employment land is provided within the development that would support local firms and provide suitable affordable buildings for their needs. This would ensure employment retention and avoid businesses leaving the area and potentially increasing commuting out of the area.

Very important

Very important – Economic growth is one of the fundamental aims of the NPPF. Paragraph 8 states “An economic objective - help build a strong, responsive and competitive economy, by ensuring that sufficient land of the right types is available in the right places and at the right time to support growth, innovation and improved productivity; and by identifying and coordinating the provision of infrastructure;”. As outlined in the Cambridge and Peterborough Local Industrial Strategy (CP LIS), The Cambridgeshire (and Peterborough) economy outperformed the UK in overall growth since 2009 and growth in employment has significantly outpaced official figures. Greater Cambridge is at the centre of economic growth in the UK. Greater Cambridge is a key driver within a number of significant growth corridors including London-Stansted-Cambridge-Corridor, the Cambridge to Oxford Arc and the Norwich Tech Corridor whilst the national industrial strategy (2017) highlights the importance of Greater Cambridge and it research clusters. These all place an importance on Greater Cambridge and support further economic development in the region, along with required housing growth. Economic growth in general is therefore extremely important, however, these documents also place great importance on growth in particular areas, one of these key areas for growth is the AgriTech sector. Page 9 of the CP LIS outlines that it is the ambition to support further growth in pioneering research and development in plant science and precision agriculture. It states that the LIS will “offer new locations to support the development of innovation ecosystems. Agri-tech is one of the area’s strategic growth sectors which does not yet have central agglomerations which will be a key ingredient in its future success”. These documents show clear desire for further economic development and especially in the provision of facilities to support the AgriTech sector. The CP LIS is a material consideration when drafting the new Local Plan. Furthermore, post Brexit, it is imperative that all opportunities to promote economic growth are taken, particularly, where this can increase the competitiveness of the UK economy and stimulate job creation and skills development in an emerging sector, where there is fierce competition globally for investment.

Very important

Very important. The NPPF is clear that planning policies should create the conditions in which businesses can invest, expand and adapt and that significant weight should be placed on the need to support economic growth and productivity, taking into account both local business needs and wider opportunities for development. Paragraph 20 requires strategic policies to set out an overall strategy for the pattern and scale of development including employment development. Paragraph 81 expects planning policies to set out a clear economic vision and strategy which positively and proactively encourages sustainable economic growth, and to allocate sites to meet the anticipated need. The National Infrastructure Commission, the Cambridge and Peterborough Combined Authority and the Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough Enterprise Partnership acknowledge and support the economic growth potential of the Greater Cambridge area. The Cambridge and Peterborough Devolution Deal commits the authorities in the area to planning to double economic output by 2040. Greater Cambridge is situated within the Oxford to Cambridge Arc, which is an area of significant economic strength and opportunity and a key economic priority for the Government. Greater Cambridge is experiencing strong economic growth which is expected to continue into the future. The growth potential of the area is acknowledged at a national and regional level. There is already a commitment to substantially increase economic output. Therefore, it will be very important for the emerging GCLP to support economic growth in Greater Cambridge.

Nothing chosen

Given Cambridge’s central role in driving both the regional economy and in leading the UK’s competitive position in hi-tech industries, the role of economic growth must be integral to this Plan; for this reason, we include it in the ‘Big Themes’. We can also envisage that the role Cambridge can play in creating a dynamic cluster or clusters of innovation, could also play a major part in delivering the economic adaptations which support our response to Climate Change.

Nothing chosen

5.1 As referred to in Section 2 of these representations, National Planning Policy confirms “Significant weight should be placed on the need to support economic growth and productivity, taking into account both local business needs and wider opportunities for development” (NPPF, paragraph 80). The approach taken should allow each area to build on its strengths, counter any weaknesses and address the challenges of the future. 5.2 Cambridge’s hi-technology clusters, particularly in AI, bio-tech and agri-tech are recognised in the UK Industrial Strategy as an essential element of the UK economy to support “…towns such as MK, Oxford and Cambridge (that) have been hot spots for job creation. We must promote growth through fostering clusters and connectivity across cities, towns and surrounding areas.” 5.3 Growth relies on increases in employment and productivity and the Cambridge and Peterborough Independent Economic Review (CPIER) emphasises the need for productivity growth in this region as employment rates are so high. Economic growth is therefore essential for the next Local Plan. As part of the devolution contract to Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is a commitment to doubling the economic output of the area (Gross Value Added) over 25 years. This is a challenging target and needs to factor at the heart of the Plan.

Nothing chosen

5.1 As referred to in Section 2 of these representations, National Planning Policy confirms “Significant weight should be placed on the need to support economic growth and productivity, taking into account both local business needs and wider opportunities for development” (NPPF, paragraph 80). The approach taken should allow each area to build on its strengths, counter any weaknesses and address the challenges of the future. 5.2 Cambridge’s hi-technology clusters, particularly in AI, bio-tech and agri-tech are recognised in the UK Industrial Strategy as an essential element of the UK economy to support “…towns such as MK, Oxford and Cambridge (that) have been hot spots for job creation. We must promote growth through fostering clusters and connectivity across cities, towns and surrounding areas.” 5.3 Growth relies on increases in employment and productivity and the Cambridge and Peterborough Independent Economic Review (CPIER) emphasises the need for productivity growth in this region as employment rates are so high. Economic growth is therefore essential for the next Local Plan. As part of the devolution contract to Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is a commitment to doubling the economic output of the area (Gross Value Added) over 25 years. This is a challenging target and needs to factor at the heart of the Plan. 5.4 With the relocation of Papworth Hospital to Cambridge, the future economic strength of Papworth is uncertain. To redress the balance between new housing and commercial development, the expansion of Papworth Business Park will provide more local employment opportunities and should be safeguarded as part of the spatial strategy for Papworth. Extending the village westwards to provide more housing will also enable a balanced distribution of growth in the village; linking homes with jobs.

Nothing chosen

3.93 The CPIER notes that the wider Cambridge region is committed to doubling its economic output over the next 25 years which is a strategy that Grosvenor and USS would endorse. On this basis, continuing economic growth should be captured and addressed in the next Plan. However, this economic growth should be captured in an appropriate spatial strategy which balances employment growth with housing development. Cambridge already has a significant range of key employment areas, many of them in South Cambridge. Many of those employment areas have expansion plans and therefore it is the sustainable option to direct housing development in close proximity to them. The location of new employment opportunities and housing needs need to be considered in the context of their relationship to sustainable transport links.

Nothing chosen

3.93 The CPIER notes that the wider Cambridge region is committed to doubling its economic output over the next 25 years which is a strategy that Grosvenor and USS would endorse. On this basis, continuing economic growth should be captured and addressed in the next Plan. However, this economic growth should be captured in an appropriate spatial strategy which balances employment growth with housing development. Cambridge already has a significant range of key employment areas, many of them in South Cambridge. Many of those employment areas have expansion plans and therefore it is the sustainable option to direct housing development in close proximity to them. The location of new employment opportunities and housing needs need to be considered in the context of their relationship to sustainable transport links.

Nothing chosen

Recent high-profile anaylsis reported Cambridge as the most unequal city in the UK (on a background of growing inequality between the richest and poorest in the country as a whole). Socioeconomic inequalities have a profound effect on public health - the poorest 10% of people in the UK have a life expectancy of 79 years (spending 52 years in good health), compared to the richest 10% who have a life expectancy of 86 years (spending 70 years in good health) - with those those in poverty tending to have shorter lives, spending more of it in poorer health compared to more affluent people (The Health Foundation, 2019). We recognise the value in aspiring to grow the local economy. However, for economic growth to be fair and sustainable, steps must also be taken to try and concurrently reduce inequalities in our area. The local plan needs to include policies to address economic inequalities by offering employment at all levels of skills, however there are some employment use classes which may be inappropriate in certain locations, we would strongly encourage the local plan to include a policy restricting A5 uses. in order for employment to be sustainable it needs to be located near housing and accessible by active travel

Nothing chosen

The CPIER notes that the wider Cambridge region is committed to doubling its economic output over the next 25 years. On this basis, continuing economic growth should be captured and addressed in the next Plan. However, this economic growth needs to be captured in an appropriate spatial strategy which balances employment growth with housing development. Cambridge already has a significant range of key employment areas, many of them in South Cambridge. Many of those employment areas have expansion plans and therefore it is important to direct housing development in close proximity to them. The location of new employment opportunities and housing needs need to be considered in the context of their relationship to sustainable transport links. Whittlesford is in proximity to the Wellcome Genome Campus at Hinxton, which apart from being an existing major employer has proposals for substantial expansion. The Campus currently employs approximately 2,600 staff which with the expansion plans will increase to 6,800 people. Although the proposals include up to 1,500 new homes specifically for the Campus workers, the overall increase in workforce and indirect jobs created will require a significant additional number of new homes within convenient travelling times. The Wellcome Genome proposals also include a package of transport measures and increased sustainable connectivity to Whittlesford Parkway. Additionally, as referred to on the attached boards and referred to in response to Q2, Whittlesford is located in the epicentre of employment centres and potential growth areas as shown on Fig.4, with access by rail to the employment in and around the City.

Nothing chosen

Summary: The National Planning Policy Framework 2019 states that significant weight should be placed on the need to support economic growth and productivity, taking into account both local business needs and wider opportunities for development (NPPF, paragraph 80). It also focuses on the need to support a prosperous rural economy Full text : The National Planning Policy Framework 2019 states that significant weight should be placed on the need to support economic growth and productivity, taking into account both local business needs and wider opportunities for development (NPPF, paragraph 80). It also focuses on the need to support a prosperous rural economy. The National Planning Policy Framework (2019) seeks to support a prosperous rural economy. Paragraph 83 (limb a) of the NPPF states that that planning policies and decisions should enable the sustainable growth and expansion of all types of business in rural areas. Furthermore, Paragraph 84 states that: “Planning policies and decisions should recognise that sites to meet local business and community needs in rural areas may have to be found adjacent to or beyond existing settlements, and in locations that are not well served by public transport. In these circumstances it will be important to ensure that development is sensitive to its surroundings, does not have an unacceptable impact on local roads and exploits any opportunities to make a location more sustainable (for example by improving the scope for access on foot, by cycling or by public transport). The use of previously developed land, and sites that are physically wellrelated to existing settlements, should be encouraged where suitable opportunities exist. both through conversion of existing buildings and well-designed new buildings.”

Nothing chosen

Forecasts suggest that long-term Greater Cambridge could see job growth of up to around 3,500 per year under a transformational job scenario, with associated housing need for around 2,200-2,300 homes per year across Greater Cambridge. There is good reason for Greater Cambridge to consider delivery in excess of its standard method figure (of c.1,800 homes per year). This would be consistent with the NIC’s findings that housebuilding across the CaMKOx arc would need to roughly double compared with recent delivery levels to meet needs in full, including those from land constrained markets. It would also assist the area in meeting more of its affordable housing needs and deal with some of the pressure from unmet housing needs in London leading to in commuters from the capital, often with greater purchasing power than local residents. The edge of the city is likely to need to be the focus for future employment growth. To achieve the most sustainable commuting patterns, housing similarly needs to be located on the edge of the city. We know that the most common method of transport for those living in the city and fringe who also work there is by cycling or walking. These high levels of sustainable travel can be maintained with the co-location of housing and employment at the site, and potentially the number using cars to travel locally could be reduced if accessibility around the local area is improved as a result of the development.

Very important

4.36 The National Planning Policy Framework 2019 states that significant weight should be placed on the need to support economic growth and productivity, taking into account both local business needs and wider opportunities for development (NPPF, paragraph 80). 4.37 Growth relies on increases in employment and productivity. The Cambridge and Peterborough Independent Economic Review (CPIER) emphasises the need for productivity growth in this region as employment rates are so high. Economic growth is therefore essential for the next Local Plan. As part of the devolution contract to Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is a commitment to doubling the economic output of the area (Gross Value Added) over 25 years; this ambition needs to be at the very heart of the Plan. 4.38 Cambridge’s hi-technology clusters, particularly in AI, bio-tech and agri-tech are recognised in the UK Industrial Strategy as an essential element of the UK economy to support “…towns such as MK, Oxford and Cambridge (that) have been hot spots for job creation. We must promote growth through fostering clusters and connectivity across cities, towns and surrounding areas.” 4.39 The new Local Plan should also support a prosperous rural economy and enhance the vitality and viability of the villages within Greater Cambridge which can be provided for by a new settlement at Station Fields.

Nothing chosen

The Cambridge Peterborough Independent Economic Review (CPIER) notes that the wider Cambridge region is committed to doubling its economic output over the next 25 years. On this basis, continuing economic growth should be captured and addressed in the next Plan. However, this economic growth needs to be captured in an appropriate spatial strategy which balances employment growth with housing development and supporting commercial uses. Cambridge City Centre is the primary focus for developments attracting a large number of people and for meeting retail, leisure, cultural and other needs appropriate to its role as a multi-functional regional centre. Grand Arcade contributes to the role of this multi-functional regional centre. To support the emerging Local Plan, it is recommended that an up-to-date Retail and Leisure Study is commissioned. The traditional relationship between growth, retail expenditure and increases in demand for new retail floorspace no longer apply as online shopping will take an ever larger share of that growth. This will ensure that the level of retail provision in the PSA is reflective of the continual changes and advances in the retail industry and is not over optimistic. Without this exercise being undertaken there is a significant risk to the Historic Core from the incorrect retail capacity figures being relied on as a result of the changing retail environment and decrease in retailer demand. It is vital that any future retail strategy which accommodates significant economic and housing growth retains the Historic Core and City at its centre. Transport is key in securing an appropriate spatial strategy which accommodates significant growth. USS would not support an approach which seeks to reduce car parking and access to the City Centre without significant investment and development of public transport infrastructure in advance. This was clearly set out in USS’s representations to the Making Places SPD.

Nothing chosen

2.39 The National Infrastructure Commission, the Cambridge and Peterborough Combined Authority and the Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough Enterprise Partnership acknowledge and support the economic growth potential of the Greater Cambridge area. 2.40 The Cambridge and Peterborough Devolution Deal commits the authorities in the area to planning to double economic output by 2040. 2.41 Therefore, it will be very important for the emerging GCLP to support economic growth in Greater Cambridge.

Nothing chosen

Please see section 6.0 and 7.0 of the accompanying representations document. Forecasts suggest that long-term Greater Cambridge could see job growth of up to around 3,500 per year under a transformational job scenario, with associated housing need for around 2,200-2,300 homes per year across Greater Cambridge. There is good reason for Greater Cambridge to consider delivery in excess of its standard method figure (of c.1,800 homes per year). This would be consistent with the NIC’s findings that housebuilding across the CaMKOx arc would need to roughly double compared with recent delivery levels to meet needs in full, including those from land constrained markets. It would also assist the area in meeting more of its affordable housing needs and deal with some of the pressure from unmet housing needs in London leading to in commuters from the capital, often with greater purchasing power than local residents. The edge of the city is likely to need to be the focus for future employment growth. To achieve the most sustainable commuting patterns, housing similarly needs to be located on the edge of the city. We know that the most common method of transport for those living in the city and fringe who also work there is by cycling or walking. These high levels of sustainable travel can be maintained with the co-location of housing and employment at the site, and potentially the number using cars to travel locally could be reduced if accessibility around the local area is improved as a result of the development.

Nothing chosen

National policy requires Local Planning Authorities to support development that builds on economic growth, increases productivity and where development builds on a location’s strengths. The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)1, paragraph 7 confirms that the purpose of the planning system is to contribute to the achievement of sustainable development. One of the three overarching objectives intended to contribute towards sustainable development, as set out in paragraph 8, states: “An economic objective – to help build a strong, responsive and competitive economy, by ensuring that sufficient land of the right types is available in the right places and at the right time to support growth, innovation and improved productivity; and by identifying and coordinating the provision of infrastructure.” Chapter 6 of the revised NPPF specifically deals with the need to build a strong competitive economy. Paragraph 80 states: “Planning policies and decisions should help create the conditions in which businesses can invest, expand and adapt. Significant weight should be placed on the need to support economic growth and productivity, taking into account both local business needs and wider opportunities for development. The approach taken should allow each area to build on its strengths, counter any weaknesses and address the challenges of the future. This is particularly important where Britain can be a global leader in driving innovation, and in areas with high levels of productivity, which should be able to capitalise on their performance and potential.” Cambridge has a recognised role in delivering the UK Industrial strategy. Particularly it can help increase UK GVA growth through higher productivity as well as employment growth. Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Industrial Strategy supports the UK Industry Strategy. It looks to leverage the strengths of the Cambridge cluster, support the Cambridge innovation system, continue to attract international firms and support the expansion of high growth companies. Economic growth projections for Greater Cambridge have come under scrutiny with the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Independent Economic Commissions (IEC) providing evidence in their report (CPIER) suggesting official statistics under represent past levels of economic growth in the region and have projected them forward, thereby underestimating future employment growth. To meet C&PCA target of doubling GVA by 2041, a significant increase in growth in both employment and productivity is required in Greater Cambridge. This in turn will require a step change in the level of both office and industrial premises to accommodate this growth. 1 MHCLG. February 2019. National Planning Policy Framework. Greater Cambridge Consultation Document - Six Mile Bottom Page 19 The emphasis on clean growth places a responsibility on planners to make the most of locations, benefiting from rail infrastructure and active travel opportunities. Investment in low energy buildings is also key to improving energy productivity. Economic Growth is essential to Greater Cambridge and the surrounding area as identified by CPIER (Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Independent Economic Review). As part of the devolution contract to Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is a commitment to doubling the economic output of the area (Gross Value Added) over 25 years. This target needs to be at the heart of the Plan.

Very important

The Local Plan should ensure that a variety of employment opportunities are available across the District for all members of the community. This includes protecting and enabling the growth of established and successful businesses in the District such as DB Group. DB Group operate in Bourn and undertake the following operations and processes: - Sand grading – filtering sand to provide different levels of fineness; - Production of additives used in concrete mixes – blending of powders from silo storage; -Warehousing – receipt and dispatch of goods either manufactured or purchased off site for resale These uses, in combination, amount to B2 General Industrial use. The company currently employs 21 full time staff on site with a further 40 being primarily field based and visiting the site approximately once a week. The company’s expansion plans have the potential to create a further 16 jobs on site in the relatively near term and potentially more in the future. DB Group initiated an apprenticeship scheme for its contracting business in 2018, leading its first successful trainee to become a permanent employee now remunerated at levels on par with more experienced peers. Summer 2019 saw its first intern opportunities provided to sixth-form students, which it hopes to continue into the future. As set out in response to questions 8 and 9, the Council should be supporting companies who are finding innovative solutions to key challenges facing the District, such as reducing our impact on the climate. DB Group has sustainability running through its core and the company understand how important it is to reduce their environmental impact in everything they do. That’s why, in 2015 they introduced Cemfree ultra-low carbon concrete which was a complete game changer for the construction industry that achieves dramatic carbon savings of up to 88% in concrete. This innovative technology was developed in-house to ensure every detail was exactly as it should be. It has since won multiple awards and continues to excite and impress the industry in equal measure. Ensuring that businesses and employment opportunities within the District are also focussed on innovation is essential. The Council should be proactively working with DB Group, and companies like them, to ensure that the Local Plan enables their full economic potential. The Councils should also consider opportunities to support the use of Cemfree and similar low carbon concretes across its estate and Greater Cambridge.

Nothing chosen

5.1 As referred to in Section 2 of these representations, National Planning Policy confirms “Significant weight should be placed on the need to support economic growth and productivity, taking into account both local business needs and wider opportunities for development” (NPPF, paragraph 80). The approach taken should allow each area to build on its strengths, counter any weaknesses and address the challenges of the future. 5.2 Cambridge’s hi-technology clusters, particularly in AI, bio-tech and agri-tech are recognised in the UK Industrial Strategy as an essential element of the UK economy to support “…towns such as MK, Oxford and Cambridge (that) have been hot spots for job creation. We must promote growth through fostering clusters and connectivity across cities, towns and surrounding areas.” 5.3 Growth relies on increases in employment and productivity and the Cambridge and Peterborough Independent Economic Review (CPIER) emphasises the need for productivity growth in this region as employment rates are so high. Economic growth is therefore essential for the next Local Plan. As part of the devolution contract to Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is a commitment to doubling the economic output of the area (Gross Value Added) over 25 years. This is a challenging target and needs to factor at the heart of the Plan.

Nothing chosen

5.1.1 It is essential to Greater Cambridge and the surrounding area as identified by CPIER (Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Independent Economic Review). As part of the devolution contract to Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is a commitment to doubling the economic output of the area (Gross Value Added) over 25 years. This is a challenging target and needs to be a factor at the heart of the Plan.

Nothing chosen

5.1 As referred to in Section 2 of these representations, National Planning Policy confirms “Significant weight should be placed on the need to support economic growth and productivity, taking into account both local business needs and wider opportunities for development” (NPPF, paragraph 80). The approach taken should allow each area to build on its strengths, counter any weaknesses and address the challenges of the future. 5.2 Cambridge’s hi-technology clusters, particularly in AI, bio-tech and agri-tech are recognised in the UK Industrial Strategy as an essential element of the UK economy to support “…towns such as MK, Oxford and Cambridge (that) have been hot spots for job creation. We must promote growth through fostering clusters and connectivity across cities, towns and surrounding areas.” 5.3 Growth relies on increases in employment and productivity and the Cambridge and Peterborough Independent Economic Review (CPIER) emphasises the need for productivity growth in this region as employment rates are so high. Economic growth is therefore essential for the next Local Plan. As part of the devolution contract to Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is a commitment to doubling the economic output of the area (Gross Value Added) over 25 years. This is a challenging target and needs to factor at the heart of the Plan.