Beehive Centre Redevelopment Faces Refusal Recommendation
Plans to demolish the Beehive Centre in Cambridge and replace it with offices, labs, and community spaces have been recommended for refusal by Cambridge City Council. The council's planning officer cited concerns that the proposed redevelopment near Coldham's Lane would significantly reduce daylight and sunlight for neighboring residents, potentially impacting their quality of life.
Railpen, the pension fund manager that owns the site, had envisioned the project as a "workplace and innovation cluster" that would create a new hub for the local community. They estimated that the redevelopment would generate 3,000 jobs, including entry-level positions and training opportunities.
"The council's planning officer has acknowledged the significant economic, social, and environmental benefits of the project."
"It will impact the people who don't have cars and can walk to the supermarkets here. People would have to take the car out to turn around and go further afield."
"For residents, it's probably better as it's going to be quieter at the weekends," but questioned the need for more office and lab space. "We've got enough here in Cambridge – if not, we should build on the outskirts," he added.
Green Party councillor Elliot Tong, who represents Abbey Ward, acknowledged that the Beehive Centre needed improvement but raised concerns about the development's impact on the community. "Abbey needs this sort of investment, and I'm really excited about money being put into it," he said. "The question is – are the community being taken into account?"
Cambridge City Council's planning committee is set to make a final decision on the proposal on Wednesday.