Councillors are set to vote on a £54 million regeneration project aimed at revitalising the Newmarket Road junction in East Barnwell. The meeting, scheduled for 11 June, will determine if the proposed redevelopment can proceed.

Cambridge City Council, in collaboration with the Cambridge Investment Partnership—a joint venture between the council and Hill Investment Partnerships—has put forward plans to transform two sites in East Barnwell into a new local centre. The project includes the construction of 120 new affordable flats.

The redevelopment plan involves demolishing existing buildings, including the Abbey Bowls Club, the library, and a parade of 1960s shops with flats above. In their place, the proposal includes 43 one-bedroom flats, 61 two-bedroom flats, 12 three-bedroom flats, and four three-bedroom maisonettes. Additionally, a new community centre, library, pre-school, shops, and potentially a new café are part of the project.

Planning officers have recommended the application for approval. Their report highlights that the development “would increase the amount of affordable housing in a sustainable location to help meet an identified demand within the local area.” It also emphasised that the project would provide “high quality, sustainable development” without negatively impacting its surroundings.

The council’s decision on this regeneration project will be closely watched by both supporters and opponents of the redevelopment.