Proposals for a sustainable neighbourhood in Cambridge

In partnership with Railpen, Socius are delighted to have submitted an updated planning application for Devonshire Gardens; a sustainable neighbourhood in the heart of Cambridge. Our proposals will substantially green an industrial site, currently occupied by Travis Perkins on Devonshire Road; quadrupling nature* and delivering new homes, jobs and community amenities.

Plans include 70 new homes for rent, including affordable homes, as well as flexible modern workspace for start-ups and local independents. A range of community amenities will include a creche, cycle hub, community kitchen, library of things, art space, event space and public gardens and a locally-designed community pavilion.

The site will be designed to encourage active travel, through the planned 539 cycle spaces, and in line with the City Council’s Climate Change Strategy, there will only be six car parking spaces provided; all with Electric Vehicle charge points for car clubs, visitors, loading and provisions for blue badge holders.

Doug Higgins, Project Director, Socius said:

“We have been actively engaging with the local authority and community for almost two years now and have continued to take on board their feedback, which has helped shape these new proposals.

“For instance, we have responded to recent feedback on our plans for Devonshire Gardens by making adjustments to the height of the commercial buildings and landscape design.

“We are very excited about this highly sustainable and community focussed project, which we believe will complement and enhance an already vibrant Mill Road community.

“I would like to extend my thanks to all of the local organisations and individuals who have contributed to this revised submission.”

To find out more, visit Devonshire Gardens Cambridge

*357% net gain in biodiversity, which equates to more than a 4x uplift through new wildlife habitats, plants, trees, green roofs and edible planting.