Hinsley Lane, Cambridge (St John's College)

An overgrown site on the edge of Cambridge, within a Conservation Area and subject to numerous TPOs. The development needed to integrate with the landscape features on the site, blend with the urban fabric around it and limit impact on the adjacent countryside. This required careful negotiation with the Urban Design Officer, Conservation Officer, Landscape Officer and Tree Officer, as well as the Council’s Design Review Panel.

Prior to submitting the planning application we undertook a consultation event with local residents. Due to covid restrictions this was done online, which required careful preparation and management on the night. By engaging with people the team was able to address their queries, reassure them about the proposals and limit objections to the planning application itself. This engagement was also important to protect the client’s reputation. The application was recommended for approval by officers and unanimously approved by members.