The University of Cambridge will soon be re-submitting a planning application for the renewal and resurfacing of the access road to the Sainsbury Laboratory, Cambridge University Botanic Garden and Plant Growth Lab, off Bateman Street.
The work is necessary as the condition of the roadway surface is currently poor and there is restricted access for cyclists and pedestrians. The drainage system is not working correctly which leads to water on the surface, and, in dry conditions the road surface gets very dusty.
The replacement and improvement of this roadway would provide a long-term solution and benefits to all users.
The main proposed changes include:
- Resurfacing the roadway with an impermeable surface.
- Creating an infiltration trench to provide improved drainage.
- Removal of an existing hedgerow and replacement with greater value planting.
- Provision of additional cycle parking for users of the Plant Growth Laboratory.
- Resurfacing of St Marys access road with delineation of kerb line for pedestrian route.
A previous application (24/03297/FUL) was submitted for alterations to the existing access, which included a segregated pedestrian and cycle access. Following comments received from consultees and residents the application was withdrawn. Since the withdrawal of the previous application amendments have been made to remove the segregated cycle and pedestrian access, which now keeps the access in the existing location and provides additional space for planting along the boundary.
The application is accompanied by a Tree Survey and Arboricultural Impact Assessment and details of the proposed hedgerow and tree planting. Following comments received from the neighbouring properties, the University also tried to retain the existing hedgerow, but this has not been possible due to the need for an infiltration trench along this section of the site. A new hedgerow and tree planting is proposed along this boundary, which will also ensure a 10% Biodiversity Net Gain. The work is expected to take around a month to complete.
Local residents have been informed and anyone who would like more information about the planning application is invited to get in touch.
Please email estate.communications@admin.cam.ac.uk if you have any other queries.