Concerns over new CB1 buildings

Plans for two new buildings being proposed as additions to Station Square have alarmed residents.

Two new buildings are being proposed in CB1, the area surrounding Cambridge central station – a hostel with 400 beds and a multi-storey car park and apart-hotel.

The buildings would stand opposite each other in the area to the north of the railway station, where car parking now exists.

Brookgate is preparing to submit a new planning application for the buildings early next year. Residents can give their feedback to laura.fisher@bidwells.co.uk by Wednesday, December 13.

Residents have already expressed concerns that the buildings are taller than originally detailed.

Edward Leigh, speaking for South Petersfield Residents’ Association, said: “We are deeply concerned that Brookgate has already pushed the envelope on what they have built to date, adding floors and mass to create what most people are describing as ugly, characterless blocks.”

The apart-hotel, which would stand behind the Ibis Hotel in Station Square, would have 210 car parking spaces for Network Rail, with the apart-hotel on the upper floors and a central courtyard and a glazed three-storey entrance lobby.

The hostel building would comprise three sections – the 400-bed hostel on the ground floor and first floor with rooms of varying sizes and a lobby and lounge. Office space would be on either side.

Residents also expressed concerns with plans for transport provision.