Decision details

To approve a package of new build housing schemes to be brought forward following Passivhaus design principles. These schemes require approval of capital budgets to progress up to planning application stage, and approval to commence consultation with neighbouring tenants and leaseholders.

This item was chaired by Councillor Mike Todd-Jones

Matter for Decision

The Officer’s report brought forward proposals for 35 dwellings across five sites as a first step in delivering homes on Passivhaus principles.

Decision of Executive Councillor for Housing

      i.          Approved new build housing schemes

a.    at Ditton Walk.

b.    at 71-73 Fen Road.

c.    at Aragon Close.

d.    at Sackville Close.

e.    at Borrowdale.

     ii.          Approved the capital budget as set out in the Officer’s report for the package of Passivhaus schemes noting that this will be reduced should any of the five sites not proceed.

   iii.          Authorised the Strategic Director in consultation with the Executive Councillor for Housing to approve variations to the schemes, including the number of units and mix of property types and sizes outlined in the Officer’s report.

   iv.          Subject to Council approval of the budget, approved the development to be carried out through the Cambridge Investment Partnership (CIP) subject to a value for money assessment to be carried out on behalf of the Council.

Reason for the Decision

As set out in the Officer’s report.

Any Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

Not applicable.

Scrutiny Considerations

The Committee received a report from the Senior Housing Development Manager.

The Senior Housing Development Manager said the following in response to Members’ questions:

      i.          Allocated disabled parking was available.

     ii.          There was a lot of misinformation around what the City Council planned for the Fen Road site, it was hoped the Officer’s report addressed this.

The Committee unanimously resolved to endorse the recommendations.

The Executive Councillor approved the recommendations.

Conflicts of Interest Declared by the Executive Councillor (and any Dispensations Granted)

No conflicts of interest were declared by the Executive Councillor.