The relocation of Cambridge’s waste water treatment plant to Honey Hill, near Horningsea, has been officially approved by the government.
Anglian Water’s plan, submitted in April 2023, was prompted by a government request to consider moving its current facility in Milton. The land it occupies will now be transformed into part of the ambitious North East Cambridge development, expected to deliver around 8,000 homes and new commercial infrastructure.
The new plant at Honey Hill will receive £277 million in government funding, with total costs projected at £400 million.
However, the project has sparked a backlash from local residents, campaigners, and even the planning authority tasked with examining the proposal. Concerns centred on the use of protected green belt land, with critics arguing that the environmental cost outweighed the benefits. The examining authority stated that the principle of the relocation had not been “adequately justified” in terms of infrastructure or policy.
Government Sees “Transformative Potential”
In a statement explaining the decision, Environment Secretary Steve Reed overruled the planning inspectors. He emphasised that the relocation is essential for realising a “long-held ambition” to redevelop the area and boost housing supply.
Anglian Water said it would continue engaging with the local community as it begins preparing for construction at Honey Hill.
While the move is being hailed by some as a step towards meeting Cambridge’s housing needs, the debate over green belt development is far from over.
