When Amaran Ganesan and his wife moved to Northstowe five years ago, they imagined a lively new town with shops, cafes and restaurants. Instead, the streets remain quiet and bare – and not a single store or eatery has opened its doors.
Developers delayed plans for a town centre until the population reached a “sustainable” size. But with more than 3,000 people now living there, residents say they have been left waiting too long. A temporary centre is promised for next year, but many feel that’s not good enough.
“We need a proper one,” says Ganesan. “Not just something makeshift.”
Amaran Ganesan speaking to The Telegraph
Northstowe was meant to be a showcase for Britain’s new towns programme. Plans first drawn up in 2007 promised homes alongside shops, services and green spaces. But of the 10,000 homes originally planned, only 1,500 have been built since work began eight years ago – and basic infrastructure is lagging far behind.
Rows of similar-looking houses now dominate the landscape. Schools, a sports pavilion and a handful of parks exist, but there is still no GP surgery, limited bus connections and ongoing roadworks. For many daily needs, from food shopping to healthcare, residents travel to neighbouring villages.
Frustration is mounting. “We want to leave,” says another resident, who moved from Newmarket.
“There’s nothing here. We invested a lot and it’s very disappointing.”
Northstowe resident
The problems highlight a long-standing challenge in new developments: amenities often require large upfront investment, but developers hesitate until enough people move in. This chicken-and-egg problem means communities can feel half-built for years.
Recent issues with water pressure and rising reports of anti-social behaviour have added to residents’ concerns. Some say weak phone signal and a lack of visible policing make them feel unsafe.
Despite this, locals say there is a strong community spirit – one that has kept many hopeful. Residents have organised groups, events and clubs to bring people together. But patience is wearing thin.
“The town could be amazing,” says long-term resident, speaking to The Telegraph. “There are brilliant people here, but frustration has chipped away at the goodwill. People don’t want to wait another five years for basic things.”
Community groups and planning experts stress that a successful town is about more than bricks and tarmac. Social spaces, local shops and health services are as vital as houses themselves. Without them, Northstowe risks becoming another reminder of what happens when infrastructure falls behind ambition.
For now, residents are still waiting – and wondering when their new town will finally start to feel like one.
