A legal challenge is underway against plans for a 23-acre science district and urban country park near Cherry Hinton Lakes. Residents fear the development, approved last week, could have serious environmental and health consequences.
The site, a former landfill near Coldhams Lane, has raised safety concerns. Residents argue there is no clear evidence that it is safe to build on. In response, local groups have formed CHARLIE (Cherry Hinton Against Reuse of Landfill In Spite of Evidence) to fight the decision.
“Further scrutiny is vital, exposure to landfill toxins can cause birth defects, weaken the immune system, and increase cancer risks. We need thorough contamination tests before any construction begins.”
Rev Dr Karin Voth Harman, vicar of St Andrew’s Church and a founding CHARLIE membe
Despite these concerns, Cambridge City Council approved the project after finalising a legal agreement with developers. Officials insist strict environmental safeguards will be in place. The development, led by Mission Street, includes 1,000,000 sq ft of office and laboratory space, a community pavilion, and public lakeside access.
Safety and Environmental Concerns Grow
Many residents remain unconvinced. In August, 16-year-old Dishone Lloyd tragically drowned in the private lakes, raising concerns about public access. “The proposed park design fails to protect both people and wildlife,” said Sue Wells, chair of Friends of Cherry Hinton Brook. She noted the lakes are a City Wildlife Site, home to nesting kingfishers, great crested grebes, and rare orchids. “The plan needs major revision,” she added.
Documents obtained through a Freedom of Information request have also raised alarm. Emails reveal that in July, the council’s environmental health team felt the project posed serious risks to human health and groundwater pollution. However, planners reportedly urged a “more lenient stance” on contamination concerns.
“The landfill is currently stable due to natural clay encapsulation,” said David McLean, a technical adviser to CHARLIE. “Digging up the site could release dangerous toxins like asbestos, mercury, and cyanide into the aquifer and ecosystem.”
Calls for Independent Oversight
Ian Ralls, of Cambridge Friends of the Earth, called for stricter controls. “This decision could have grave consequences for our environment, air, soil, and water,” he warned. “We demand independent oversight to ensure proper monitoring and enforcement.”
Meanwhile, local lawyer and school governor Rose Lee urged residents to support the legal challenge. “We are not NIMBYs. We are concerned citizens demanding transparency. We have until 14 March to investigate and challenge this decision,” she said, urging donations to reach the group’s £10,000 target.
Council and Developer Defend Plans
Despite the backlash, Cambridge City Council remains confident in the project’s safety. “We have resolved environmental concerns by working with health officials and the Environment Agency,” said Councillor Katie Thornburrow. She highlighted community benefits, including new public spaces, improved cycling paths, and job creation.
Mission Street echoed this sentiment. “District East will bring world-class R&D facilities and public amenities, revitalising this underutilised site,” said a spokesperson.
The council maintains that strict planning conditions will ensure safety. “The developer must provide additional evidence proving the site can be safely redeveloped,” a planning spokesperson stated. “We have secured independent oversight of all field trials to monitor environmental impacts.”
As legal proceedings move forward, the dispute highlights the tension between urban expansion and environmental concerns. To support the CHARLIE campaign, visit gofundme.com/f/n3erg-charlie.
