Plans to build student accommodation near Cambridge’s Paradise Nature Reserve are moving forward, despite concerns about disruptions to a neighbouring primary school. On Wednesday, Cambridge City Council approved a phasing plan for the project. The development will add four student accommodation blocks on Owlstone Road for Queens’ College, part of Cambridge University.
This follows recent news the former Cuba Libre site at 19-35 Regents Street will also be redeveloped into student accommodation.
60 Room Project
The 60-room project will be completed in a single phase to streamline management and reduce disruption, according to the college. However, Emma Smith, a governor at Newnham Croft Primary School, criticised inconsistencies in the project documents. She highlighted that the construction programme includes demolishing buildings and removing asbestos during term time, raising health concerns for children.
At the council meeting, Ms Smith warned, “The documents must be consistent. Mistakes could put the health of hundreds of small children at risk. There’s no room for errors or shortcuts.” She urged the council to prioritise student safety and minimise disruptions to education.
Originally, the construction programme was set for approval alongside the phasing plan. However, councillors removed it from the agenda, approving only the phasing plan. While this allows the development to proceed, the construction schedule will undergo further review.
Construction disruption
The project involves demolishing a nursery building, partially dismantling college structures, building four student housing blocks, and installing a new electricity substation. Some councillors, including Petersfield representative Katie Thornburrow, criticised the lack of clarity on how construction would align with school schedules.
“The programme should outline school operating hours and the impact of construction and noise,” Councillor Thornburrow said.
Despite these concerns, most councillors believe clearer details will emerge before construction starts. The phasing plan passed with five votes in favour, one abstention, and no objections.
This approval follows a previous rejection of the project due to environmental concerns about its impact on Paradise Nature Reserve. However, Queens’ College successfully appealed the decision, allowing the student housing development to move forward.
