Feedback wanted on new growth cell in Cambridge

Public feedback is being actively sought on plans for a new growth cell in Cambridge.

The area in Leamington between Lamb Street and Cambridge Road, bordered to the north by a gully, is known as the C4 growth cell. In Waipa¯ District Council’s 2050 growth strategy, development in the cell is scheduled to start before 2035.

The new growth area will be completed in stages and when finished, will include 500-600 new houses.

Council’s strategy manager Kirsty Downey said Council had developed a draft structure plan for the new area, showing what could be included and where.

The planned development would help “balance” the town which had already seen extensive development in the north, she said.

“At this stage, what we’ve developed is similar to a draft floor plan, showing what’s being considered in terms of roads, a commercial area and amenities like parks and cycleways,” Downey said.

“The draft floor plan has been developed in conjunction with mana whenua and some local land-owners. But now it’s time to open that draft up to the wider community before final decisions are made and the structure plan is formally endorsed by Council.” Downey acknowledge some people might not want further growth in Cambridge but said Council had no choice but plan for it.

“High-growth councils, like Waipa¯, are required by central government to plan for and provide for growth.

“We can’t just say no so our focus must be on ensuring we plan and manage that growth in the best way possible.”

The draft structure plan for the C4 growth cell includes a new gateway to create another entrance for Cambridge plus road changes to improve safety and connectivity.

There are new pedestrian and cycling paths signalled as well as a gully edge reserve plus two additional parks.

A commercial centre where Lamb St currently connects with Cambridge Road is included with feedback sought on what sought of commercial activity should be allowed.

A new four-leg roundabout is planned to deal with the projected increase in traffic.

Council will take public feedback on the draft plan until April 2, either online at waipadc.govt.nz/ haveyoursay or via hard copy booklets available at Council offices or libraries.

Once feedback is received, final recommendations will go back to Council.