‘Big plans’ for new 120-home neighbourhood with gym proposed for Cambridgeshire town

A developer wants to bring new businesses and up to 120 new homes to a Cambridgeshire town

A Cambridgeshire town area could get a “new life” under new proposals, according to a developer. Capital and Centric said it has “big plans” for the old cattle market square and gatehouse in St Ives.

The developer says it is working with Huntingdonshire District Council to “transform” part of St Ives with new homes, resident amenities such as a gym, and green spaces. A Capital and Centric spokesperson said: “We’re working with Huntingdonshire District Council to breathe new life into the old cattle market square and gatehouse in St Ives.

“With strong commuter links to Cambridge, St Ives is the perfect place to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life while staying well connected to the city. Our vision is to transform this area of St Ives with thoughtfully designed contemporary homes, alongside resident amenities and green spaces that complement the town’s rich heritage and historic character.”

The area is currently home to a bus station and car park. The developer seeks to build up to 120 new homes alongside resident “perks” such as a gym and co-working space.

Other proposals include wild landscaping and green space, which could be surrounded by walking and pedestrian routes to connect the new neighbourhood with the rest of the community.

The developer added that if approved, the proposals would create a “spill out space” filled with bars, cafes and restaurants, to “encourage the community to come together”. The new neighbourhood would also see “bold architecture that complements the existing facades in the town”, according to planning documents.

Capital and Centric is seeking people’s opinions on the proposals before they submit a planning application towards the end of the year. People are asked to share their views here before September 4.

The same developer has also proposed “big plans” for two other Cambridgeshire towns. If approved, a current bus station and car park on Princes Street in Huntingdon will be transformed into a “vibrant new gateway neighbourhood” with up to 78 new homes.

The proposals for St Neots would see the car park on Tebbutts Road transformed. The development would include a community pavilion, up to 83 new homes and a walled garden.