CBC 2022 Emerging Spatial Framework Summary

This page enables you to download a summary from the emerging spatial framework for the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, developed in 2022. The emerging spatial framework represents an important step in realising the whole-campus vision for coherent growth, shared campus amenities and greater environmental quality – the first time a holistic approach has been taken to campus development.

The emerging spatial framework was informed by engagements with community representatives, campus members and landowners, as well as with officers from Greater Cambridge Shared Planning. The document includes options for use of land not presently allocated in the local plan; this is subject to both the development of proposals from landowners and processes which would be led by planning authorities. It was also informed by previous documents identifying opportunities on the campus for growth, including the suite of Vision 2050 documents.

Purpose of the Emerging Spatial Framework

The campus landowners and constituent members have developed individual proposals to various degrees of resolution, from outline planning consents to early feasibility work. The emerging spatial framework has sought to work ‘with the grain’ of existing plans, making strategic improvements on them, and providing an ‘overlay’ of place-based interventions in order to form a framework that increases the coherence, attractiveness and amenity of the campus. As part of this, the emerging spatial framework will promote a land use mix for the campus and its proposed expansion, which gives effect to the objectives set in the Vision 2050. This will enable the Campus to progressively evolve into a comprehensive, world class centre for biomedical practice and research integrated with its neighbours and environment.

Download the summary