06/10/2026
On Monday 5th October Great Shelford Parish Council considered its response to the consultation organised by the proponents of the proposed Cambridge South development.
The parish council agreed that it is strongly opposed to this proposed development. We consider it to be an existential threat to our village and the way of life of its residents. It is also a threat to Cambridge and its character as a small, compact city surrounded by individual necklace villages, each with their individual character. The proposed development will triple the size of Great Shelford, eliminate all the greenbelt on the north west of the village and destroy an area our residents enjoy frequently for walking, cycling and horse riding. It will also eliminate arable land at a time when growing our own food is becoming increasingly important.
Based on the many conversations we have had recently, we believe that this position will be strongly supported by our fellow residents.
We believe that this proposed development is not allowed under current planning rules, but that may not be sufficient to prevent the development. We urge our residents to respond to the consultation at the following website. A large volume of responses will be required to send a strong message to the developers and land owners.
https://cambridgesouth.co.uk/
Some residents have asked us if there will be an action group formed to campaign against the proposed development. The parish council would be very supportive if such a group were to be formed, but to have the most effect we believe it should be at arms-length from the parish council. This will provide greater energy and agility and will also demonstrate that it has wide-spread support within the general population. The parish council would be happy to put like-minded people in touch with each other for those who are interested in participating.
Discover the emerging vision for Cambridge South — around 4,000 new homes, a Country Park along the River Cam, and direct links to Cambridge South Station. Share your feedback at our public exhibitions or online.