Cambridge councillors object to Beehive Centre rebuild now decided by the government following council meeting.
That Wednesday, the government took over the decision. The Housing Secretary will now decide. This happened right before the meeting began. The local council loses control.
The council voted against the plan. Their vote was unanimous. Their refusal may still influence the Secretary. Angela Rayner’s team could consider it.
A local resident spoke out about the process. They called it “disgraceful,” saying it poisons public trust. People at the meeting applauded.
Councillor Naomi Bennett also spoke. She said Railpen acted in good faith, but still has concerns about the switch. The national government’s role worries her.
Vehicles would enter from Coldhams Lane. Cyclists could use Coldhams Lane, York Street, and Sleaford Street. The plan includes planting over 200 trees.
Councillors were upset by the building’s size. They felt it harmed neighbors’ homes. Several streets may get less light, which led to the officers’ recommendation to refuse the build.
Councillor Katie Porrer liked some parts. She liked the cycling plans in particular. She worried about residents’ houses because many homes would be affected by it. It just needed a few changes to be good.
Railpen lessened building heights. They moved structures away from homes, incorporating feedback from locals. The officers didn’t think it was enough though.
Matthew Howard spoke for Railpen. He said they worked with the council and sought community feedback. They recognized plan benefits, like good economics.
He noted rejection was on a “technical matter” and said their application addresses it. Railpen wanted an independent expert, and the report arrived just before the meeting. An officer abruptly cut the discussion short.
Howard stated they want to work well with officers. He reinforced their promise to the Cambridge community, pledging real, useful change.