Greater Cambridge Shared Planning (GCSP), the shared planning service for Cambridge City Council and South Cambridgeshire District Council, is reconsulting on the draft Greater Cambridge Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Document (SPD).
This follows updates to the draft SPD being made in response to feedback from an initial consultation held between November 2024 and January 2025.
People are now being asked for their views on the updated draft SPD and feed back by Friday 17 October 2025.
The SPD provides detailed guidance on how planning obligations, also known as Section 106 contributions, will be used to mitigate the impact of new developments across Greater Cambridge. The SPD outlines when developers might need to make these contributions and what they could involve. Examples of this may include affordable homes, better transport options like cycle paths or bus improvements, and protecting nature by improving habitats and planting more greenery.
The feedback gathered from during the consultation will play a crucial role in shaping the final version of the Supplementary Planning Document. Once adopted, the SPD will replace existing planning obligations guidance currently used by Cambridge City Council and will also help to guide development in South Cambridgeshire.
Cllr Dr. Tumi Hawkins, Lead Cabinet Member for Planning for South Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “Planning obligations play a vital role in making sure new developments contribute positively to our communities. We’ve listened carefully to the feedback received during our previous consultation and made updates to the draft SPD in response. This new round of consultation is another important opportunity to ensure that the voices of the community and developers are heard and considered when finalising the guidance.”
Cllr Katie Thornburrow, Cabinet Member for Planning and Transport at Cambridge City Council, added: “We’re committed to ensuring that development is not just about building homes, but about creating thriving, well-connected communities. The updated SPD provides clarity for developers and reassurance for residents that contributions will be used effectively to support local priorities, from green spaces and biodiversity to schools and public transport.”
The SPD will provide further information and detailed guidance on policies in the councils’ current adopted Local Plans.
Have Your Say
Comments can be made on the SPD until 5pm on Friday 17 October 2025. To read the updated draft SPD and to find out how to submit your comments, visit our dedicated webpage.
The councils are also holding in-person and online consultation events during the consultation period. These events are an opportunity to connect with Planning Officers, share your thoughts, and find out more about the SPD out for consultation.
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