In accordance with plans submitted in October 2025, the proposals include the demolition of the existing building and full site clearance to provide high-quality, modern workspace alongside significant public realm improvements in a highly sustainable development.
Bidwells’ Planning team has acted as planning adviser to Stanhope (a certified B Corp), development partner to CBRE Investment Management (fund manager), guiding the project through an intensive planning process. Bidwells provided planning, heritage, townscape, EIA and socio-economic services.
The development will deliver a new eight-storey, 160,000 sq ft, best-in-class office building, supporting the continued growth and success of the CB1 cluster. Situated around Cambridge railway station, CB1 has developed into the city’s central business district and is home to key tech giants, including Amazon, Apple, Microsoft Research and Samsung.
Designed by Bennetts Associates (B Corp), with landscape design by Robert Myers Associates, the proposals include extensive public realm, roof terraces, tree planting and the reinstatement of the existing ‘Kett Oak’ mural. Sustainability has been central to the planning strategy, from justifying demolition through to the building’s environmental performance and material choices. Transport advice was provided by KMC Transport Planning.
The resolution to grant planning reflects the strength of the proposals and the collaborative approach taken throughout the planning process, with Bidwells’ planning expertise playing a key role in the efficient progression of the scheme from pre-application through to committee. Huge credit must also be given to the planning and design teams at Cambridge City Council who embraced the challenge of this site in a meaningful and constructive manner, not least keeping pace with agreed timescales.
Jennie Hainsworth, Partner, Planning at Bidwells, said:
“Securing this resolution to grant planning highlights the importance of careful, planning-led design evolution and sustained engagement throughout the application process. The outcome reflects both the strength of the planning case and the effectiveness of the collaborative approach taken from pre-application through to committee.”
