A development of 54 new homes in Haddenham has been given the green light by the planning committee at East Cambridgeshire District Council.

The scheme, which includes 19 affordable homes, was applied for by the Haddenham Community Land Trust.

Trustees from the CLT engaged with planners from an early stage and attended pre-application discussions to ensure that the development adhered to relevant policies, local needs were met and concerns acknowledged.

Councillor Mark Hugo, ward Councillor and Chairman for Haddenham Community Land Trust has said: “We are delighted with the decision by the planning committee. This decision means that the Haddenham Community Land Trust can go ahead and provide affordable homes for young local families in the village as well as providing an income source for further village projects and ventures.

The site design was greatly influenced by local people following regular consultations with residents”.

Cllr Charles Roberts, Leader of East Cambridgeshire District Council said:

“We are thrilled to be bringing this project to fruition and that it was given the full backing of members at the Planning Committee this week. Providing genuinely affordable local homes for local people though the Community Land Trust scheme is at the heart of East Cambs housing policy and it is something we are fully committed to supporting and developing. East Cambs is proud to be leading the way in building community led housing and making our district a fantastic place to live and work.”

A pledge to deliver a Community Land Trust scheme at Haddenham was a key part of the new East Cambs Corporate plan 2017-2019, which was unveiled by the Council recently.

Cllr Roberts added: “We have a ‘can-do’ attitude here at East Cambridgeshire and I am very proud to be leader of an organisation which is already delivering its key targets.”

Cllr Steve Cheetham, Haddenham Ward Councillor added: “'This is absolutely fantastic news for the village of Haddenham, which like so many local villages faces the challenge of providing access to affordable homes which are vital to a sustainable community.  Having spoken to a number of residents at the consultation meetings, I am confident this CLT Scheme will transform the lives of many local residents”.

The East Cambs corporate plan 2017 – 2019 has a key focus on housing and outlines the council’s dedication to continue to develop Community Land Trusts and provide genuinely affordable housing for residents.

East Cambridgeshire District Council has recently released a video outlining its aims from the corporate plan.  You can view the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChMAq1JHPPk&t=1s