Business
Council invites businesses to shape employment zone for Northstowe
Businesses are invited to have their say in shaping the future of the employment zone in Northstowe.
South Cambridgeshire has invited them to take part in a six-week online survey.
“The aim is to gather a range of ideas and views to ensure a thriving business community is created for the sustainable new development, said a council spokesperson.
“The survey is aimed at business leaders from a wide range of sectors who can help inform the design by sharing their experiences of what they think will make the employment zone a great place to work.”
Cllr Peter McDonald, South Cambridgeshire District Council’s Lead Cabinet Member for Economic Development, said: “We are targeting existing businesses or anyone thinking of setting up a new business to consider the development at Northstowe.
“We want to hear what would make Northstowe an attractive location for your business and make it a great place for the people who work for you.
“We want to hear what you would like to see to help companies succeed here.
“Even if you’re not looking to relocate, this is an opportunity to use your business experience and perspective to shape the future of Cambridgeshire’s new town.
“And help us create a thriving business community, ensuring Northstowe’s competitive advantage, sustainable growth, and prosperous future.”
Cllr Alex Malyon, district councillor for Northstowe, said: “Northstowe has a strong sense of community and an identity that is unique, where health and wellbeing are promoted.
“Your responses to this digital consultation will help us understand what businesses want from an employment zone and will help shape the final design for the area.”
The council says Northstowe is a sustainable new development near Cambridge, with 9.5 acres of new, prime employment zone land.
“Based on the site of the former RAF Oakington base, there are 10,000 new homes planned and an anticipated population of around 26,000 people,” said the council spokesperson.
“The council continues to work with residents and the local businesses community on plans for two future key parts of Northstowe; the Local Centre and Employment Zone.
“This comes after the council purchased both sites earlier in 2021 in a bid to kickstart the development of facilities for local people.”
The spokesperson added: “The council envisages that the Employment Zone will become an attractive northern gateway to Northstowe, taking advantage of the Guided Busway’s links to Cambridge, St Ives, and surrounding villages.
“The Zone will contain buildings in an attractive landscape setting, providing green links, connections, and places for people to enjoy.”
The Northstowe Employment Zone survey runs until Monday 24 October. https://placebuilder.io/northstoweone
