CIP unveils plans for rundown housing estate

Plans to regenerate Hanover and Princess Courts in Cambridge have been released for public consultation. Cambridge Investment Partnership, a joint venture between Cambridge City Council and housebuilder Hill Group, is seeking views on its plans to transform the existing estate into more fit-for-purpose and accessible development. The existing estate is a large U-shaped block comprising 127 homes, with 82 council homes, 45 private homes and 126 garages. CIP said the current buildings had reached the end of their design life, faced high maintenance costs and that there was room for improvements in thermal and sound insulation.  Detailed surveys have also uncovered structural issues and fire risks, along with the presence of asbestos. In response, the partnership has initiated a voluntary decanting process, relocating residents as part of the estate renewal. New plans for the estate include an increase in the number of homes, the addition of more affordable housing options, the introduction of wheelchair-accessible homes, a multi-use community room for residents and more open spaces. Gerri Bird, executive councillor for housing at Cambridge City Council and Cambridge Investment Partnership board member, said: “The regeneration of Hanover and Princess Courts is part of our ambitious house-building programme aimed at replacing existing housing stock that is in poor condition with energy efficient homes. “These improvements will not only reduce costs for residents but also enhance sustainability. I am particularly pleased to see the inclusion of purpose-built homes for those in the community with accessibility needs as part of the proposals.” Tom Hill, managing director at Hill Group, added: “This consultation is an important step towards regenerating the estate, which is no longer fit for purpose. It’s our aim to provide a larger number of high-quality, sustainable homes for the area.” The consultation will run until 11 November. Proposals can be viewed at hanoverandprincess.co.uk Images from Cambridge Investment Partnership