LUC supported AtkinsRéalis on the Infrastructure Delivery Plan (IDP) for the Greater Cambridge Local Plan and North East Cambridge Area Action Plan (AAP). We led on the green infrastructure and open space elements.

Despite its vital role in shaping future-proofed, healthier places, local authorities often struggle to prioritise green and blue infrastructure through their Local Plans.

LUC's work on IDPs seeks to put GBI on an equal footing with transport, utilities, and community services. This supports joined-up decisions about growth, helping Greater Cambridge plan for a healthy, climate-resilient future.

The IDP addresses the infrastructure needs created by over 50,000 planned homes and 66,000 new jobs. As part of the Councils' wider ambitions, it will be vital that this growth is accompanied by a robust GBI network.

By aligning green space planning with housing and economic growth, we help deliver sustainable places that support people and nature.

Our work reflects local climate and biodiversity emergency declarations. We identified how open space, access to nature, and habitat connectivity can meet multiple infrastructure needs.

This includes improving biodiversity and protecting it from increased recreational pressure, as well as reducing flood risk and supporting healthier lifestyles in new and existing communities.

We reviewed policies, existing IDPs and held in-depth conversations with key stakeholders. We then applied clear metrics and GIS mapping to identify where and when infrastructure is required.

Our flexible model allows the councils to update the plan as growth and funding evolve.

The IDP supports Local Plan development and future funding decisions, including how to best target developer contributions. That means setting clear priorities.

It provides a template for how other councils can embed green infrastructure in infrastructure planning – moving beyond policy statements to delivery.