A transformative plan to build 10,000 homes and create 9,000 new jobs has been unveiled following the acquisition of Cambridge Airport and surrounding land by Homes England and The Hill Group. The project, named Cambridge East, will also feature a new railway station, a stadium, film studios, and other venues, according to developers.
Details of the Development
Andy Hill, founder and chief executive of The Hill Group, stated: "Our plans include 10,000 homes, it could be a little bit more, a new railway station, major infrastructure as well as a park and ride." Homes England described Cambridge East as "one of the UK's largest urban extension projects" after purchasing the site from the Marshall Group.
The development will cover approximately 700 acres and include about three million square feet (278,709 square meters) of commercial space. Marshall Aerospace, currently based at the airport, will relocate its operations by mid-2029, with an initial phase of up to 500 homes starting the same year.
Community and Sustainability
Mr. Hill emphasized that the Cambridge East development offers "a unique opportunity to create a thriving, sustainable new neighbourhood" in the region. He assured local residents that they would have a chance to inform the masterplan, ensuring the project delivers what the community wants. The developers are "open to all ideas" and aim to make Cambridge East "the destination people come to when they visit Cambridge."
Amy Rees, chief executive of Homes England, said: "This is a fantastic example of how public and private sector collaboration can bring forward much-needed new homes, helping to create a new sustainable community that delivers real opportunities and long-term benefits for local people."
Transport and Economic Impact
The proposed Cambridge East station would connect the new neighbourhood to central Cambridge, London, Bedford, and Oxford, enhancing regional connectivity. Housing Secretary Steve Reed called the plans "exactly the type of new community this country is crying out for," adding that the new homes would help people get on the housing ladder, supported by good jobs, modern transport links, and green spaces.
Peter Freeman CBE, Chair of the Cambridge Growth Company, remarked: "Cambridge East is a once in a generation opportunity to transform a site that has played an important role in Cambridge’s history into a truly exceptional new neighbourhood for the city and generations to come."
