The Beehive Center demolished plans in Cambridge and replaced with offices, laboratories and societal spaces for their rejection by Cambridge City Council.
The Planning Officer of the Council pointed to fears that the proposed redevelopment near the Koldham neighborhood would significantly reduce daylight and sunlight for the neighboring population, which may affect the quality of their lives.
RAILPEN, director of the pension fund that owns the site, has imagined the project as the “Labor and Innovation Group” that creates a new center for the local community. The redevelopment was estimated to generate 3000 jobs, including beginners and training opportunities.
A spokesman for the railway confirmed that the rejection was based on a “one technical issue,” adding: “The Planning official in the Council acknowledged the large economic, social and environmental benefits of the project.”
Beehive Center is currently located for 17 retail units, including a large Asda supermarket, Gym Everlast, B&M Home Store, and TK Maxx. Abbey Ward is one of the most deprived areas of Cambridge, and many residents depend on the shopping center for daily necessities.
Under RAILPEN plans, current stores, cafes and entertainment facilities will be replaced with work areas and a local center with new retail and dining options. The company suggested that some of the “valuable retailers”, including ASDA, to the nearby Cambridge Retail Park, which it also possesses.
However, the local population raised concerns about the effect on access. “This will affect people who do not have cars and can walk to supermarkets here. People will have to get the car to wrap and go further,” said Dennis, a resident of Adir Ward.
The other local population expressed mixed views. “For residents, it is likely to be better because it will be quieter on weekends,” said Richard Darler, who lives near the population, but he wondered about the need for more offices and laboratory space. He added: “We got enough here in Cambridge – if not, we must build on the suburbs.”
The Green Party Advisor, Elliot Tong, which represents Abbey Ward, admitted that the Beehive Center needs improvement but raised concerns about the impact of development on society. He said: “Abbey needs this type of investment, and I am very excited about the characteristics that are placed in it.” “The question is – is society taking into account?”
The Cambridge City Planning Committee is scheduled to make a final decision on the proposal on Wednesday.