7,000 more houses needed for Cambridge
27 April 2017
Cambridge will need more than 7,000 more houses by 2050 to cope with projected population growth.
More than 30,000 people are projected to be living in the town within the next 30-35 years - an increase of more than 14,000 residents.
These figures and more are outlined in Waipa District Council's draft Waipa 2050 District Growth Strategy. The strategy outlines what growth is projected for the district and details how Council proposes managing it.
Cambridge's projected growth will demand a further 582 hectares of new residential land be developed around the town by 2050. Until 2035, that growth will be largely centred in the northwest bordering the town belt. Planning for that area is already well underway.
By 2035, Council wants enough residential land ready for around 5,700 more houses - including the 1,044 houses already allowed for in Cambridge north. It is also planning for another 36 hectares of industrial land at Hautapu.
A mix of residential and high density housing is being proposed. Some residential sections of 600-800m2 will be available along with compact residential housing on 300-400m2 lots. These may include stand-alone houses, semi-detached, terraced housing or low-rise, walk-up apartments. All housing will be close to open space as well as walking and cycling links.
Provision is also being made for two new neighbourhood shopping centres. The first on Victoria Road opposite Norfolk Drive may include three or four retail stores, a supermarket and community facilities. A larger shopping centre is proposed near Hamilton Road with enough space for 12-14 stores, a supermarket and a central community space.
Deputy chief executive David Hall said Council was aware of the value placed on Cambridge's character and had allowed for features to be retained and enhanced.
We are proposing continuing large green street frontages and tree-lined streets and would like to continue the existing street grid pattern. We want strong walking and cycling links and local playgrounds and informal play spaces that are very easily accessible, Hall said.
A number of new formal sports fields are proposed. Overall we've allowed for 15 per cent of green space within each new growth area but of course, that's all open to feedback.
Huge work has already been undertaken to consider how infrastructure like roads, water and storm water will be provided to new housing and other developments.
A booklet called What's the Story? has been developed to summarise what's proposed. The booklet is available from Council offices and libraries and will be online from May 1 at www.futurewaipa.co.nz.
Public feedback is being sought on the draft strategy until early June. Public information sessions will be held at the Council office in Wilson Street in Cambridge on May 4 and May 10 from 4pm- 7pm.
For more information, contact: Nicole Nooyen 027 807 3478
