Town Planning Update – August 2025

Forthcoming Planning Matters for St. Ives

The Civic Society will continue to keep a close eye on any planning applications affecting St. Ives. Where appropriate, objections to applications will be raised with the Town Council and the District Council respective Planning Committees.

In the coming months, there are likely to be several issues which will need consideration.

Fire Station and Clinic on Ramsey Road

As many will be aware, the site on which the Fire Station and Clinic on Ramsey Road, has been put up for sale by the County Council. It seems likely that any purchaser will want to develop the site. We shall have to be prepared to consider any planning applications relating the site.

Concern has already been expressed because a number of trees on the site are covered by TPOs (Tree Preservation Orders). The Society will wish to see them protected.

Regeneration Projects

It has been noted the District Council has selected Capital&Centric to develop regeneration projects across Huntingdon, St Neots and St Ives. The developer has stated that they will see “tired sites” in the three towns transformed. They will be focussing on providing rental homes aimed at meeting the needs of local people.

The leader of the District Council has said: “This regeneration is about more than new homes, it’s about shaping vibrant towns where people want to stay, work and build their futures.” This should link with the Civic Society’s plans to encourage the regeneration of St Ives. We have already indicated our wish to work with the developers on this work. We shall be seeking to ensure that the plans fulfil the needs of the town.

Traffic Congestion

A growing issue affecting St Ives is the increasing traffic congestion on its access roads. This is a consequence of the developments in local communities. Currently there are two significant sites in Somersham and one in Bluntisham under construction. Another site on Houghton Road, between Houghton Grange and the town has been given outline planning permission. It is likely that other sites will be put forward for development as a consequence of the District’s Local Plan review.

The Houghton, Somersham, Needingworth Roads and Harrison Way, London Road are particularly affected with traffic heading to or from the A14. This is exacerbated when the road through Earith is closed by flooding.

Whilst the County Council recognises the problem, it has stated that it is not prepared to consider another river crossing. The authority has employed consultants who have suggested improving bus services within St Ives and links to Cambridge and Huntingdon. This will not offer a solution for those living in the villages to the east of St. Ives.

The current irregular bus services from these villages are unattractive especially to those who have access to a car. The alternative is to improve those services, ensuring not only regular operation but stops are provided convenient to the developments.

The Civic Society will continue to press the County Council to reconsider the provision of a new river crossing. If and when the opportunity arises, the Society will also seek to encourage bus service improvements.