The North West Cambridge Development Masterplan is designed to create a new district and extension to the city of Cambridge, centred on a mixed academic and urban community. The project, for the University of Cambridge, uses design, architecture and planning to advance the institution’s role in leading the future of a knowledge-based economy.
AECOM’s Design and Planning team has applied its experience in masterplanning to develop a scheme that reflects the collegiate urbanism that is Cambridge’s trademark, taking into account how people’s lives shape, and are shaped, by their environments. The project represents the largest capital development the University has undertaken in its 800-year history, including up to 1,500 affordable homes for University and College staff, 1,500 private homes, accommodation for 2,000 post-graduates, 100,000 square metres of academic and commercial research space, a primary school, community centre, hotel, senior living, parklands, playing fields, sustainable transport and an extensive cycle network.
The masterplan was selected by a jury of some of the world’s most dynamic architects and designers, winning the competition from a shortlist of ten entries.
The jury commended the project, saying: “The masterplan is a highly competent response to an enlightened client brief, with a well resolved sustainability and landscape strategy, and incorporates socially sustainable mix-uses. The project stood out for its environmental sustainability and cultural sensitivity.”
Jonathan Rose, Principal, Design and Planning, AECOM commented on the win: “The University of Cambridge gave us a robust brief to address connectivity, community, character and climate, while being mindful of the UNESCO-listed town centre and unique university setting. Since construction commenced a year ago we have watched our masterplan come alive and it is an honour to have our work recognised by WAF’s panel of architects and designers who are at the top of their game.”
Roger Taylor, Project Director of the North West Cambridge Development said: “We are thrilled that the AECOM masterplan has been recognised at the World Architectural Festival. The masterplan reflects the character and qualities of Cambridge that we anticipate will see the development, the University, and Cambridge into its next chapter.”
The project received planning permission in 2013 and phase one of construction is currently underway. Phased completions are scheduled from 2015 with the full development expected to be delivered by 2030.