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A Conservative MP from South Cambridgeshire says Cambridge cannot become the next Silicon Valley due to water shortages.
Anthony Brown supports plans for two new reservoirs in the area, but said construction would take 20 years.
Mr Brown said on Twitter: “I will do everything in my power to stop the government’s silly plan to force massive housing construction on Cambridge. All major development is currently blocked by the Environment Agency because Cambridge is literally running out of water.” Our streams, rivers and ponds are already drying up.
“For the first time in history, the Environment Agency is systematically blocking all major new development around Cambridge for lack of water.
“There is not enough water for the existing homes, not enough for the massive expansion of the homes already planned, and not enough for the government plans for the new quarter.
“As I say, unless the government can figure out where the water is coming from, the government’s planning is over when it arrives.”
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak responded to Mr Brown’s comments.
he replied: “No one is doing any major housing construction in Cambridge. This is adding a new urban district to Cambridge, and that’s something the local community is talking about.” And of course, it’s in dialogue with the local community. ”
Meanwhile, Gove said: Cambridge, an exceptional city, cannot be held back.
“Dear Members of Parliament of Cambridgeshire, they are all friends of mine and I look forward to discussing our plans.” [them] This is to ensure that we have the highest level of agreement and support for this work. ”
“I believe it is important to bring people in, and I believe the vision we have outlined will garner support.”
Mr. Gove spoke on Monday to continue pushing for the construction of brownfield homes beyond green belts.
But Rico Wojzlevitz, head of housing and planning policy at the Housebuilders Association, said: “Mr Gove must be aware of this when defending the density models of London and Manchester, but declined to mention that both chose to use Greenbelts to successfully implement placemaking.”
“His Cambridge model will be the first test of his placemaking vision. Conservative MPs and local councils have already opposed his spatial plans and scientific superpower ambitions, but they have already been watered down by a drastic change in the government’s approach to Ox Come Ark.”