The Chesterton Partnership, a Brookgate-led joint venture (JV), has appointed blocwork, a JV partnership between developer bloc and Network Rail Property, to deliver the residential phase of the Cambridge North development in the UK.

Cambridge North is emerging as a new hub around the Cambridge North station, envisioned as a gateway to north-east Cambridge.

This development, comprising more than 400 homes, will be the first project by blocwork, set to begin later this year, as part of a broader goal to deliver over 40,000 new homes over the next decade.

The residential plans at Cambridge North follow the delivery of a Novotel Hotel and the One Cambridge Square office building, which is already over 75% leased.

The master plan, which received consent last year, includes not only the residential units but also 53,700m² of commercial space on the site of former derelict railway sidings.

The residential quarter of Cambridge North is designed with sustainability in mind, aspiring to establish a community with ultra-low car usage.

Situated two-and-a-half miles from Cambridge City Centre, the development will be connected by public transport and cycling routes, with additional improvements to cycleways planned to bolster sustainable travel options.

Central to the Cambridge North residential development is the creation of a new green space, designed to serve the local community. This space will be complemented by a biodiverse area for both residents and visitors.

Brookgate CEO Sven Topel said: “The residential quarter is a vital part of the vision for creating an open and accessible mixed-use neighbourhood at Cambridge North. Alongside our partners, we look forward to working with Network Rail Property and bloc as they partner to deliver high-quality homes in a sustainable location that supports the continued growth of Cambridge.

"The vision for the new live/work community at Cambridge North will provide an attractive and vibrant gateway from the station to surrounding areas.”

Network Rail group property director Robin Dobson added: “This is a fantastic opportunity to unlock disused railway land and create a new residential quarter adjacent to Cambridge North station. As the largest owner of brownfield land in Great Britain, we are able to unlock strategically important sites such as this as we continue to play a central role in delivering sustainable housing to drive future growth.

"We look forward to working with all neighbours and key stakeholders such as The Crown Estate to deliver a new neighbourhood which acts as a catalyst to adjacent sites."

In related news, Network Rail Property has recently submitted a planning application for the redevelopment of London's Liverpool Street station.