2025 Eddington Highlights

This year, the University of Cambridge has continued vital investment in the future of Eddington and Cambridge West. Progress on new homes and community initiatives showcase the University’s commitment to placemaking at Eddington, while extensive conversations with residents and stakeholders have helped to shape the future of the neighbourhood. Take a look at some of our highlights.

Creating a vibrant neighbourhood

Our pop-up events, including the flagship Eddington Beer Garden and our seasonal Winter Welcome, have activated Eddington Square this year. Together, the exciting programme of events have welcomed thousands of people to the neighbourhood to enjoy food, drink, and entertainment – all whilst supporting local entrepreneurs and businesses. Our first Eddington Carnival took place in September, celebrating the area’s rich multicultural community.

Community-led initiatives flourished this year, including:

Eddington Community Orchestra: a multi-generational community of musicians making music under the leadership of Laurie Friday.
Grow Club: a resident-led group planting herbs, plants, fruits and vegetables.
Park Yoga: a 20-week free outdoor yoga session for all.
Eddie’s Community Café, run by New Life Church: a weekly free tea and cake event open to all.
A new Parkrun route at Brook Leys: continuing to break records as the fastest parkrun in Cambridge.
Numerous events and initiatives organised by individuals and supported by the Eddington Residents Association and many others in the community, including astronomy walks, nature tours, holiday lunches and more!

The continued transformation of Eddington Square also saw the opening of R3FORM Pilates Studio in the summer, further strengthening the thriving local independent retail scene.

Planning the Future Phases of North West Cambridge

Extensive work has taken place this year to update the masterplan for the future phases of North West Cambridge, with opportunities for the local community to engage and help shape the design of the neighbourhood. Over three rounds of formal consultation, community engagement events and the Eddington Edition newsletter we explored topics important to the community, including the urban design of new homes, active transport routes, green and open space, sustainability (including nature and water), and play and activity spaces.

We are grateful for the wide-ranging conversations with members of Eddington and neighbouring communities, local stakeholders and politicians. Their input has informed the development proposals submitted to the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning service, which now seek approval for the outline planning consent.

In addition, the University’s development activities have included:

The transition from a joint venture to sole University management of the Storey’s Field Centre which continues to be retained for community use;
Advanced discussions with the NHS to begin the design and fit-out of the Eddington Health Centre, which is expected to open in 2026;
Trailing the AV Connector bus across Eddington and Cambridge West, using cutting-edge technology to support local connectivity led by the Greater Cambridge Partnership.

We are also delighted our commitment to creating a high quality development has been recognised this year through a number of industry awards, including those from Building Magazine and RIBA.

Looking ahead, 2026 will be another exciting year. The University and its partners are working hard towards delivering much-needed homes in the city which will support innovation-led growth, all the while continuing to create a long-lasting, sustainable place that is welcome to all.