Residents oppose college's housing plan

People living near a university college have spoken of their concerns about a proposed development of student accommodation.

The University of Cambridge's Hughes Hall submitted plans earlier this year to build on land next to the city's famous Fenner's Cricket Ground

The land was bought in 2024 with plans to build accommodation that the college said was needed to house more students on campus, but residents have claimed the development is "excessive" and say they fear for the future of cricket at the site.

Sir Laurie Bristow, president of Hughes Hall, said the project followed "a great deal of careful design work and engagement with our neighbours, students and the wider Cambridge community".

Eileen O'Brien, landlady of the Six Bells on Covent Garden, said she was "dreading" the college getting permission for the Wileman Court building because it would overlook the pub's back garden.

"Hughes Hall says it has consulted with residents, but the college does not appear to have heard our opinions, she added.

Elizabeth McCord, 73, said: "I've lived here for over 40 years – I bought the house in 1984 when it was derelict – and I'm facing the prospect of the peace and quiet I bought it for being taken away.

"I have had sleepless nights – it just gets in my head what's going to happen – I'm extremely worried."

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the college said it had reduced the height and length of Wileman Court and moved it further away from neighbouring properties on Covent Garden.

The college added that the majority of new development had been moved to "previously developed areas" such as the existing car park and within the proposed porters' lodge, providing 82 of the 116 proposed student bedrooms.

Sir Laurie added: "We are grateful to everyone who has taken the time to engage with us and provide feedback.

"That feedback has helped us refine the proposals, and we believe the plans provide a sensitive and sustainable way of investing in Hughes Hall for future generations, while delivering wider benefits for our neighbours and the city."

Hughes Hall said that the development would not affect cricket, as the pitch will not be built on, but opponents have said the loss of the car park would harm its ability to host large matches.

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