Kett House redevelopment secures green light in Cambridge

Stanhope and Bennetts Associates have secured a resolution to grant planning for the redevelopment of Kett House in Cambridge, paving the way for a new eight-storey, 160,000 sq ft office building designed to meet the highest sustainability standards and support the growing CB1 business district.

Approved by Cambridge City Council on 5 February, the proposals will replace the existing structure with contemporary, adaptable workspace defined by generous ceiling heights, flexible floorplates, and end-of-trip facilities. The scheme also delivers a series of landscaped gardens and a colonnaded public realm that extends the natural character of the nearby Botanic Garden into the development.

Sustainability is central to the design. The building will be constructed using a hybrid timber and steel frame, low-carbon UK-sourced stone offcuts for the façade, and incorporate circular economy principles including design for disassembly. Additional measures such as greywater recycling, blue roofs, and layered green roofs aim to support over 20% Biodiversity Net Gain. The project is targeting BREEAM Excellent, a 5-star NABERS rating and WiredScore Platinum certification.

David Dawson, associate at Bennetts Associates, said: “We’ve created a building that is not only sympathetic to its surroundings but will also provide a benchmark for sustainable office buildings outside London.”

The public realm will also see the return of the Kett Oak sculpture—a local landmark commemorating Robert Kett’s 1549 rebellion—helping the scheme remain rooted in the area’s history.

Laura Collins, senior development director at Stanhope, added: “Kett House is the latest example of how we are bringing forward best-in-class, innovative office developments whilst ensuring they remain part of the local community fabric.”

Planning advice was provided by Bidwells, with CBRE Investment Management acting as fund manager for the project.