24/Three breaks ground on new Build-to-Rent neighbourhood at Waterbeach
Work is now officially underway on a new 90-home Build-to-Rent development at Waterbeach in Cambridgeshire, designed by 24/Three for Urban&Civic.
The new homes form part of the wider regeneration of the former Waterbeach Barracks and Airfield, delivering a mix of high quality two, three and four bedroom rental homes for families and professionals. Designed at medium density, the scheme focuses on principles of neighbourliness, long-term living and creating a strong sense of place within the emerging community.
Located on the Western side of the masterplan, the new scheme overlooks Waterbeach Lake and is close to the site of the future Deneia Primary School, approved in phase one and scheduled to complete in 2027. The development knits in to the wider network of landscaped public spaces, walking routes and cycleways across the new neighbourhood.
24/Three has designed a characterful and varied streetscape featuring gable-front differentiated terraces and townhouses, with a carefully considered palette of brick tones and materials that reflect the local architectural character and create visual interest.
The pedestrian-first layout prioritises connections to green spaces, schools and the wider neighbourhood amenities. To the north of the site, Waterbeach Gardens provides naturally planted open space alongside a shared pedestrian and cycle route and a local play area. The homes have been positioned to overlook these spaces, helping create an active, well-connected neighbourhood that encourages everyday interaction and informal supervision of the public realm.
Drawing on the practice’s experience in multi-residential design, 24/Three has developed the scheme to support long-term tenancies through carefully planned layouts, efficient use of space and a strong emphasis on community-focused public realm design, whilst embedding Cambridgeshire’s high architectural standards.
Sustainability has also been central to the project, with Air Source Heat Pumps replacing gas boilers and solar panels for energy efficiency as well as cycle stores and EV charging points provided for all residents.
Sheleendra Fernando, Founder of 24/Three, said:
“This project has been a fantastic opportunity to create homes that respond to the ambition and quality of the wider Waterbeach masterplan approved by South Cambridgeshire District Council, while supporting Urban&Civic’s strong design principles around placemaking, sustainability and community.
“For us, Build-to-Rent developments also allow us to think differently about housing choice - designing homes and neighbourhoods specifically for long-term renters by carefully considering the amenities, flexibility and sense of community people need to put down roots and stay for the long term. Seeing the scheme now on-site is a proud moment for the whole team.”
24/Three worked closely with Urban&Civic throughout the design process to ensure the homes responded positively to the area’s detailed design code while remaining practical, deliverable and sustainable.
“Working with 24/Three has been an enjoyable experience. Their deep knowledge of Cambridgeshire's architectural design reflects a deep understanding of local aesthetics and planning requirements. The team's ability to navigate the complex and often onerous design guidelines with a systematic and well-thought-out approach was central to us instructing them in the first place. From start to finish, they demonstrated expertise, creativity, and attention to detail, delivering a scheme which matched our high expectations. I would recommend 24/Three for anyone looking to create a project that not only complies with but enhances the unique character of Cambridgeshire.”
Nigel Wakefield, Development Director – Urban&Civic
New Town has been identified as a key location for housing growth in Greater Cambridge, where local plans are targeting tens of thousands of new homes to support the area’s continued economic and population growth. Urban&Civic is developing three parcels of land into a new community of up to 6500 new homes as part of the South Cambridgeshire Local Plan.
Build-to-Rent (BtR) developments are purpose-designed homes created specifically for long-term rental rather than private sale. Typically managed by a single operator, BtR schemes focus on providing professionally managed, high-quality homes with a strong emphasis on community, sustainability and resident experience. The model has become an increasingly important part of the UK’s housing delivery strategy, helping to provide greater choice and flexibility for people who want high-quality rental homes in well-connected neighbourhoods.
Author: Sarah Worth
