Joint developers Railpen and Socius are now hoping to press ahead with plans for twin offices once revisions for Botanic Place have been passed by local planners.

The proposed changes to the existing planning consent include reducing the depth of the basement and delivering both buildings in one phase to shorten construction time by 21 months.

Amendments, which are currently under review by Cambridge City Council, will significantly reduce the carbon impact of construction, improve energy efficiency and prioritise cyclists over cars.

The scheme designed by architect Allford Hall Monaghan Morris will downscale the 8-storey and 6-storey buildings, which will now share a common single floor basement, from 570,000 sq ft to 540,000 sq ft.

In line with the City Council’s Climate Change Strategy, the new plans will also significantly reduce the number of car parking spaces available and increase the number of cycle parking spaces to over 1,500, encouraging active travel modes within the city.

The construction cost is now expected to be around £200m with work hoped to start in early 2024.

Doug Higgins, Development Director at Socius, said: “We thank people who have taken the time to engage with us on these amendments and we look forward to the council determining our application in the next few months.”

Richard Van Lente, Senior Asset and Development Manager, Railpen said: “The plans for Botanic Place have incorporated feedback from the local community and will see over 200 local jobs created, the development of cafes, restaurants, a market hall promoting healthy and sustainable local food and drink, alongside the existing public house which will be renovated.

“It’s an exciting project, within a thriving knowledge-led economy and a supportive local authority who share our commitment to sustainable development.”