A catch-up on all things Northstowe – Spring 2025 

There’s a real buzz in Northstowe, with plenty of community and development activity underway and even more exciting things on the horizon. Whether you’ve called Northstowe home for years, just moved in, or are considering joining the community, here’s a round-up of what’s been happening around town over the past few months.  

BMX track plans given the green light  

Following a consultation last July, the planning application for Northstowe’s eagerly awaited BMX track at the Eastern Sports Hub was submitted in early 2025. This exciting facility is designed to reflect the town’s commitment to supporting active, healthy lifestyles and provide a dynamic, inclusive space for all ages to connect through sport and play. 

The track is designed as a welcome addition to Northstowe’s expanding greenways and recreational areas, forming part of a broader vision that supports resident wellbeing, outdoor living, and opportunities to come together as a community. Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for updates. 

Unity Centre breaks ground 

On Thursday 6 March 2025, South Cambridgeshire District Council officially broke ground on the Unity Centre, Northstowe’s permanent community centre located on phase 1, adjacent to the Cabin. This milestone marks an important step in the town's journey to provide high-quality spaces that bring residents together. 

Currently under construction by Kier and set to complete construction in early 2026, the Unity Centre will provide a flexible, vibrant hub for community life. It will include a large events hall, a friendly café, co-working areas, meeting rooms, a micro library, and a creative workshop space linked to a secure courtyard garden. With a focus on inclusivity, it will also feature accessible facilities, including a Changing Places toilet. 

Temporary town centre  space plans underway 

Plans to enable a new temporary commercial space in phase two of Northstowe have been submitted to the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service by Homes England. The temporary space will be capable of supporting a variety of early town centre uses while permanent facilities within the town centre area are in the process of being built. This will also help build on existing amenities in Northstowe, which include the Western Park Sports Pavillion, The Cabin Community Hub, and Northstowe Tap & Social. Stay tuned for the results of the application. 

A look back at the Oakington Airfield RAF memorial unveiling 

A new granite memorial commemorating the rich wartime history of Oakington Airfield has been installed in Northstowe. Delivered by the Airfields of Britain Conservation Trust (ABCT) and supported by Homes England, the government’s housing and regeneration agency, the marker ensures that the stories of those who served at Oakington - the site on which Northstowe’s growing community now stands - will endure for future generations. 

RAF Oakington, now part of the expanding town of Northstowe, opened in July 1940 as an RAF airfield. It played a key role in World War II, notably as the home of No. 7 Squadron and its Short Stirling planes. Since then, it has been transformed into Northstowe, a thriving community with over 1,500 households, schools, and green spaces. 

The unveiling of the memorial was a fitting tribute to the airfields' lasting legacy, ensuring its history is remembered even as the area evolves. The event brought together local residents, veterans, and local dignitaries to celebrate the heritage of the areas. 

Northstowe Holi Mela 2025 – a joyful celebration of community and culture 

In April, Northstowe Holi Mela lit up the community with a celebration of colour, music, dance, and togetherness. Organised by Hindu Samaj Northstowe, the event brought people of different ages and backgrounds together to celebrate Holi and experience the richness of Indian culture. 

With live performances, traditional workshops, and family-friendly activities, the Mela promoted cultural awareness, physical wellbeing, and social connection, creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere where everyone felt welcome. The event reflected Northstowe’s diversity and strengthened its identity as a vibrant, united town.  

Looking ahead…. 

Northstowe Arts creative get-togethers  

Supported by the Northstowe Community Activation Fund, Homes England and Northstowe Arts have announced an expanded partnership to further embed creativity and connection within the local community. Northstowe Arts will lead the development of a dynamic programme featuring free-to-attend creative gatherings, open to all. These events will offer opportunities for artistic expression, collaboration, and cultural enrichment across the town. A new community podcast series will also be launched, showcasing local voices, stories, and creative projects, highlighting the unique character and spirit of Northstowe. This continued collaboration marks a significant step in shaping a more vibrant, connected, and creative Northstowe. 

Midsummer Festival – Saturday 21 June 2025 

Northstowe Hub CIO is preparing to host the town’s second annual midsummer festival this June. The event will bring neighbours, performers, and local groups together for a full day of music, dance, games, heritage, food, and fun. It is set to be a great opportunity to connect with others and celebrate the diversity and spirit of Northstowe. 

Summer Tournament at Western Park Pavilion

Willingham Wolves FC is set to host its hugely popular annual 5-a-side Summer Tournament at Western Park Pavilion on 7th, 8th, 21st, and 22nd June. This exciting event will welcome over 270 teams and around 1,500 young players from across the county, making it one of the region’s biggest grassroots football showcases.

With fast-paced matches, a vibrant family-friendly atmosphere, and plenty of local talent on display, it’s a fantastic weekend out for football fans of all ages. Whether you're cheering on a team or just soaking up the action, this tournament is not to be missed.

Northstowe is entering an exciting new chapter. With new spaces, events, and opportunities unfolding, this is a place designed to support growth, creativity, and connection. Whether you are looking for somewhere to meet, relax, cycle, create, or celebrate, there is something here for everyone. Together, Northstowe Town and its residents are building a dynamic, pioneering, and welcoming community that truly dares to be different.  

Keep your eyes peeled for further updates through 2025!