Used by up to 3,000 people a day to walk and cycle around Cambridge, phase one of the Chisholm Trail is celebrating three years since it first opened.

Since 23 December 2021, the route which currently takes people from Cambridge North to Coldhams Lane has become a much used and safe path for anyone setting out on the trail.

The route which is mostly off-road and traffic-free, will eventually take people all the way to Cambridge Central station linking the science parks in the north of the city to Cambridge Biomedical Campus in the south.

This year, as usage continued to grow, people and organisations had their say on how the trail has made a difference.

Alex Tunbridge, Chief Executive Officer of Cambridge United, said: “Since the trail opened, we have seen an increase in people using bikes on a match day to come to our games, but also the number of people coming from Cambridge North Station.

“The Chisholm Trail has made a big impact not only for supporters walking to the stadium but for those coming on the train, as well as those cycling and coming by e-scooter. The Chisholm Trail is critical in connecting the North and South of Cambridge.”

Mary, a resident from Cambridge, said: “I love this trail. It’s improved [how we travel] – suddenly you can get from Coldham’s Common all the way to Cambridge North Station. I really appreciate the thought and care that’s gone into the planting, the trees, and wildflowers.”

Mike, a regular Chisholm Trail user, said: “I use the trail for walking the dog, so going from the river all the way to Coldham’s Common is really nice. It’s added to the [transport] options, which is great.”

Cllr Elisa Meschini, Chair of the Greater Cambridge Partnership, said: “I remember the opening of the trail like it was yesterday and given the usage it’s fair to say it’s been a great success as we see thousands of people use the route every day. It’s been lovely to hear how people use the trail from the obvious like going to work or getting to school to those people who use it for dog walks and as a place for a reflective walk or for life events like teaching a child how to ride a bike. I am sure there will be even more stories in the future and I will always be incredibly proud that we at the Greater Cambridge Partnership are delivering schemes which make such a difference to people’s lives.”

An update on phase two of the trail was presented at November’s GCP’s executive board meeting, which heard how an agreement has been reached in principle with Network Rail and Greater Anglia for the Cavendish Road to Clifton Road section of the proposed route.

Members agreed to work in partnership with Cambridge City Council on the section of the trail at the Great Eastern car park and Cromwell Road which would include public engagement.

Find out more about the trail on the project page