News
Executive Board takes decisions on key transport schemes
Published 29 September 2023
Our Executive Board has taken key decisions on vital transport projects that aim to significantly improve the way people travel.
Members set out the next steps for the Waterbeach to Cambridge busway, Cambridge Eastern Access, and Greenways projects, and carefully considered papers on the Making Connections proposals and the GCP’s Future Investment Strategy at a meeting on Thursday.
Waterbeach to Cambridge
The Board approved the outline business case for the Waterbeach to Cambridge project and the revised central route for a new dedicated busway alongside a travel hub to the west of the A10 to connect Waterbeach New Town with the city.
The revised central route was the most popular among the 388 responses to a public consultation held earlier this year, with the proposed travel hub (option C) potentially including new cycle parking, electric charging points and click and collect services.
The project would give greater access to people travelling to work, education and meeting friends and family, while helping to cut congestion along the A10 with thousands of new homes due to be created over the coming years.
The GCP will now carry out preliminary design work and an Environmental Impact Assessment to prepare for the submission of a Transport and Works Act Order to government.
Cambridge Eastern Access
The Cambridge Eastern Access (CEA) scheme – which aims to deliver better walking, cycling and bus journeys along the Newmarket Road – is to be progressed in stages.
- The board asked for detailed designs to be worked up for phase one of the CEA project along Newmarket Road from the Chisholm Trail to Airport Way. The proposals include a new Cycle Optimised Protected Signals (CYCLOPS) junction at the Barnwell Road roundabout.
- Members agreed to revisit proposals to enhance the Elizabeth Way roundabout to allow for the development of a wider strategy for the area to reflect the emerging Beehive Centre and Grafton Centre developments.
- Officers were directed to work with the Executive Board and Joint Assembly to review the alternative sites for a Newmarket Road Travel Hub.
Future Investment Strategy - Cambridge South East Transport and Foxton Travel Hub projects
The Board agreed to pause phase two of the Cambridge South East Transport project and the Foxton Travel Hub scheme against the backdrop of rising inflation, which is impacting the GCP’s programme and construction projects around the country.
The business case for the CSET scheme demonstrated the busway in phase 2 is the most suitable solution to the planned growth at the Cambridge Biomedical Campus which is why the GCP will continue to seek funding to deliver both CSET2 and the Foxton Travel Hub.
Proposals for a new bridge over the A505 to create a fully continuous walking and cycling route to Royston as part of Melbourn Greenway will be developed after additional funds were identified as part of the Future Investment Strategy analysis.
Making Connections
