Local officials reaffirm support for controversial Cambourne and Cambridge busways, aiming to ease congestion through off-road routes.
The council supports busways to Cambourne and the southeast and agreed on this at a meeting on February 11th. The council will survey traffic on key roads, as the busways aim to bypass these busy routes. The survey will look at current traffic and future growth.
One official, Michael Atkins, spoke about the busways and mentioned they could really help the area. However, many people oppose the off-road routes. Some propose using bus lanes on existing roads instead.
The transport group studied these road alternatives and found that those routes have current and future problems. They believe the road lanes do not bring the required benefits. Locals dispute if the alternative roads are properly assessed and question journey times and the existing congestion data.
Atkins wants to show accurate congestion information and show traffic on roads like A1303 and A1307. This data would justify the need for off-road busways.
Another official, Steve Count, supports gathering more data. He thinks better information is always good and updated information can help everyone understand the facts, bringing common understanding.
The council asked for permission for the Cambourne busway in November, and people could object until January 8th. Around 300 people filed objections, and now, a public inquiry will look into it.
The council must also restate their support for the already submitted plan. They also asked for permission for the southeast busway.
This busway should offer quick bus trips. It will connect to the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. A public inquiry is probable for this busway, too. The council will reaffirm their commitment for current plans.
They voted to support both projects on Tuesday. 35 officials voted yes, while 18 voted no.