A decision on the final plans for the Cambourne to Cambridge busway has been delayed by two months at the same time as its recommended route is subject to change.

The final plans were expected to be released in September, to go before the Greater Cambridge Partnership’s Joint Assembly and Board in September and October respectively.

The board will now decide the plans in December.

A GCP spokesperson confirmed the delay is a result of modelling work to support the business case not being completed in time.

Busway's recommended route could change

The recommended route where the busway enters central Cambridge is now also subject to change.

The recommended route was previously going to link the busway with Grange Road, via the Rifle Range Track.

The option of buses entering the road system at Adams Road will now be looked at again by the GCP in more detail.

The local democracy reporting service understands Adams Road is now the more likely option.

The GCP released a statement addressing the possible change of preferred route: “We have always been clear that we are continuing to refine the route for the Cambourne to Cambridge scheme ahead of it being presented to our Executive Board later this year.

“As part of this, the GCP is considering the best way of connecting the section from West Cambridge to Grange Road following further detailed assessment of the two possible options – either via the Rifle Range or via Adams Road.

“We know that people living on Adams Road and the surrounding areas are concerned about traffic and space for shared road use. We will be engaging with landowners and residents before an assessment of both options is considered by our board as part of their decision on the scheme in December.”

The GCP will be writing to residents in the affected area tomorrow, and will hold a drop-in session on September 17 inn Clare Hall to respond to explain the proposals and respond to residents concerns.

Why was the original recommended route favoured?

The originally recommended route via the Rifle Range was preferred for the following reasons:

  • Allows for segregated rapid transit infrastructure, providing a quick and reliable route.

  • Provides additional cycling and walking capacity to support West Cambridge.

  • Minimises impact on West Cambridge conservation area.

  • Avoids ecologically sensitive area between West Cambridge and Wilberforce Road.

  • Habitat creation opportunity around Bin Brook area in arable land.

  • Least impact on residents and most benefits to cyclists, passengers and pedestrians.