What transport for Cambridge

The policy of development restraint in Cambridge has resulted in traffic congestion as the daily influx of workers from outside the city exceeds those dwelling there. Current public transport is not considered viable for many of these journeys. A full study of the transport options for the Cambridge area was undertaken by a consortium of local business leaders, politicians, local government officers, professionals and academics. Options considered include: cycling / walking, public transport, orbital road network improvements, congestion charging, and a combination of options. Expansion of the built-up areas of the city and overall sub-regional growth is likely to cause more congestion. The cycling and walking option improvements were considered worthwhile in any case. The public transport option improved sustainability but the costs were too great for the benefits likely to be obtained. The orbital highway would provide substantial benefits in terms of savings in money, time and convenience. Congestion charging had benefits of time savings, reduced congestion and reduced carbon emission but the overal user benefits were negative. The combination option generated positive economic and environmental benefits and the congestion charge component could partially fund the public transport and highway improvements. Only options including a congestion charge resulted in a change in modal split.