Planning permission has been granted for a new pedestrian, cycle, and equestrian bridge over the A10 at Waterbeach. The bridge is a significant part of a series of investments in cycle infrastructure coming forward to support the development of the former Barracks, as it is transformed into a new community of 6,500 homes, schools and community facilities and over 350 acres of parks and green space. It will connect the development with the new Mere Way Cycle Route which will provide links to Landbeach village and critically with the major employment centres at Cambridge Science Park, and onward cycle links to the City and Cambridge West.
The fluid design of the new bridge pays homage to both the aviation history at Waterbeach and the natural landscape in the area, with the contrasting use of white and dark grey in the sculpted edge beams and deck / parapet sections creating a silhouette effect, ensuring the bridge sits modestly in the landscape. The approaches to the bridge are also designed as gently sloped and vegetated embankments, not only blending the structure within the immediate landscape but also providing users with an accessible, comfortable, and enjoyable experience as they use it.
The investment into the bridge forms part of a package of improvements being delivered, which focus on sustainable and active travel including Mere Way, upgrades to the A10 cycle path, investment in bus services and a new sustainable travel hub which will sit at the Gateway of the development. Works commence on the new route on Mere Way this summer and the bridge will be installed in early 2023. This will ensure these key pieces of infrastructure are in place before new residents move in in early 2023.
Caroline Foster, Project Director for Waterbeach at Urban&Civic, added:
“The new A10 bridge highlights our vision, commitment to and investment in sustainable transport. Not only will it provide a robust connection for the new cycle connection to the Science Park for future commuters, but it will also support connections between Waterbeach and Landbeach to help local people access the new services and amenities coming forward within the development in a sustainable way. We’re delighted to have secured planning for this elegant structure and excited about making sure its delivery is a key part of the sustainable delivery of the new community.”
The new A10 bridge highlights our vision, commitment to and investment in sustainable transport.
