A study has been launched to examine potential mass rapid transit options

Locals and commuters have said that the tram and light rail transport options that could be considered for Cambridge would “cause chaos” while others said it could “help waiting times”. A study has been launched to examine potential mass rapid transit options to support future growth in the city including tram and light rail.

Cambridge Growth Company (CGC) and Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA), have launched the preparation of a Project level Strategic Outline Business Case for a potential Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system in the city. The study is to investigate creating fast, and reliable public transport like trams to reduce traffic congestion and connect key areas.

The new commission will include identifying and appraising a longlist of transport options, from lower scale interventions to full MRT model possibilities, including tram, light rail, bus rapid transit, and automated systems.

This has been commissioned by the Department for Transport, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, and the HM Treasure.

We spoke to some locals and commuters in Cambridge about their opinions on the transport options to be considered.

Vera Mmeni, who was in Cambridge for work, said trams in Cambridge could help with waiting times for commuters.

Ben Negus, 42, has lived in Cambridge for more than eight years. He said that adding trams to the city “may be pushing it a bit”. He thinks that the buses and Park & Ride routes are effective but “Cambridge wouldn’t suit” adding further transport options like trams.

Ben highlighted the “unique style” of the city as well as the busyness so he could see both sides to the matter.

Others were not so keen on the transport options to be considered in the city. A 62-year-old who wished to remain anonymous said that trams or light rail transport would “cause chaos”.

She continued: “It is bad enough with the traffic nowadays, what is it going to be like if they plan to put trams in?”

The 62-year-old believes that in comparison with London, the roads are smaller and narrow and the city doesn’t have the space that other big cities have.

Marcus Arnold, 55, from Cottenham likes the idea because he believes it will attract tourists. He added: “I like the idea of trams, it would go together well with Cambridge. They have a long way to go for that one. What a beautiful idea.”

Tony Johnson, who lives in Cambridge said that “it would create more chaos and I don’t see the point.” Tony chooses to walk through the city to save money. He said that the busways work, however he doesn’t believe that other mass rapid transit options like trams and light rail would be effective.