The government has provided funding for a year-long study into electric autonomous vehicles

A road designated for self-driving vehicles could form part of plans for the expansion of a Cambridgeshire science park. Wellcome Genome Campus is investigating the potential for a dedicated route for electric autonomous vehicles between its Hinxton-based site and Whittlesford Parkway railway station.

The campus said it had received funding from the government to carry out a year-long study. It aims to create a safe, sustainable, and reliable way for people travelling to and from the campus.

Robert Evans, Chief Executive campus, said it would be “game-changing” for the site. He continued: “As we progress with our major expansion – which will see our Campus triple in size over the next 10-15 years – we are looking at new transport solutions that support sustainable growth and better connectivity.”

The campus runs shuttle buses and coaches to and from Whittlesford Parkway. A spokesperson for the Wellcome Genome Campus said a dedicated road for the autonomous vehicles would make it easier for workers and visitors to reach the campus, offer predictable journey times, and help to cut congestion and emissions.

The proposed road could enable a controlled environment for the self-driving vehicles without mixing in normal traffic. The study is funded as part of the CAM Pathfinder Programme by UK Government.