Cambridge Connections transport review finalist in national awards 

The technical work underpinning the Cambridge Connections project has been recognised on the national stage at this year’s transport planning awards.

The Cambridge Connections Strategic Transport Network Review was one of three finalists in the Local Project category of the Transport Planning Society Aotearoa New Zealand awards.

The awards were announced on Monday, Transport Planning Day. While the project did not take out the award, being named a finalist recognises the quality and the importance of the work to understand Cambridge's transport challenges and plan for the town's future.

Waipā District Council worked with Beca to complete the strategic network review. It looked at how Cambridge’s transport network works today and what will be needed over the next 30 years.

Cambridge is expected to grow by about 15,000 residents during that time, which means an estimated 40,000 to 50,000 more vehicle trips per day by 2055.

Growth, Strategy and Planning Director Katie Mayes says the finalist recognition is a credit to the technical work and collaboration behind the project.

“Planning for a growing Cambridge is a significant undertaking. We need to understand how people will move around the town in the future, where the pressure points will be, and what options are available.

“Being named a finalist is great recognition of the work our team and Beca have put into building that evidence base. It also reflects the contribution of our Community Reference Group, technical advisers and Elected Members, who helped inform the review along the way.”

The review brought together transport modelling, land-use planning and future travel forecasts. It considered access to schools, jobs, healthcare and the town centre, as well as options for public transport, walking and cycling, and connections between Cambridge, Hamilton and the wider region.

Its findings provide the technical foundation for the draft Cambridge Connections Transport Plan, which sets out a proposed long-term direction for managing transport as Cambridge grows.

Importantly, the draft plan is now out for public consultation, giving the community an opportunity to have its say on the proposed transport network and the choices facing Cambridge over the next 30 years.

Consultation is open until Sunday, November 22.

Have your say and find out more at www.waipadc.govt.nz/cc-feedback

Transport Planning Society Aotearoa New Zealand represents and champions the transport planning profession in Aotearoa New Zealand and is part of the UK-based Transport Planning Society.