We need a third bridge while preserving town character, says community
A third bridge over the Waikato River has emerged as the top priority for the community, after the first round of public feedback for Waipā District Council's Cambridge Connections project.
Public feedback closed on Monday, October 27, with Council receiving 254 responses. Council asked the community what kind of town they want for future generations, and the transport solutions needed to get there.
Executive director Katie Mayes said it was a great response at this early stage in the project: “It’s testament to our community spirit that we’ve received so much thoughtful feedback in this first stage of Cambridge Connections. There was a lot of expertise and knowledge evident in the responses.”
The most common theme was the need for a third bridge, mentioned by 58 percent of respondents. Many linked this to reducing congestion, which was raised by around half of all participants, along with the need to ease freight pressure and provide transport routes that free up the town centre.
Protecting Cambridge’s unique character came through strongly, with many valuing the people-friendly town centre, leafy streets and vibrant shops. There was a strong desire to maintain the village feel as the town grows.
Support for a greater variety of transport options was widespread, including bus routes in town, walking, cycling and accessible options for all ages, stages and abilities. “We’ve heard the community’s call to keep Cambridge connected, beautiful, safe, and accessible for all,” said Mayes. “This feedback will inform Council as it develops a transport plan that supports the community’s vision for generations to come.”
Feedback was sought from mana whenua, the Community Reference Group, online Ideas Forum and the wider public.
“This is just the first stage of Cambridge Connections, and the community will have the chance to inform the project at every step of the way.”
Next steps
Cambridge Connections is building a business case to seek funding from the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi. Public feedback received so far will inform the first step in this process, which is to define key transport ‘problems and benefits’, to meet NZTA requirements. In December, Elected Members will decide on the ‘problem statements’ as part of the strategic case, and the first stage of Cambridge Connections will be complete.
