As the City Councillor for Petersfield, an area that covers half of Mill Road, I’ve been closely following the discussions around the new bus gate and spoke out about it before it was introduced in March.
We’ve just heard that over 4600 fines for using the gate have been issued to drivers, as only buses, emergency services, taxis and blue badge holders’ registered vehicles are allowed to use the bridge. The number of fines has raised questions about the adequacy of signage and general understanding of what a bus gate means. I was pleased to have a chance to discuss this with Dotty Mcleod on BBC Radio Cambridgeshire this morning (around 08:15).
The new Combined Authority Mayor has also weighed in, following up his campaign pledge to work to open up the bridge, alithough he acknowledges he currently lacks the authority to make such changes, and in my view he should be focusing on the more strategic transport issues that fall within his authority
My primary focus, however, is on how we can move forward together. When the order was put in, I argued for a six-month review of its impact and effectiveness. I still believe a one-year review would be more beneficial than the planned two-year timeframe. as it would allow us to assess the impact across a full cycle of school terms and holidays and allow for changes to be made. I also question whether a 24/7 closure is absolutely necessary, or if a more nuanced approach could achieve the policy goals without such a blanket restriction for local people.
Continue reading “What next for Mill Road?”