Plans for a new pedestrian bridge linking the Embankment with Fletton Quays will move forward following a public consultation which has resulted in an official name for the structure being chosen.
More than 500 people took part in a consultation held between 15 May – 5 June, which included an online survey and a series of public events. ‘Cygnet Bridge’ was chosen as the preferred name for the bridge out of five options, with 28 per cent of people voting for it.
Seventy-nine per cent of people who responded were in favour of the bridge, with 55 per cent stating that it would encourage them to cycle or walk more. A total of 86 per cent were in favour of a bench/benches being installed nearby and 62 per cent were in favour of an art project.
Feedback from the consultation will be incorporated into the final designs for the bridge where possible and the council is also exploring options for an art project at the site, subject to funding. The bridge is due to be completed and open in 2025.
Councillor Wayne Fitzgerald, Leader of Peterborough City Council, said: “We can now look forward to seeing Cygnet Bridge being developed and, if approved, the positive effects it will have on our city. I would like to thank everyone who took part in the consultation, providing invaluable feedback which we can incorporate this into the final plans, where possible, before the design goes to planning.”
Andy Starnes, Independent Chair of the Peterborough Towns Fund Board, said: “The bridge will create a local landmark and point of interest along the river, along with a good transport link for pedestrians and cyclists from Fletton Quays to the new University campus and Embankment area. It will also open up the waterfront for users to enjoy.”
Dr Nik Johnson, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, said: “I would like to add my thanks to everyone who took part in the consultation, allowing residents to share their views and stamp their mark on this exciting project. The bridge will help reduce motor traffic, boosting public health and air quality for everyone.”
A total of £2million has been pledged by the Government’s Towns Fund, part of the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. This money has been ring-fenced by the Government and can only be spent on this project. Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority has contributed £3.4million, with the remainder coming from Peterborough City Council’s redevelopment budget.
More information about the project, including the full consultation results can be found here.