The Greater Cambridge Partnership wants to make the Riverside route safer and more accessible for pedestrians and cyclists – but not everyone agrees it’s the right priority
Readers of Cambridgeshire Live have been weighing in on proposals to upgrade a well-loved riverside route in Cambridge. Many are in favour of creating a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists, while others argue that the funding would be better spent repairing the roads.
The Greater Cambridge Partnership (GCP) says Riverside is used daily by thousands of pedestrians and cyclists. The route forms part of the Bottisham Greenway.
A GCP spokesperson said: “The GCP wants to enhance Riverside to create a safer, more accessible and more enjoyable route into the city and surrounding areas.” Riverside runs from the Elizabeth Way bridge to Stourbridge Common. The GCP’s proposals include:
- Wider, more consistent footways;
- New resting spots with planting and accessible seating;
- Clearer signage and improved pedestrian crossings;
- Safe, secure cycle parking.
Jonathan Camp, GCP Project Manager, said: “Riverside is already enjoyed by many people. These proposals aim to make it safer, greener and more inviting – a place where you can move easily, meet friends or simply enjoy being by the river. We’re asking everyone who uses Riverside to tell us what they think so we can create something that reflects what the community needs.”
A public consultation on the proposals is open until Monday, 13 July, at 11.59pm. You can access the link HERE.
One reader, Nocyclinganywhere comments: “Another vanity project and complete waste of money. Another project for cyclists that will be like all the others and not get used, if cyclists want these vanity projects, they should pay for them.”
Garyblowpants writes: “A great project! More road funds should be funneled to cyclists instead of being wasted on motorists.”
Tartan53 asks: “Does the CGP have an overall plan to interfere and ‘improve’ every road in Cambridge, surprised there was no reference to the ‘millions’ of cyclists who use this route everyday.”
Bobbymcbobface says: “To be fair, when I pass through there, there are always loads of runners on the road; it may be safer if they had a proper pavement to use.”
Over on our Facebook page, Stephen R comments: “Another great development. Can’t wait.”
Frank G believes: “What a waste of money.”
Martin L-S writes: “Excellent scheme to benefit pedestrians, long overdue. As the picture shows, the pavement by the river just stops half-way along Riverside, forcing people to walk in the roadway.”
Tom R adds: “This whole riverside has huge potential (and established use). It would benefit greatly from more ‘active transport’ facilities.”
Trevor P says: “Could widen the river here to allow floating restaurants and mooring for boat trips up the river to Ely, making a proper riverside promenade with coffee stands, snacks etc.”
Sue R thinks: “Here we go again, GCP, the ones that just pop into Cambridge now and again to see how they can spend more money on vanity projects. Yes, it would be nice, definitely Camcycle would be very happy, but wouldn’t it be better to improve some of the pavements and roads that are really in need of repair first around Cambridge?
“I walk along the river there, and never have I found it to be overcrowded with ‘thousands’ of pedestrians and cyclists. Never seen an accident with the cyclists and pedestrians, although I’m not saying there hasn’t been one with the speed some of the cyclists seem to think they need to go.”
Eco Nick writes: “I remember when they sorted it out not long ago. Again? Not needed. Sorry to bang on about it, but resurface the roads. For all road users. I am totally against this plan. It is fine. I cycle it a lot. Litterpick it too.”
Does the riverside need to be improved? Comment below or HERE to have your say.

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