New bus gates set to close off residential roads to traffic in Cambs city

The bus gates would create a ‘shortcut’ for public transport

Car and motorbike access to residential roads within a Stanground estate is set to be restricted, according to plans. Proposals released by Peterborough City Council show that bus gates are to open on both Apollo Avenue and Bellona Drive in Cardea.

A bus gate is a short, camera-enforced section of road restricted to buses, cyclists, and authorised vehicles like taxis. These gates are designed to create ‘shortcuts’ for public transport by restricting general traffic from passing through in the hope that congestion will be reduced and air quality improved.

The plans state: “The effect of this Order is to restrict the use of the following roads to Local Buses, Taxis and Pedal Cycles, at all times: Apollo Avenue from its junction with Peterborough Road to a point 30m east of that junction, Bellona Drive between the roundabout at its junction with Whittlesey Road and its junction with Constantine Drive.”

The plans have received a mixed response from local people on social media. Colin Walton said on Facebook.: “Buses down Apollo and Bellona; are you mad? The roads are too thin!”

Paul Jeffrey remarked that “buses will never get up or down” unless yellow lines were added around traffic calming areas to combat inconsiderate parking. Others however welcomed the proposals.

“Good to see this finally getting resolved,” said Louise Simmonds, hinting that this idea has been bandied around the ether for a number of years.

The proposed new restrictions would be enforced by Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) camera technology, with the council sending out fines by post to road users who continue to ignore the new rules.

The council said: “Offending motorists will receive a warning notice first within six months of the enforcement commencing.”

Anyone wishing to have their say on these proposals can make representations via this link before the closing date of June 4, 2026.