Mere Way is a key part of the vision to provide robust sustainable transport connections to support the development of the former Waterbeach Barracks, as well as providing benefits to the surrounding area. The improvements will help connect communities by providing an important active travel route between Waterbeach and Landbeach – to Cambridge Science Park and beyond – for existing and future users.
Extensive consultation was carried out over three years, including discussions with Waterbeach and Landbeach Parish Councils, district councillors, the Local Access Forum and representatives from walking, cycling and equestrian groups. Residents and wider users were also consulted and had an opportunity to feedback their comments through an online consultation.
A wide range of differing views were received, and the design team incorporated the needs of diverse user groups where possible, whilst taking into consideration the ecology and heritage along this important historic route, as well as safety requirements.
The works included the refurbishment of the existing route to create a 3-4.1m hard surface pathway alongside a 2-3m wide grass pathway along the historic Akeman Street and Mere Way byways. This provides a predominantly off-road route for pedestrians, cyclists and equestrians, which will be connected to the development by a new bridge over the A10. The plans also enable agricultural uses along the route to work effectively alongside other users.
The route will be completed in two phases. The first phase of the route, to Green End in Landbeach has been completed and is open. The second phase, which connects to Waterbeach, will begin in 2025 and be completed with the opening of the new bridge over the A10 due in Spring 2026.