"A 160m busway scheduled to be built through one of Cambridgeshire's last traditional orchards would cause irreversible ecological harm, a public inquiry has been told. The plans being examined for an off-road busway linking Cambourne to Cambridge follow a route through Coton Orchard, a 24-hectare (60-acre) orchard and nationally recognised priority habitat. A public inquiry, held by planning inspectors appointed by the transport secretary, is examining the scheme until 21 November."
"The Greater Cambridge Partnership (GCP) and Cambridgeshire county council, who are proposing the route, say the busway is essential for housing growth, congestion reduction and sustainable travel. But more than 24,000 people have signed a petition opposing it, and Coton parish council has proposed an alternative using an on-road section of the A1303, with buses given priority. The community does not feel they have been listened to, said the Coton parish councillor Carolyn Postgate."
A proposed 160m off-road busway linking Cambourne to Cambridge would run through Coton Orchard, a 24-hectare traditional orchard classed as an irreplaceable habitat with century-old Bramley trees and rare species. Planning inspectors are examining the scheme at a public inquiry running until 21 November. The Greater Cambridge Partnership and Cambridgeshire county council argue the route supports housing growth, reduces congestion and promotes sustainable travel, and cite a commitment to 20% biodiversity net gain and a Defra metric assessment. Local residents, landowners and Coton parish council oppose the route, propose an on-road A1303 alternative, and warn of biodiversity loss and wasted public money.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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