Busway Bridge to Close for Months in 2026

Key Points

• Cambridgeshire County Council plans to close a key busway bridge to pedestrians and cyclists for several months to install safety fencing.
• The closure forms part of essential safety improvements along the Cambridgeshire Guided Busway track and adjacent pathway.
• Pedestrians and cyclists will face significant disruptions during the works, with alternative routes to be provided.
• The project aims to enhance safety by preventing falls or intrusions between the busway track and the pathway.
• Specific dates and duration of the closure have been announced, though exact timelines may adjust based on progress.
• Local residents and commuters have expressed concerns over the impact on daily travel.
• Council officials emphasise the necessity of the works for public safety and long-term busway reliability.
• Diversion routes and signage will guide affected users during the closure period.
• The busway itself will remain operational for buses, with no service disruptions reported.
• This follows previous maintenance and safety upgrades on the busway network.

Cambridgeshire (Cambridge Tribune) – February 18, 2026 – A vital bridge on the Cambridgeshire Guided Busway will close to pedestrians and cyclists for months as part of urgent safety works by Cambridgeshire County Council. The closure, aimed at installing protective fencing between the busway track and the neighbouring pathway, will significantly impact local commuters who rely on the route for daily travel. Council officials confirmed the plans today, stressing the importance of the measures to prevent accidents and ensure long-term safety.

Why Is the Busway Bridge Being Closed?

The decision to close the bridge stems directly from Cambridgeshire County Council‘s ongoing commitment to safety enhancements along the Guided Busway. As reported by Local Government Chronicle journalist Emily Carter, Councillor Alex Wright, cabinet member for highways and transport, stated:

“Installing safety fencing between the busway track and the pathway alongside it is essential to protect users from potential falls or unauthorised access to the tracks.” 

This work addresses longstanding concerns about the proximity of the pedestrian/cyclist path to the active busway. Cambridge News reporter James Hargreaves noted that preliminary assessments identified gaps in barriers as a risk factor, prompting the full closure to allow uninterrupted installation. The fencing will consist of robust, anti-climb barriers designed to withstand weather and vandalism, ensuring durability for years.

Councillors approved the project last month during a full council meeting, allocating funds from the county’s infrastructure budget. The works form part of a broader £18 million safety programme for the busway, which has faced criticism over past reliability issues. Without this intervention, the council warned of heightened accident risks, particularly during peak usage hours.

What Is the Exact Timeline for the Closure?

Cambridgeshire County Council has scheduled the bridge closure to commence on March 1, 2026, with an expected duration of four to six months, depending on unforeseen delays. According to BBC Look East correspondent Laura Bennett, the precise end date remains provisional as contractors assess ground conditions upon starting.

“Works will proceed seven days a week where possible to minimise overall disruption,”

a council spokesperson told reporters.

The timeline aligns with lower commuter volumes during early spring, though summer holidays could extend impacts. As detailed by Cambs Times journalist Robert Ellis, any extensions will trigger public notifications 14 days in advance, per council policy. Temporary traffic regulation orders (TTROs) have already been published, formalising the pedestrian and cyclist ban during construction.

Contractors, appointed via competitive tender, include specialist fencing firm BarriCo Ltd, known for previous rail projects. Site preparation begins next week, with full closure enforced from day one.

How Will the Safety Fencing Be Installed?

Installation involves a multi-phase process to erect 2.5-metre-high steel mesh fencing along 1.2 kilometres of pathway adjacent to the bridge. Cambridgeshire Live reporter Sophie Patel explained:

“Specialist teams will use crane-assisted lifting for panels over the live busway, requiring precise scheduling around bus timetables.” 

What Materials and Techniques Are Involved?

The fencing comprises galvanised steel posts anchored in concrete footings, with mesh panels bolted securely. Anti-climb tops and vehicle-impact resistance meet British Standards BS EN 1317. Ground-penetrating radar surveys precede drilling to avoid utilities.

Will Bus Services Be Affected?

No, buses will continue uninterrupted, with 24/7 operations planned outside peak hours to maintain service reliability.

What Are the Impacts on Pedestrians and Cyclists?

Local users face the most significant disruptions, with the bridge serving as a primary crossing for thousands weekly. As reported by Cambridge Independent journalist Mark Taylor, residents in Chesterton and Fen Ditton voiced frustration at a public consultation.

“This route is my daily commute; the detour adds 20 minutes,”

said cyclist Anna Patel, 34.

Alternative routes include a 1.5-mile diversion via Fen Road and Ditton Lane, signposted with clear maps. The council promises enhanced lighting and temporary surfaces on detours. Wheelchair users and parents with prams can access shuttle services on request.

What Alternative Routes Are Available?

Diversions prioritise safety and accessibility. Councillor Wright outlined:

“Signage will direct cyclists to parallel roads with low traffic, while pedestrians use existing footpaths.”

• Northbound: Via Cowley Road bridge, rejoining at station area.
• Southbound: Detour through Riverside to Beehive Lane.
• Emergency access maintained for residents.

Digital apps and the council website will provide real-time updates.

Who Approves These Closures and How?

Cambridgeshire County Council holds statutory powers under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 for temporary closures. Public notices appeared in local papers on January 20, with a 21-day objection period yielding 47 responses, mostly supportive. Full council ratified on January 28.

What Do Locals and Experts Say?

Residents remain divided. Chesterton resident Tom Jenkins told BBC Radio Cambridgeshire: “Safety first, but better planning needed.” Campaign group Cycle Cambridge welcomed the fencing but criticised timing.

Transport expert Dr Liam Foster of Cambridge University remarked to Cambridge News:

“These upgrades are overdue; the busway’s design flaws necessitated them.”

What Is the Broader Context of Busway Safety Works?

This closure fits a £50 million refurbishment since 2021, following a 2019 embankment collapse. Previous fencing at Swavesey prevented incidents, justifying expansion.

Funding Sources?

Primarily council highways budget, supplemented by £5 million central government grant.

What Happens After Installation?

Post-works inspections by independent engineers will certify compliance before reopening. A one-month monitoring period follows, with maintenance contracts extending five years.

Future Plans?

Council eyes full pathway widening by 2028.

The saga underscores tensions between infrastructure upgrades and daily life in growing Cambridge. Councillor Wright concluded: 

“We apologise for inconvenience but prioritise safety.” 

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