A controversial sustainable transport project in Cambridge is facing significant legal challenges after environmental experts warned it would cause irreversible ecological harm to protected wildlife habitats. The proposed busway between Cambridge and Cambourne has become the subject of a heated public inquiry that could determine its future.
Environmental Warnings Ignored, Inquiry Hears
During the ongoing public inquiry, conservation groups presented compelling evidence that the planned route would devastate important ecological sites. Dr. Tony Juniper, chair of Natural England, delivered a stark warning that the development would permanently damage the West Cambridge Green Infrastructure Corridor. This area serves as crucial habitat for numerous protected species and represents one of the region's most valuable wildlife networks.
The Greater Cambridge Partnership, who backs the project, faces accusations of failing to properly assess environmental impacts. Expert witnesses testified that the current plans would fragment important habitats and destroy rare chalk grassland that supports unique biodiversity. These ecological concerns have prompted formal objections from multiple conservation organizations.
Protected Species at Immediate Risk
Evidence presented to the planning inspector revealed that the busway construction would directly impact several legally protected species. The corridor provides essential habitat for barbastelle bats, a European protected species whose roosting sites would be severely affected by the development. Water voles, another protected species, would see their habitats destroyed along the route.
Ecologists emphasized that the chalk grassland along the proposed route represents an irreplaceable natural asset that cannot be adequately compensated for through mitigation measures. The area supports numerous rare plant species and invertebrates that depend on this specific habitat type for survival.
Local conservationist Alice Haugh testified that "the scale of ecological loss would be unprecedented for the Cambridge area" and that "once destroyed, these habitats cannot be recreated elsewhere." Her concerns were echoed by multiple expert witnesses throughout the inquiry proceedings.
Transport Benefits Versus Environmental Costs
Proponents of the busway scheme argue that it will provide essential sustainable transport infrastructure for Cambridge's growing population. The project aims to reduce congestion and car dependency while improving connectivity between Cambridge and surrounding communities. However, opponents question whether these benefits justify the environmental price.
The public inquiry, which began hearing evidence in November 2024, must balance the need for improved public transport against the potentially devastating ecological consequences. Planning inspector David Spencer faces the challenging task of weighing competing priorities while considering legal protections for endangered species and habitats.
As the inquiry continues, both sides await a decision that could set important precedents for how future infrastructure projects balance environmental protection against development needs in ecologically sensitive areas.
