Members were given a summary of the outcome of the SOBC and then approved proceeding to Phase 1 of the Outline Business Case – OBC - for Fengate Phase 2 University Access project.
Mayor James Palmer said: “It is one of the most exciting times in the history of Peterborough. There is so much happening, so much opportunity, so much going on, and it is clear that the university is already having an effect.”
They agreed to recommend the Combined Authority Board the drawdown of £160,000 from the Medium-Term Financial Plan for Phase 1 of the OBC – and, subject to Board approval, to carry forward £120,000 funding into 2021-22 financial year.
The SOBC for Fengate Phase 2 University Access was commissioned by the Transport and Infrastructure Committee in November 2019. The SOBC sets out the case for transport improvements for the Embankment area and demonstrates that intervention is needed to reduce existing and future congestion and facilitate the development of the Embankment area including the University of Peterborough.
The case centres on the highway network around the Embankment area, including Junction 5 of the A1139 Frank Perkins Parkway and the surrounding roads of Bishops Road, Vineyard Road, and Boongate. It also considers the southern part of Fengate. Its aim is to identify any potential need for transport improvements to support the University site.
Phase 1 of the OBC is estimated to cost £160,000 and is scheduled to start in April 2021 and complete in October 2021.