Delays for motorists as lane reductions go into operation at major Peterborough traffic junction
Hundreds of motorists had their first morning encounter with a new traffic obstacle as lane reductions went into operation at a major roundabout in Peterborough.
Coaches, buses, lorries and many family cars were left to jostle for position today (July 6) as they attempted to cross the Queensgate roundabout to get to various parts of the city.
Delays were primarily at the exit from Thorpe Road onto Bourges Boulevard and from the Queensgate Bourges Boulevard exit where there has been a one lane reduction on each road.
The lane reductions are to help ensure the safety of workmen as they embark on a £5 million project to transform the Queensgate roundabout.
But motorists have been warned by Peterborough City Council that the delays and works will be in place for the next 40 weeks.
Why are the works needed?
The Queensgate Roundabout is one of the heavily used by traffic but work on a £5 million transformation scheme starts today (July 6), which will see the ‘gateway to the city centre’ changed beyond recognition.
Two subways running through the roundabout will be filled with 1,000 tonnes of concrete with landscaping works following to create a more welcoming route from the train station to Cowgate and the city centre.
Most of the roundabout will be reduced to just one lane for the length of the works, which are due to be completed in summer 2027.
There will also be some full closures of Queensgate roundabout planned throughout the course of the project. These will be overnight to reduce disruption for motorists and will take place in the spring/summer 2027.
Walking and Cycling
Walking – The subway system will be closed from Monday, 6 July. Two diversion routes have been set up:
A route to the railway station around the roundabout from Thorpe Road, via the Priestgate entrance and across Bourges Boulevard.
A dedicated walk-through across the station car park to the station.
Cyclists can either use Queensgate roundabout, or dismount from their cycles and use the pedestrian diversion routes.
Parking
Peterborough Railway Station - From Monday 29 June, the capacity of the main station car park will be reduced by 111 spaces around the Priority Parking area. Please allow extra time for parking and consider using Mayor’s Walk or Spittle Bank car parks.
The short stay car park and drop off zone will remain open and taxis and vehicles will be able to continue to use the route around the car park and entrance and exit as normal.
Queensgate – All car parks will remain open.
Buses
There are expected to be short delays to bus times, however, Queensgate roundabout is still operational.