This week it works on the next phase of dedicated bus lanes which will connect Colchester began. 

Works for the rapid transit system have begun on the A133 Clingoe Hill with the introduction of a contraflow system. 

The system is set to stay in place until spring 2025. 

It will be alongside a short diversion due to Boundary Road’s exit and entrance being closed. 

The works will create a dedicated bus lane as part of a priority route between the new Colchester Tendring Garden community and key destinations around the city. 

It will also connect with works underway on Northern Approach and the existing park and ride facilities. 

But what does the rapid transit system mean for Colchester? 

Colchester Council and Essex County Council say the plans could increase accessibility and efficiency across the city and potentially see a change in how people travel through the city.

Information on the system from the Essex Highways website says: “Once operational, it is predicted the rapid transit will provide a 35 per cent journey time saving when travelling between the park and ride and the city centre and 20 per cent between the university and the city centre.

“Once operational in 2025/26 users can expect to see services unlike anything else in the city, with distinct vehicles, unique branding and modern ticketing and stops using the latest technologies.

“With vehicle technology evolving at pace, we are also exploring different types of vehicles. Elsewhere in the country, for example, the West Midlands Sprint is introducing new hydrogen-based vehicles, while the Belfast Glider uses a diesel-electric engine.”

Map - Essex Highways have released a map to show the route taken by the Rapid Transit SystemMap - Essex Highways have released a map to show the route taken by the Rapid Transit System (Image: Essex Highways)

David King, leader of Colchester City Council said the system would help people travelling around the city.

He said: "Colchester is experiencing significant growth, with new homes and business space being developed and over £40million in government funding allocated for the ongoing regeneration of the city centre, alongside considerable private investment.

“The introduction of the Rapid Transit System can play a crucial role in connecting key destinations throughout this expanding city. On completion it will be able to provide a convenient and efficient travel alternative.

Bus - This is the proposed look of the buses that will be used on the transport systemBus - This is the proposed look of the buses that will be used on the transport system (Image: Essex Highways)

"This investment is poised to bolster the local economy, enabling both customers and businesses to save time, alleviate congestion, and advance the city's environmental goals.

“Colchester and Essex Councils look forward to advancements of the Rapid Transit System, along with improvements to cycling infrastructure and significant enhancements to the St Botolph's Circus city gateway." 

The introduction of this system could improve the economy within the city and see a real improvement in connectivity across the city.

With roadworks creating a contraflow system along the A133 currently and the disruption at Northern Approach Road, it is difficult to see the benefit this could have on the city.

Councillor Tom Cunningham, highways, infrastructure and sustainable transport boss at Essex County Council, said: “I am delighted that works are due to get underway on what when operational, will provide transformational transport services across the city. 

“Colchester is thriving, but too many of us are making very short journeys by car, which has a significant impact on congestion. We need to make it a genuinely easier choice to access public transport, and we also need to ensure that future housing growth is supported through high-quality transport infrastructure.” 

For more information, visit Colchester Rapid Transit (essexhighways.org)