Footfall rises 42 per cent in Cambridge

Businesses and shops in Cambridge city centre which have “gone through the wringer” are seeing a welcome increase in footfall.

Figures from Cambridge BID show footfall in the week from Monday, May 24 was well up on the previous week and year.

Council leader, Cllr Lewis Herbert, said: “We need to stay safe but the welcome return of city centre shops and food and drink businesses, and their support for their employees, has been amazing. Both have gone through the wringer over the last 15 months. Great to see the city over the weekend – and ideal weather for half-term trips here. Thank you to Cambridge BID and King’s College for their lawn, and many others for their contributions too.”

He added that wooden picnic tables and seating installed by the city council in the market square had proved popular.

King’s Parade saw an increase in footfall of 41.84 per cent compared with the previous week, and 577 per cent on the previous year. It was also up 38.67 per cent on two years ago.

Ian Sandison, CEO of Cambridge BID, said: “The early part of the week was wet and windy, but from Thursday the weather turned and the numbers directly reflect this in Cambridge.

“The combination of good weather, the bank holiday and half-term, coupled with the limited options to travel abroad, means it should be a busy week for the city.”

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