Devolution in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough gets a boost with a visit from a Government minister
Sajid Javid, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government with leaders of organisations involved with deal for devolution for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough - Credit: Archant
The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Devolution Deal has been praised for its strong partnership and willingness to get the best for its communities.
Sajid Javid, MP, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, said: “Leaders in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough have put together ambitious devolution proposals to put power into the hands of those who know their area best.
“I’ve heard how they’re well on track with their plans towards a deal and while it’s very much a bottom-up process I’d urge them to press on and take advantage of what’s on offer.
“The deal would make a huge difference with a £600 million funding boost alongside massive investment in housing and new powers to help create jobs, improve skills and invest in transport.
“And, as it would be one of the most ambitious deals nationally, I am clear local people would also need to vote for a powerful new mayor to put them into practice.”
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Cambridgeshire County Council leader Steve Count, chairman of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Devolution Partnership, said: “We welcome the Secretary of State’s visit.
“He recognised the excellent public and private sector partnerships already in place as well as public support.
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“This puts Cambridgeshire and Peterborough well placed to take advantage of the opportunities devolution brings.
“The deal will put power back in the hands of local people but also £600 million of funding for infrastructure such as transport and £170 million for housing.
“It would also help bring opportunities to learn new skills and increase jobs, and that is just in the first phase.
“But crucially for me it will also help us spread the wealth throughout the whole area to tackle deprivation.”
The councils believe that a devolution deal would be an opportunity to boost jobs, transport and affordable homes across the county.
It is proposed to form a Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority chaired by a directly elected mayor.
