Wisbech 2020 Vision has made an impact and people “really feel differently about what is being achieved”, the chief executive of Anglian Water told a conference.

Peter Simpson was addressing more than 60 councillors, business leaders and community group representatives at the Boathouse in Wisbech.

Mr Simpson pledged the continuing commitment of Anglian Water and its partner companies to the project. He highlighted the strong and growing partnership with the College of West Anglia.

“The mood in this room today is tangible – people really feel differently about what is being achieved,” he said. “Now we need to keep up the momentum and develop the vision further.”

The meeting also focused on the continuing drive to improve skills and education in the area and the measures needed to tackle health issues such as smoking and obesity.

Adrian Cannard, ‎strategy and planning director at the Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough Enterprise Partnership (LEP), said: “Our skill service is working with Wisbech businesses and schools to inspire school children to meet the skills needs of the future.

“Getting the right skills is vital to economic growth in Wisbech, as existing businesses innovate and new sectors develop. The LEP with local partners is supporting that growth by making sure the training offer reflects what businesses want.”

Dr Liz Robin, director for public health at Cambridgeshire County Council, said: “Health is everybody’s business and Wisbech 2020 has really put health on the map for the town. We know the town has high rates of smoking and the number of people suffering from illnesses such as coronary heart disease is a real concern.

“What’s important about Wisbech 2020 is that it has brought together partners who are working to tackle these issues and improve health and wellbeing for people in this town.”

NE Cambs MP Steve Barclay said the community was under no illusions about how much remains to be done.

“What has changed is the range of partners now engaged constructively from industry leaders, senior health professionals, all tiers of government and major charities,” he said.

“The key next step is to achieve the roll-out off the Wisbech to Cambridge rail link so we can access the additional £10.5 million allocated by the Government on top of the initial £1 million.”