This week in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority:

Bus Network Overhaul Sparks Concern: Residents Fear Service Cuts Amidst Funding Uncertainty

A significant shake-up of bus services across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is on the horizon, with proposals for changes to routes in Fenland, Huntingdonshire, South Cambridgeshire, East Cambridgeshire, and Peterborough being put forward. While the aim is to create a more efficient and sustainable network, many residents and councillors are worried about potential service reductions, particularly in rural areas.

The Transport Committee, meeting on Wednesday 9 September 2026, heard that the Bus Services Reimagined proposals are the result of a review considering passenger feedback, operational efficiency, and budget constraints. Councillor Chris Boden, representing the Highways Authority, acknowledged the concerns but stated that difficult choices are necessary. He highlighted that while some services might be reduced, others are being improved, and the overall aim is to create a network that better serves the majority.

However, many councillors voiced strong opposition to the proposed changes. Councillor Alex Beckett expressed dismay, arguing that the term reimagined felt like a euphemism for service cuts, especially for rural communities. He pointed out that while some areas might see improvements, others, like Christchurch, could lose vital services altogether. Councillor Lorna Dupre raised concerns about the accessibility of the consultation process, particularly for elderly residents and those without digital access, and questioned the reliance on the Tiger on Demand service to fill the gaps left by traditional bus routes, citing its cost and potential limitations.

The committee ultimately recommended that the Combined Authority Board approve the proposed service changes. However, the debate highlighted a deep-seated anxiety among residents and their representatives about the future of public transport, with a clear call for greater clarity on funding and a more robust approach to ensuring essential services are maintained, especially for the most vulnerable.

• Transport Committee meeting on 9 September 2026

Devolution Accelerates: Combined Authority Poised for Greater Powers and Responsibilities

Cambridgeshire and Peterborough are set to gain more control over local services as the Combined Authority embraces new devolution powers. The Audit and Governance Committee, meeting on Thursday 10 September 2026, discussed significant updates stemming from the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026.

The authority is preparing for Established Mayoral Strategic Authority status, a designation that could unlock further devolved powers and a more integrated financial settlement. This move signals a commitment to greater local leadership in areas such as skills, employment, transport, and housing. The committee also reviewed proposed amendments to the Combined Authority's Constitution to reflect these changes, including provisions for Mayoral Commissioners and updated mayoral powers regarding grants.

While the expansion of powers is seen as a positive step for regional development, it also brings a heightened focus on governance and risk management. The committee endorsed deep dives into potential risks concerning the Peterborough Station Quarter and the Bus Reform Programme, acknowledging the need for robust oversight as new responsibilities are taken on. The authority's Corporate Risk Register was endorsed, with a commitment to ongoing monitoring and review.

• Audit and Governance Committee meeting on 10 September 2026

Active Travel and Brownfield Housing Receive Funding Boost

Significant funding has been approved to boost active travel initiatives and unlock housing development on brownfield sites across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. The Funding Committee, meeting on Monday 7 September 2026, recommended the approval of £24.465 million for the Active Travel Consolidated Settlement 2026-2030 and £557,000 for the Brownfield Housing Fund.

The Active Travel funding will support a four-year capital and three-year revenue programme aimed at increasing walking, wheeling, and cycling. This includes infrastructure improvements, school and community initiatives, and behaviour change activities. The funding is crucial for maintaining the region's Active Travel England capability rating, which could impact future government investment. Without this, the delivery of strategic active travel improvements would be significantly hindered.

The Brownfield Housing Fund, with its £557,000 revenue allocation, aims to unlock housing on previously developed land by addressing viability gaps. The target is to deliver at least 870 new homes by 2031. This initiative is conditional on meeting agreed outputs and milestones, and will involve collaboration with Homes England and the Cambridge Growth Company.

In a separate but related decision, the committee also recommended the closure of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Business Growth Company Limited, a subsidiary established to deliver the 'Growth Works' programme. Its assets will be transferred back to the Combined Authority as part of the winding-up process.

• Funding Committee meeting on 7 September 2026

Other Matters

• Corporate Performance Report Highlights Concerns: The Overview and Scrutiny Committee, meeting on Tuesday 8 September 2026, reviewed the Corporate Performance Report for Q1 2026/27. While some KPIs showed positive results, concerns were raised about the number of businesses receiving support (rated Red), the number of job vacancies (also Red, with debate on interpretation), and new homes started and completed (Red due to high targets). Issues with buildings requiring remediation for unsafe cladding and a significant drop in staff feeling valued were also discussed. The committee also noted the Bus Network Review Engagement report, which detailed efforts to improve public consultation following previous feedback.
• Bus Network Review Engagement: The Overview and Scrutiny Committee received an update on the Bus Network Review Engagement. Following previous concerns about the process being too digitally focused and lacking time and budget, a revised, multi-channel approach was implemented. This included extended planning, clearer materials, and targeted outreach, which exceeded response targets. However, questions were raised about the demographic reach and the accessibility of materials for all residents.
• Scrutiny Lead Member Reports: Updates were provided by scrutiny lead members on the Local Skills Improvement Plan, e-scooters and e-bikes (to be brought forward due to safety concerns), and potential international links and devolved powers.

This week in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority:

£5 Million in Transport Funding Approved, But Value for Money Concerns Linger

The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority has allocated over £5 million in Local Transport Grant (capital) funding to Peterborough City Council and Cambridgeshire County Council. The Funding Committee, meeting on Monday 3 August 2026, resolved to recommend the approval of £1,522,000 for Peterborough and £3,450,700 for Cambridgeshire. This funding is earmarked for local transport improvement schemes, forming part of the Department for Transport's Local Transport Delivery Plan.

However, the decision was not without its critics. Councillor Steve Count raised concerns about the lack of a value for money assessment in the business cases presented, stating that relevant sections were blank. Tim Bellamy, Assistant Director of Transport, explained that these assessments would be conducted as detailed schemes are developed, assuring the committee of stringent reporting mechanisms with the Department for Transport.

Councillor Martin Hassall echoed these concerns, questioning the absence of a value for money assessment and suggesting that past performance data should inform current spending. He also noted a discrepancy in the allocated amount for Cambridgeshire County Council, which was higher than previously indicated.

Councillor Lara Davenport-Ray voiced strong reservations about how the funds might be spent, particularly regarding soil-affected roads. She argued that the current allocation matrix, which prioritises traffic volume, is flawed and does not adequately address safety risks for motorcyclists, stating, People die because of the condition of the road. They hit a slope, motorcyclist, and they go off the side of the road. Despite her concerns, she voted in favour of the allocation, but made it clear she did not endorse the perceived shortcomings in how the funds might be spent.

The committee also discussed the Nene Valley footway and cycleway improvement project, with Councillor Mohammed Jamil expressing frustration over the lack of progress and repairs over the past eight years. He was assured that further details would be provided offline.

• Funding Committee meeting on 03 August 2026

Other Matters

• Previous Meeting Minutes Approved: The minutes of the previous Funding Committee meeting held on 22 June 2026 were approved.

This week in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority:

Bus Services Face Cuts as Funding Shortfall Threatens Rural Routes

The future of vital bus services in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough hangs in the balance, with several routes facing withdrawal and concerns mounting over the impact on vulnerable residents. The Combined Authority Board met on Wednesday 15 July 2026 to discuss the latest on transport provision, revealing that services 8A (March to Newmarket Road Park and Ride, Cambridge), 15 (Haslingfield to Royston), 19A (Cambridge to Landbeach), and 67 (Commercial Bus Service) have been withdrawn.

Mayor Paul Bristow defended the decisions, citing low passenger numbers and high costs per journey on some routes. He stated that subsidised routes are in place where services are deemed socially necessary. However, this explanation did little to appease concerns from residents like Francis Reid, who highlighted that for many in rural areas, buses are a lifeline to essential services like medical appointments, employment, and education.

The Board did approve continued support for local Dial-a-Ride and Volunteer Car Schemes through an annual grant-funded agreement. However, they resolved not to expand the provision of Taxi Voucher schemes, maintaining current arrangements subject to means testing and with no new applications being accepted. This decision could leave those who rely on taxi services for essential travel facing increased difficulties.

The Mayor also defended the decision to maintain free parking in town centres, arguing it is a tool for economic regeneration, particularly in areas like Peterborough city centre, which has seen a decline. He stated he saw no correlation between free parking and bus service cuts, despite public questions linking the two.

The Board also approved the use of £2 million from the 2026/27 Adult Skills allocation to deliver Skills Bootcamps. Authority was delegated to the Executive Director Place and Economy to extend and vary existing Wave 6 contracts, enter into grant funding agreements, and undertake procurement exercises for Wave 7 provision. Stagecoach East was approved for a grant funding agreement to maintain the socially necessary Cambridge – Northstowe Citi 5 service, subject to a subsidy control assessment.

• Combined Authority Board meeting on 15 July 2026

£15 Million Skills Capital Programme Approved to Boost Future Workforce

A substantial £15,143,069 has been approved for the Skills Capital Programme, aimed at expanding post-16 education capacity and enhancing construction and technical skills across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. This funding, set to run until March 2030, is designed to meet growing employer demand and directly support the goals of the Local Growth Plan.

The programme will fund capital projects within Further Education colleges and Sixth Forms, enabling them to refurbish existing spaces, provide temporary additional capacity, or, in exceptional cases, undertake new builds. The aim is to create at least 31 additional learner places per site by September 2028.

Councillor Chris Boden highlighted concerns regarding the skills situation in Fenland, noting it as the most deprived local authority in England for education, skills, and training. Councillor Lucy Nethsingha, Executive Director for Skills and Employment, acknowledged these challenges and outlined the focus on capital infrastructure to enable new courses. Councillor Shabina Qayyum raised important points about co-production with providers and the accessibility of application processes, ensuring that these new facilities benefit those who need them most.

• Combined Authority Board meeting on 15 July 2026

Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Pursues Established Mayoral Strategic Authority Status

The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority is taking a significant step towards greater local control by applying for Established Mayoral Strategic Authority (EMSA) status. This application, approved by the Combined Authority Board on Wednesday 15 July 2026, signals a desire for enhanced strategic decision-making powers and greater flexibility in financial management.

EMSA status is a designation from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) that recognises combined authorities with a proven track record of delivery and strategic capability. Achieving this status could lead to a more integrated financial settlement, offering greater flexibility in local budget allocations and potentially unlocking further devolved powers.

The Board noted the extensive engagement with MHCLG, constituent councils, and regional partners in support of this application. Councillor Chris Boden expressed his gratitude to officers for their diligent work in compiling the necessary evidence, underscoring the collaborative effort involved.

• Combined Authority Board meeting on 15 July 2026

Other Matters

• Spatial Development Strategy and Visitor Economy Plans Approved: The Board approved the Statement of Intent for the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Plan (the Spatial Development Strategy). They also received recommendations from the Growth Committee regarding the Strategic Place Partnership Update, Local Nature Recovery Strategy Delivery Plan, Brownfield Housing Fund, and the Destination Management Plan (DMP). The DMP was approved with amendments to terminology, addressing concerns about the wording regarding the regional film office to ensure it complements existing provision.
• Chief Executive's Highlights Report Noted: The Board noted the contents of the Chief Executive's Highlights Report, which included updates on Mayoral Question Time, fiscal devolution discussions with the Treasury, and the signing off of the Local Skilled Improvement Plan. The appointment of Tom Osefield as Executive Director of Transport was also noted.
• Gateway Review 2 Confirms Funding Unlock: The Gateway Review 2 Final Report was noted, confirming the unlocking of the next five-year tranche of £100 million of government funding for the region. This funding will be provided at £20 million per year through to 2030-31. The report highlighted improvements in organisational capacity and partnership working, while also identifying areas for improvement in project delivery and evidence of economic impact.
• Corporate Performance and Risk Reports Noted: The Corporate Performance Report for Q4 2025/26 was noted, highlighting a threefold increase in support for young people not in employment, education or training through the Youth Guarantee Trailblazer Programme and an increase in gigabit broadband accessibility. The Corporate Risk Report was also noted, with no high red risks identified.

This week in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority:

Bus Franchising Faces Major Hurdles: Independent Review Highlights Financial Gaps and Phased Approach

The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority's (CPCA) journey towards bus franchising has been laid bare in a recent independent review, revealing significant financial challenges and recommending a cautious, phased implementation. The review, commissioned by Mayor Paul Bristow, acknowledges that the original timelines for introducing a fully franchised bus network are no longer feasible due to changed political and financial circumstances.

The core recommendation is a phased and hybrid approach, combining interim direct awards and service permits with a gradual introduction of competitively tendered franchise contracts. This strategy aims to manage risk, encourage market participation, and allow the CPCA to build the necessary capacity and gather crucial data.

Key Challenges and Recommendations:

• Funding Gap: The review highlights a significant funding gap due to updated demand drivers and the Mayor's commitment to freeze the Mayoral Precept. This could necessitate network reductions or the exploration of alternative funding solutions.
• Depot Strategy: The CPCA plans to proceed with developing its own bus depots in Peterborough and Cambridge, which are seen as crucial for fostering competition. Interim solutions are being considered while these are developed.
• Fleet Strategy: A reconsideration of operator-provided fleets is suggested, with a move towards CPCA ownership or leasing of electric buses to level the playing field and support the transition to zero-emission vehicles.
• Timescales: Franchise competitions for larger service lots are delayed until the CPCA can establish suitable depot ownership. Direct awards and service permits will be used in the interim.

During the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting, concerns were voiced about the financial implications, particularly the capital costs for new depots and the overall affordability within the current financial envelope. The potential for service reductions if affordability pressures cannot be mitigated was also a point of discussion. The committee was informed that the Bus Services Act 2025 provides new powers for direct awards, which could be used as a transitional measure, though legal advice indicated some risk of challenge.

The committee received the report, and the recommendations within it were approved.

• Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on 30 June 2026

Corporate Performance: Housing Starts and Project Delivery Lag Behind Targets

The latest Corporate Performance Report for Q4 2025/26 reveals a mixed picture, with several Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) rated Red, indicating performance is significantly below target. Notably, the number of new homes started and completed, and the percentage of live in-delivery projects on track, are areas of concern.

While housing metrics are influenced by factors outside the CPCA's direct control, the Red rating for starts and completions highlights a persistent challenge in meeting housing needs across the region. The report notes that while Cambridgeshire and Peterborough's housing delivery is closer to assessed local housing need than many other areas in England, there is still a considerable gap.

The percentage of live in-delivery projects on track is also a significant concern. Officers explained that this metric reflects a more comprehensive assessment of projects, many of which predate the Single Assurance Framework. The introduction of this framework is expected to lead to more robust business cases and realistic delivery timelines for future projects. The committee also discussed the metric for the proportion of land classed as nature-rich, noting a reported decrease and the importance of robust data collection.

• Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on 30 June 2026

Other Matters

• Work Programme and Working Groups Established: The Overview and Scrutiny Committee agreed the terms of reference for several working groups, including the Interim Outcomes Framework Working Group, the Budget Working Group, and the Bus Depot Working Group. Members were appointed to these groups, with the terms of reference for the Bus Depot Working Group to be brought back in September.
• Terms of Reference Updated: The committee received a report on changes to its Terms of Reference, particularly in relation to the dismissal of mayoral commissioners, and recommended these amendments to the Combined Authority Board.
• New Leadership for Overview and Scrutiny: Councillor Aidan Van De Weyer was elected Chair and Councillor Jon Neish was elected Vice Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee for the municipal year 2026/27.