The Growth Committee is scheduled to consider a range of significant reports concerning the region's future development and economic strategy. Key discussions are expected to focus on the Spatial Development Strategy, the Local Growth Plan, and the allocation of substantial funding for housing development.

Spatial Development Strategy (SDS)

The committee is scheduled to consider a report on the development of a Spatial Development Strategy (SDS) for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. This strategy is a statutory requirement under the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025, and the report will outline how the Combined Authority intends to prepare this strategy. A Statement of Intent, detailing the approach and core principles for developing the SDS, will be presented for consideration and recommendation to the Combined Authority Board. The SDS aims to shape growth, future planning policies, and support the delivery of the Local Growth Plan, integrating spatial and infrastructure investment decisions with economic, environmental, health, and climate priorities. The report notes that initial government funding of £1.55 million has been made available for this work, with potential for further funding.

Local Growth Plan Update

An update on the Local Growth Plan (LGP) is scheduled, focusing on the progress made since its launch in December and outlining the plans for the next steps in 2026-27. The LGP sets out the scale and model of growth achievable through investment in infrastructure, housing, and skills. Since March, a cross-Combined Authority LGP programme management board has been established to oversee seven workstreams: Data & Evidence Base, Plan Prioritisation, Investment Pipeline, Funding & Investment, Partnerships & Communications, and Governance. The report will also cover progress on sector plans, inward investment, place-based investments, and the critical work on the Spatial Development Strategy.

Strategic Place Partnership (SPP) Update

The committee will receive an update on the progress of the Strategic Place Partnership (SPP) with Homes England. This partnership aims to drive forward the delivery of homes across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough to meet government housing targets and the ambitions of the Local Growth Plan. The report will cover work completed in the first year, findings from studies on the North Huntingdon Opportunity Zone, and proposals for the allocation of Homes England revenue funding for 2026-27. Key areas for proposed spend include the Peterborough City Centre regeneration, further work on the North Huntingdon Opportunity Zone, brownfield land opportunities, and next steps for the Fenland Triangle. The committee will also consider recommendations for the establishment of a Peterborough City Centre Growth Board.

Local Nature Recovery Strategy Delivery Plan

A report seeking approval for the initial delivery plan for the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) is scheduled. This plan sets out immediate and short-term actions to progress nature recovery across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. The LNRS, approved in November 2025, identifies priorities for habitat and species recovery. The delivery plan, developed with Natural Cambridgeshire, outlines a phased approach to implementation, focusing on place-based action within seven sub-programmes. The committee will also be asked to note the appointment of Natural Cambridgeshire as the LNRS delivery partner for 2026-27 and the grant of £185,000 from DEFRA to support delivery over the next three financial years.

Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Destination Management Plan (DMP)

The committee is scheduled to note progress on the preparation of a Destination Management Plan (DMP) for the visitor economy. This plan is a condition of the Combined Authority's Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) accreditation with VisitEngland, which was approved in May 2026. The DMP will define a five-year growth and sustainability framework for the visitor economy, aiming to increase the value of tourism, improve place management, support businesses, and deliver growth. The report will also provide an update on the development of a regional visitor brand and narrative, intended to strengthen the region's identity and visitor appeal.

Brownfield Housing Fund

An update on the allocation of a £26.1 million Brownfield Housing Fund (BHF) is scheduled. This capital funding, subject to agreeing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), aims to deliver a minimum of 870 new home starts on brownfield sites by 2031. The report will outline the next steps in securing the funds and the planned process for mobilising and deploying the funding. The committee will be asked to note the allocation and consider recommendations for delegated authority to finalise and sign the MOU, and to note the request for revenue funding to support programme management.

Budget and Performance Report

The committee will receive a report on the outturn financial position of the Growth Committee's budgets for the financial year 2025-26. This will include an analysis against the budgets and details of any board-approved carry-forwards. The report will also outline changes to budgetary reporting for 2026-27, reflecting the committee's updated terms of reference and the Combined Authority's new corporate structure.

Work Programme

Finally, the committee is scheduled to note its Work Programme for the upcoming period.