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Combined Authority Board - Wednesday, 15th July, 2026 10.00 am
July 15, 2026 at 10:00 am Combined Authority Board View on council website Watch video of meeting Read transcript (Professional subscription required)Summary
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The Combined Authority Board of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority Council met on Wednesday 15 July 2026. The meeting approved the forward plan for July 2026 and noted the contents of the Chief Executive's Highlights Report.
Bus Services and Transport
Concerns were raised by Francis Reid regarding bus route cuts in May, with specific services 8A (March to Newmarket Road Park and Ride, Cambridge), 15 (Haslingfield to Royston), 19A (Cambridge to Landbeach), and 67 (Commercial Bus Service) being withdrawn. Councillor Chris Boden declared a non-pecuniary interest in transport items as a trustee of FACT community transport. The Mayor defended the withdrawal of some services due to low passenger numbers and high costs per journey, stating that subsidised routes were in place where services were deemed socially necessary. He also addressed public questions about free parking, stating it was a tool for economic regeneration, and defended the decision to withdraw underused bus services.
The Board approved the utilisation of £2 million from the 2026/27 Adult Skills allocation to deliver Skills Bootcamps. Authority was delegated to the Executive Director Place and Economy, working with the Assistant Director for Skills and Employment, to extend and vary existing Wave 6 contracts, enter into grant funding agreements, and undertake procurement exercises for Wave 7 provision.
The Board approved the allocated spend of proposed Section 106 developer funds for bus services, with delegated authority to the Assistant Director of Public Transport. 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. Allocated spend of S106 funds within Northstowe and Sawtry for community transport projects was also approved, with delegated authority to the Assistant Director of Public Transport.
The Greater Cambridge Transport Strategy interim technical report was approved as the agreed interim strategic position, with further work required before its completion in November 2026.
Continued support for local Dial a Ride and Volunteer Car Schemes was approved through an annual grant-funded agreement, with delegated authority to the Executive Director Transport. However, the Board resolved not to expand the provision of Taxi Voucher provision, continuing with current arrangements subject to means testing and no new applications being accepted.
The Mayor's Independent Review into Bus Franchising Implementation Pathways was noted, along with the Strategic Delivery Plan developed to address key concerns. Additional work on Service Permits and changes to the original outline business case was also noted. Authority was delegated to the Assistant Director Public Transport to procure and enter into contracts for consultant and contractor services required to support bus franchising implementation, including works associated with the development of the Peterborough bus depot.
Established Mayoral Strategic Authority Status
The Board approved the submission of an application to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) for Established Mayoral Strategic Authority (EMSA) status on behalf of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority. The Board also noted the engagement with MHCLG, constituent councils and regional partners in support of this application and future Integrated Settlement readiness activities. Councillor Chris Boden expressed his gratitude to officers for their work in providing the necessary evidence for the application.
Skills Capital Funding
The Business Case for the Skills Capital Programme (Post-16 Capacity) was approved, totalling £15,143,069 for delivery to March 2030. Individual projects within the programme will return for approval separately. 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 the challenges and outlined the focus on capital infrastructure to enable new courses. Councillor Shabina Qayyum raised points about co-production with providers and accessibility of application processes.
Spatial Development Strategy and Visitor Economy
The Statement of Intent for the preparation of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Plan (the Spatial Development Strategy) was approved. The Board 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). Councillor Brett Mickelburgh raised concerns about the wording regarding the regional film office within the Destination Management Plan, suggesting amendments to ensure it complements rather than competes with existing provision. Councillor Brian Milnes questioned the alignment of the Spatial Development Strategy with housing delivery targets and infrastructure challenges. Councillor Lucy Nethsingha responded, clarifying that the SDS focuses on doubling GVA, which is the Combined Authority's statutory duty, and that housing numbers are not fixed targets. Councillor Sarah Conboy emphasised the importance of planning for growth regardless of timescale.
The Board approved the Destination Management Plan, with some amendments to terminology. Councillor Brett Mickelburgh's concerns regarding the regional film office wording were noted, and it was agreed that the team would review this.
Other Key Decisions
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.
The Gateway Review 2 Final Report was noted, confirming the unlocking of the next five-year tranche of £100 million of government funding. 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.
Officer Decisions for projects under the Single Assurance Framework delegation were noted.
The meeting concluded with an exclusion of the press and public for the discussion on the Peterborough Bus Depot, due to exempt information.
Delegated decisions linked to this meeting
Decision summaries below are AI-generated from the council’s published record. Check the council source or the full decision page before relying on them.
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Spatial Development Strategy (SDS) - KD2025/078
Recommendations approvedThe Combined Authority Board approved the Statement of Intent for the preparation of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Plan (the Spatial Development Strategy) on 15 July 2026. The decision included approving the Statement of Intent for the preparation of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Plan.
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Brownfield Housing Fund - KD2026/047
Recommendations approvedThe Combined Authority Board approved the approach and immediate steps for securing and managing the £26 million Brownfield Housing Fund on 15 July 2026. Authority was delegated to the Executive Director of Place and Economy to finalise and sign the Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government. The Board also noted the request for revenue funding to support the capital fund and the need for staffing resources to manage it.
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Adult Skills Review 2024/25 and future planning - KD2025/071
Recommendations approvedThe Combined Authority Board approved the findings of the Adult Skills Funding Review 2024/25 on 15 July 2026. The Board resolved to note the review's findings, approve its assessment and strategic direction, and use the findings to shape future adult skills planning. The decision will inform future commissioning, performance management, and strategic planning for adult skills for the period 2026–29.
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Corporate Risk Report
Information OnlyThe Combined Authority Board noted the Corporate Risk Register, Dashboard, and Heatmap for May 2026 on 15/07/2026. This information was presented to the Board as part of their oversight responsibilities.
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Peterborough Bus Depot – KD2026/048
Recommendations ApprovedThe Audit and Governance Committee decided to review the updated Terms of Reference and recommend their approval to the Board on 25 June 2026. The committee agreed to include references to financial management effectiveness, value for money responsibilities, and the local code of governance. They also agreed to separate risk and performance management, acknowledge the committee's role in risk management, and include compliance with Global Internal Audit Standards.
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Appointment to Outside Bodies
Recommendations ApprovedThe Combined Authority Board of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority resolved to approve the appointment of the Mayor as the CPCA representative on the Greater Cambridge Development Corporation Board on 15 July 2026. The Board also noted that members appointed to external bodies will provide updates at intervals agreed by the Board.
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Business Case Approvals - Officer Decisions
Information OnlyThe Combined Authority Board noted officer decisions for projects under the Single Assurance Framework delegation from Funding Panels held on 03 March, 15 April, and 02 June 2026. This information was recorded on 15/07/2026.
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Gateway Review 2 Final Report
Information OnlyThe Combined Authority Board noted updates on relevant legislation and the intention to apply for Established Mayoral Strategic Authority status. The Board decided this on 15/07/2026. They will seek Board approval for the application in July 2026.
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Minutes of the previous meeting
Recommendations ApprovedThe Combined Authority Board approved the minutes of the previous meeting held on 3 June 2026. The action log was noted.
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Declaration of Interests
Information OnlyThe Combined Authority Board noted a declaration of interest from Councillor Chris Boden on 15/07/2026. Councillor Chris Boden declared a non-pecuniary interest as a trustee of FACT community transport.
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Forward Plan
Recommendations ApprovedCombined Authority Board approved the Forward Plan for July 2026 on 15/07/2026.
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Senior Appointment
Information OnlyThe Combined Authority Board of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority Council resolved to note the appointment of the Executive Director of Transport on 15 July 2026. The report stated that Faerfield recruitment agency was appointed to support the recruitment process.
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Chief Executive Highlights Report
Information OnlyThe Combined Authority Board noted the contents of the Chief Executive's Highlight Report on 15 July 2026. The report detailed activities including the establishment of the Cambridge Development Corporation, Mayoral Question Time events, and the installation of solar canopies at Cambridgeshire Constabulary.
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Combined Authority Membership Update
Information OnlyThe Combined Authority Board decided to note changes in committee membership. This decision was made on 15/07/2026. The changes included noting substitute confirmations and membership changes from various councils and the Fire Authority.
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Exclusion of the Press and Public
Recommendations ApprovedCombined Authority Board resolved to exclude the press and public from the meeting on 15 July 2026. This decision was made because the subsequent report contained exempt information under Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972.
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Destination Management Plan - KD2026/031
Recommendations approvedThe Growth Committee and Combined Authority Board approved the Destination Management Plan for the Visitor Economy on 15 July 2026. The decision noted the region's LVEP accreditation and approved the plan as a condition of this accreditation. The committee will recommend to the CA Board that the Growth Committee undertakes reporting, monitoring, and review of the LVEP Board and activity.
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Development Funding for Bus Services - KD2026/020
Recommendations approvedThe Combined Authority Board approved the allocation of Section 106 developer funds for bus services on 15/07/2026. The Board approved the allocated spend of proposed Section 106 developer funds, approved the award of a grant funding agreement to Stagecoach East for the Cambridge – Northstowe Citi 5 service, and approved the allocated spend of Section 106 funds for community transport projects in Northstowe and Sawtry. The decision included delegating authority to the Assistant Director of Public Transport, in consultation with the Chief Finance Officer and Monitoring Officer, to enter into grant funding agreements and subject to further detailed design and subsidy control assessments.
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Established Mayoral Status Application - KD2026/018
Recommendations ApprovedThe Combined Authority Board decided on 15/07/2026 to approve the Mayor submitting an application for Established Mayoral Strategic Authority status. The Board also noted engagement with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, constituent councils, and regional partners.
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Greater Cambridge Transport Strategy - KD2026/041
Recommendations approvedThe Transport Committee and Combined Authority Board decided to approve the interim technical report prepared by Steer as the agreed interim strategic position for the emerging Greater Cambridge Transport Strategy on 15 July 2026. This decision noted that further work will be required before its completion in November 2026.
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Skills Bootcamp Funding 2026 and Beyond - KD2026/040
Recommendations approvedThe Combined Authority Board approved the utilisation of £2m for Skills Bootcamps and delegated authority to the Executive Director Place and Economy and Assistant Director for Skills and Employment to manage contracts and agreements. This decision was made on 15/07/2026. The delegation includes authority to extend and vary existing contracts, enter into grant funding agreements, and undertake procurement exercises for new contracts.
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Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) - KD2025/077
Recommendations approvedThe Combined Authority Board approved the Local Nature Recovery Strategy Delivery Plan on 15/07/2026. The decision was to approve the plan, which sets out immediate and short-term actions for nature recovery. The Combined Authority Board also noted the appointment of Natural Cambridgeshire as the LNRS delivery partner for FY26/27 and the grant of £185k from DEFRA for managing LNRS delivery.
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Bus Franchising: Independent Review into Bus Franchising Implementation Pathways, Strategic Delivery Plan and Next Steps – KD2025/051
Recommendations approvedThe Combined Authority Board approved recommendations regarding bus franchising implementation pathways. The Board noted the Mayor's Independent Review and a Strategic Delivery Plan addressing key concerns. Authority was delegated to the Assistant Director Public Transport to procure consultant and contractor services for bus franchising implementation, including works for the Peterborough bus depot.
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Strategic Place Partnership Update - KD2026/022
Recommendations approvedThe Combined Authority Board decided on 15/07/2026 to approve recommendations regarding the Strategic Place Partnership. This included forming and joining the Peterborough City Centre Growth Board, allocating Homes England revenue funding for key projects, and delegating authority for procurement and contract entry. The Board agreed to delegate authority to the Executive Director of Place and Economy to finalise terms of reference for the Peterborough City Centre Growth Board, allocate Homes England revenue funding for 2026/27 to specific projects, and procure activity and enter contracts for the utilisation of this fund.
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Q4 Corporate Performance Report
Information OnlyThe Combined Authority Board noted performance information relating to the Combined Authority’s Key Performance Indicators and progress on delivery of the Annual Business Plan on 15/07/2026.
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Community Transport Review – KD2026/023
Recommendations approvedThe Combined Authority Board approved continued support for local Dial A Ride and volunteer car schemes through annual grant agreements. They also approved not expanding the South Cambridgeshire Taxi voucher provision, continuing current arrangements subject to means testing of existing members and not accepting new applications. The Executive Director Transport was delegated authority to enter into these grant agreements.
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Business Case for Skills Capital Funding - KD2026/021
Recommendations approvedThe Combined Authority Board, Skills Committee, and Funding Committee decided to approve the Business Case for the Skills Capital Programme (Post-16 Capacity) on 15/07/2026. This approval authorises £15,143,069 for the programme, with individual projects to be approved later. The decision includes the integration of £582,108 capital and £107,000 revenue funding from the FE Cold Spots programme.
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