This week in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority:

Bus Services Face Uncertain Future Amidst Funding Concerns

The future of bus services across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is under scrutiny as the Transport Committee grapples with funding challenges and the implications of the proposed Bus Network Reimagined project. While the aim is to create a more sustainable and efficient network, concerns have been raised that the current proposals could lead to service cuts, particularly impacting rural communities.

The committee noted the key findings from Transport Focus's 2025 Your Bus Journey Survey, which highlighted areas for improvement in bus user experience. However, the overarching concern remains the financial sustainability of the bus network. The independent review into bus franchising implementation pathways, led by Leon Daniels, pointed to a potential reduction in bus mileage by up to 38% by 2029 and 19% by 2035, if current funding limitations persist. This has led to criticism that the current approach may be managing decline rather than fostering growth.

Councillor Alex Beckett expressed significant concern, stating that the language used in reports, such as revised rural connectivity model and simplified rural network, could be code for cuts. He emphasised the vital role bus services play for residents needing to access work, education, and essential services, and urged the authority to focus on growing, not shrinking, the bus network.

The committee also discussed the potential impact of technological advancements, such as autonomous vehicles, on the future of public transport. While acknowledging the potential for cost savings and increased flexibility, concerns were raised about how these advancements might affect employment and the overall public transport offer.

• Transport Committee meeting on 17 June 2026

Adult Skills System Needs Sharper Focus on Outcomes for Economic Growth

An Adult Skills Review has highlighted that while the current system is effective in providing access to education and training, it needs a sharper focus on outcomes to better support economic growth and individual progression. The review, which examined how £12 million of devolved funding is being used, found that while participation and achievement are high, there is limited visibility of progression into jobs and higher-level skills.

The committee endorsed the findings, recommending that future commissioning, performance management, and strategic planning for adult skills (2026-29) should prioritise outcomes and strategic alignment with economic growth. This shift aims to ensure that public funding delivers maximum economic impact.

Concerns were raised about the accessibility of adult education, particularly in areas like Fenland and Peterborough, which are identified as having significant needs. While the report indicates targeted efforts in these areas, councillors stressed the importance of ensuring equitable access and addressing specific local needs.

• Skills Committee meeting on 15 June 2026

Investment in Post-16 Education and Construction Skills to Boost Future Workforce

A £14.5 million capital programme, funded by the Department for Education, is set to expand post-16 education capacity and boost construction and technical skills provision across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. This initiative aims to address growing learner numbers and meet employer demand, supporting the delivery of the Local Growth Plan.

The programme will fund capital projects in Further Education colleges and Sixth Forms to create additional learning places and modern training facilities. A key strength identified is the targeted, needs-based approach to investment, with strong alignment to employer demand and growth sectors. The process will involve a transparent, competitive application process for eligible providers.

While the focus is on physical capacity, the committee also discussed the importance of teacher capacity and the need to ensure a skilled workforce is available to deliver the training. The programme is designed to be a coordinated, system-wide effort, working with existing providers to maximise impact.

• Skills Committee meeting on 15 June 2026

Other Matters

• Mileage Rate Increase: Staff will now be reimbursed at 55p per mile for approved mileage, an increase from 45p, backdated to April 6, 2026. This aligns with updated HMRC guidance and is expected to cost just under £5,000 annually. The majority of claims are linked to grant-funded initiatives.
• Transport Director Shortlisting: Four candidates have been recommended for interview for the crucial role of Executive Director for Transport, following a shortlisting process. The details of this were discussed in a private session due to the sensitive nature of the information.
• Local Growth Plan Delivery: The Local Growth Plan is transitioning from document to delivery, with a programme management board overseeing seven workstreams. Updates on sector plans, inward investment, and place-based investments, including Peterborough Station Quarter, will be provided.
• Nature Recovery Strategy: An initial delivery plan for the Local Nature Recovery Strategy has been proposed, focusing on immediate actions to enhance nature across the region. Natural Cambridgeshire will act as the delivery partner, supported by grant funding.