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Ride, Cambridge), 15 (Haslingfield to Royston), 19A (Cambridge to Landbeach), and 67 (Commercial Bus Service) have been withdrawn.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.

This week in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority:

Bus Franchising Faces Major Hurdles: Funding Gaps and Depot Dilemmas

The ambitious plans for bus franchising across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough are facing significant challenges, as revealed in recent discussions by the Audit and Governance Committee. While the goal is to create a more efficient and passenger-focused bus network, the path forward is fraught with financial uncertainties and practical hurdles, particularly concerning depot provision and the long-term financial sustainability of the service.

The committee heard that the proposed franchising model relies heavily on fare revenue, with a strict no mayoral precept guardrail meaning any funding gap must be covered by fare increases. This has led to concerns that fares could rise by as much as 158% over inflation, a move that could disproportionately impact lower-income residents and potentially deter passengers. Councillor Mike Todd-Jones highlighted that this is a political decision, as the Mayor could choose to implement a precept to ensure the scheme's success.

A key concern raised was the provision of depots. While current capacity is deemed adequate for existing service levels, the transition to electric vehicles, a stated aim for efficiency and environmental benefits, would necessitate new or significantly adapted depots. The report suggests that building new depots would be easier to equip for future energy needs, but the cost implications are substantial. Councillor Leon Daniels, presenting the findings, acknowledged the risk of delayed or inadequate depot provision, but stated that operators are contractually obliged to ensure their own provision, with the authority only stepping in if necessary. However, the potential for operators to withdraw services or demand more funding if passenger numbers decline remains a significant risk.

The committee also noted the complexity of franchising, with Councillor David Jarvis expressing concern that the authority may not be adequately resourced or experienced to manage such a large-scale procurement and contract management exercise. The report acknowledges a learning curve for the authority, with time built into the financial model for staff to gain experience and collect crucial data on passenger movements. However, the sheer scale of the undertaking, particularly in a declining bus market, raises questions about the long-term viability and the potential for the authority to bear increased financial risk.

• Audit and Governance Committee meeting on 25 June 2026

New Devolution Powers Granted, But Scrutiny and Governance Questions Loom

The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act has officially granted the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority new powers, particularly in areas like culture and rural affairs. While this expansion of competence is a significant step, it has also brought to light a wave of governance changes and uncertainties, especially concerning the authority's scrutiny arrangements and the upcoming Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).

The Audit and Governance Committee discussed the implications of the Act, noting that further guidance on scrutiny arrangements is expected. The authority is actively preparing for established status and an integrated settlement, with an application for established status due for board approval in July. This move aims to streamline funding and provide greater flexibility in achieving outcomes.

However, concerns were raised about the Mayor's power to appoint commissioners, particularly regarding their remuneration and accountability. Councillor Lucy Frazer sought assurance that the Board would be consulted on any such appointments, a sentiment echoed by other members who emphasised the need for clarity on the role and working relationship of any appointed commissioners. Mayor Paul Bristow assured the committee that no appointments were planned at this stage and that he would fully understand his powers before making any decisions.

The Act also necessitates significant updates to the Combined Authority's Constitution. Work is underway to incorporate new provisions for the Mayor's powers, overview and scrutiny requirements, and the reintroduction of access to the local government pension scheme for councillors. Further amendments are anticipated, particularly concerning planning legislation, as the authority adapts to its expanded remit.

• Audit and Governance Committee meeting on 25 June 2026

Roads in Crisis: Fenland Residents Demand Action on Potholes and Substandard Repairs

Residents in Fenland are facing a growing crisis of crumbling roads, with potholes and substandard repairs leaving many frustrated and concerned. Councillor Brenda Barber of Fenland District Council voiced these concerns directly to the Combined Authority Board, highlighting the poor state of roads and the inadequate response to winter maintenance needs.

Potholes have been a few of the repairs that have been attempted have been substandard and have failed within weeks, if not days, Councillor Barber stated, painting a stark picture of the current situation. She urged Mayor Paul Bristow to use his discretionary powers to ensure Cambridgeshire County Council, which holds statutory responsibility for road maintenance, is better prepared and more responsive.

The Mayor acknowledged the county council's responsibility and noted that the Combined Authority has provided over £33 million for road repairs. He also mentioned a trial funded by the authority to investigate more resilient road construction methods for areas with peat soils, aiming to reduce recurring maintenance issues. However, Councillor Barber pressed further, detailing the persistent problems on Sutton Road, A1101, a key route into Wisbech.

The Mayor has offered to visit the road with Councillor Barber to witness the conditions firsthand, a move that will be closely watched by residents hoping for tangible improvements.

• Combined Authority Board meeting on 03 June 2026

£15 Million Boost for Post-16 Education and Construction Skills

A significant £15 million capital programme, funded by the Department for Education, is set to transform post-16 education and construction skills across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. This initiative aims to expand learning capacity, meet growing employer demand, and directly support the goals of the Local Growth Plan.

The funding will be channelled into 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 programme is designed to create at least 31 additional learner places per site by September 2028, with all capital investments to be completed by March 2030.

A key aspect of this programme is its flexibility, particularly through the integration of £689,000 from the underspend of the FE Cold Spots programme. This residual funding offers scope for more innovative approaches beyond the strict constraints of the Department for Education's core capital funding. Councillor Bridget Smith raised concerns about the sufficiency of revenue funding to support these new facilities and ensure accessibility for young people, particularly regarding transport. While the core DfE funding is restrictive, the FE Cold Spots funding offers some flexibility to address these issues.

The programme will operate on a two-stage process: first, establishing the overall funding envelope and delivery model, and second, approving individual projects based on provider applications. This ensures a strategic and needs-led approach to investment, aiming to create a more coordinated and impactful response to capacity challenges in the region's education sector.

• Funding Committee meeting on 22 June 2026

Other Matters

• Staffing Committee Appoints New Transport Director: The Staffing Committee has agreed to appoint a preferred candidate for the vital role of Director for Transport. This decision will be recommended to the Combined Authority Board for noting at their upcoming meeting. The committee also resolved to exclude the press and public from discussions relating to specific individuals due to the sensitive nature of the information.
• Growth Committee Tackles Spatial Strategy and Visitor Economy: The Growth Committee made several recommendations to the Combined Authority Board, including approving the Statement of Intent for the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Plan (Spatial Development Strategy). They also endorsed plans for the Local Nature Recovery Strategy Delivery Plan and noted progress on the Strategic Place Partnership, which aims to drive home delivery in collaboration with Homes England. The committee also agreed to establish a Growth Board for the Peterborough City Centre and to join the Peterborough City Centre Growth Board.
• Audit and Governance Committee Reviews Ethical Framework and Bus Franchising: The Audit and Governance Committee reviewed updates to the ethical framework, including the Code of Conduct and a revised Gifts and Hospitality Policy, with a £50 registration limit. They also discussed the Strategic Delivery Plan for bus franchising, noting the Mayor's Independent Review and the ongoing work to address financial and operational challenges. The committee also reviewed draft statements of accounts and noted the provisional audit planning report for 2025/26.

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.