Key outputs of the discussion
Watch the three short clips below for a wrap up of the discussion:
Breaking down silos between the three parts of the regional economy will bring holistic benefits for all. The perception that the future of South Cambridge, Peterborough and the market towns are not linked needs to be dismantled. The region needs more of a collective spirit and to recognise its interconnectedness in terms of being a great place to live, work and invest. Greater Manchester is a good example of disparate parts working together
Policies that are behind-the-times, decision making slowed down by perfectionism and an unwillingness to implement large-scale change will hamper future growth. Stagnation in some areas is already leading to serious issues, such as a workforce with restricted mobility. Formalised structures to facilitate connections and innovation are highly advantageous. Developing strong links with central government has sped up Cambridge’s development and could do the same for Peterborough if local support was provided.
Cambridge has a number of both high and low skills-based issues that need to be solved to balance out inequalities, meet the needs of businesses and avoid a brain drain. Integrating organisations with the school network will help to impart valuable skills while raising awareness of the opportunities that exist. School outreach will also benefit employers by improving the diversity and inclusivity of their workforce. Increasing affordable city centre residential provision by rethinking the high street and increasing occupancy levels of college buildings will help people access skilled employment.
The manner in which buildings are built or refurbished is inherently problematic and discourages sustainable innovation. Getting more parties involved earlier in the design and build process will help solve this. Cambridge faces a particularly tough challenge when it comes to updating its old buildings and must balance its heritage with the need to improve energy efficiency levels. As a natural carbon sink, the fens could help the area create a thriving green economy.
The New Era for the Cambridge Economy (NECE) is a work in progress collaboration between local groups which is helping identify and solve obstacles to growth. Improving the city’s transport networks is a high priority and the lifestyle changes driven by COVID-19 make now a good time to rethink how we move about. However, congested road and rail systems, a lack of political will as well as flawed plans are complicating the issue.
