Shared Ambition for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough
A Shared Ambition for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough – a clear and uniting vision guiding the region’s growth and development to 2050 – has been launched today.
This bold new direction has been developed through extensive collaboration with local councils, residents, businesses, and other partners, and outlines a shared vision for a future linked to four outcomes of being an Equitable, Pioneering, Connected, and Resilient region. Making those outcomes real are 14 actionable commitments, which will guide collective actions across the region.
The Shared Ambition also sets out three overarching values which frame how we will work together by Igniting Innovation, Embracing Diversity and Championing Collaboration. These ways of working will be central to shaping policies, strategies and investments, which align with the region’s long-term goals.
It is framed by a single statement articulating what the Shared Ambition aims to achieve and the guiding values: “By igniting innovation, embracing our diversity, and championing collaboration, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough will be globally recognised for our groundbreaking achievements, inspired by our rich history, determined communities and unique natural assets. Harnessing the collective strengths of our fast-growing cities, historic market towns and productive Fen landscapes, we will advance our equitable, pioneering, connected and resilient region”.
- Read a summary version of the Shared Ambition here.
- Read the full Shared Ambition document here.
At its heart, the Shared Ambition is about making sure Cambridgeshire and Peterborough thrives for generations to come. By collectively building on existing strengths and coming together to meet key challenges head-on, particularly that prosperity and opportunity reach every corner of the area.
From sustaining the growth of the fast-growing cities of Cambridge and Peterborough, to the rich heritage of its market towns, and the productivity of the Fens, the plan both celebrates what makes the region special, while focusing on building a future that works for everyone.
In this way the Shared Ambition seeks to make tangible improvements in the everyday lives of people across the region, ensuring that future generations can live in a place that is not only prosperous but fair and sustainable.
The Shared Ambition is a living framework, guiding decision-making across councils, businesses, and public bodies as they work together to turn this vision into reality. It has also been informed by the new State of the Region report, providing an up-to-date evidence base for action. New strategies, including the new Local Growth Plan – a key document being developed to submit to Government to set out key areas of economic focus – will be developed to deliver on Shared Ambition commitments, ensuring that the region’s aspirations are matched by actions that lead to real change.
Central to the development of the Shared Ambition was co-creation with local partners. The public were engaged with through in-person drop-ins and an interactive website where people could comment on the emerging Shared Ambition framework and highlight what was important to them for the future of the region.
Over time, the Combined Authority will track progress through clear outcomes and regular reporting, keeping the focus on delivering results. Collaboration will remain key, with partners from across sectors coming together to ensure that the Shared Ambition remains relevant to change and development across the area.
Dr Nik Johnson, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough said: “This Shared Ambition reflects a key responsibility of the Combined Authority – bringing the region together to build a future where everyone can thrive. By making the most of our strengths and tackling our challenges head-on, we’re laying the groundwork to make Cambridgeshire and Peterborough an even better place for future generations.”
Cllr Sarah Conboy, Leader of Huntingdonshire District Council and Combined Authority Lead Member for Devolution and Place, said: “The Shared Ambition is the culmination of months of engagement and co-production, which has brought together businesses, interest groups, residents, local services and elected representatives from across our area. It’s enabled us to articulate a 20-year vision – a shared ambition for the future that we can unite behind and work together to achieve, helping our region grow, become increasingly resilient, and become rich with opportunities for all who live and work here.”
Professor Ross Renton, Principal of ARU Peterborough, said: “We were pleased to actively participate in the collaborative development of the Shared Ambition for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. Ensuring inclusive growth is essential, so that all members of society can benefit. That’s why we’re delighted by the success and momentum being driven by ARU Peterborough, the region’s newest university, which has been developed with the Combined Authority to ensure that opportunities aren’t limited by someone’s background or geography.”
“ARU Peterborough enables people from the city and surrounding area to have a real stake in the future of this region by equipping them with the skills they need for their own development and providing local employers with the talented graduates required to grow the economy.”
Charlotte Horobin, CEO of Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce, said: ““As a key partner in the Shared Ambition for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, we at the Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce are committed to fostering collaboration between businesses and local communities and other stakeholders to drive sustainable growth across the region. This vision presents an exciting opportunity for businesses to contribute to an equitable, pioneering, and resilient future. By working together, we can ensure that innovation and prosperity benefit all, strengthening the region for generations to come.”
Adrian Chapman, Executive Director of Place and Economy at Peterborough City Council said: “It’s been inspiring to have been involved in the shaping of a Shared Ambition for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. Genuine collaboration is key to driving continued success in all we do together, helping us to turn our vision into reality.
“We’re committed to supporting the delivery of good growth that benefits the whole region, and which will create and support resilient communities where our residents and businesses can thrive.”
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