June 2024
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This conference assessed latest developments and next steps for the Oxford to Cambridge region, and proposals for continued development and investment following the establishment of the pan-regional partnership.
It was an opportunity to discuss key issues at a time of heightened focus on regional development policy in the run up to the General Election.
Delegates considered progress so far and priorities moving forward if the partnership’s aims are to be achieved, including coordinating collaboration between local authorities to develop economic and infrastructure strategy. A focus for discussion was next steps for engagement with communities, businesses, investors, higher education and other key stakeholders in the future of the region.
The agenda brought out latest thinking on addressing challenges for taking forward infrastructure, transport and housing development plans, along with issues for local communities and residents.
We expected discussion on the viability of the East-West Rail project and strategic priorities for unlocking economic benefits, following NAO’s recent investigation, which highlighted the need for strategic policy coordination if anticipated benefits are to be realised.
The conference was an opportunity to assess implications of the publication in the Spring Budget of the Case for Cambridge, with plans to establish a development corporation and proposals to increase house building in the area before 2050.
Further sessions included discussion on the region’s environment and sustainability, as well as reflections on the development of the Environment Agency’s Integrated Water Management Framework for the region. Delegates considered strategies for meeting net zero targets and water management as part of wider development plans in the region.
Stakeholders and policymakers also assessed key issues for the region’s Investment Atlas database, following commencement of the project in May 2023. They discussed its potential to aid investor decision-making and boost confidence, as well as its effectiveness in providing investment opportunities and strengthening existing assets as it aims to unlock international and private sector investment for the region.
We are pleased to have been able to include a keynote session with Dipesh Shah, Independent Chair, Oxford to Cambridge Partnership.
The conference was an opportunity for stakeholders to consider the issues in the presence of key policy officials who attended from Defra; DLUHC; DfT; DSIT; HMT; ONS; and Ofsted.
