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Government set to unlock thousands of jobs in Greater Cambridge

Government plans could see thousands of jobs delivered, with up to £400m already allocated to support development in Cambridge and surrounding areas. 

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Government set to unlock thousands of jobs in Greater Cambridge
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A new consultation has opened for a proposed development corporation in Greater Cambridge, aiming to boost jobs, homes and infrastructure across the region. 

Government plans could see thousands of affordable homes and jobs delivered, with up to £400m already allocated to support development in Cambridge and surrounding areas. 

The focus is on speeding up major projects, assembling land, regenerating key sites and attracting investment.

Housing and Planning Minister Matthew Pennycook, said: “This government is determined to realise the full potential of Greater Cambridge to the benefit of its existing communities and the country as a whole. 

“The centrally-led development corporation we are proposing would provide us with the necessary powers, authority and access to finance to unleash ambitious and high-quality sustainable growth in Cambridge and its environs in the years ahead. 

“I encourage all those with an interest in the future of Greater Cambridge to respond to our consultation and share their expertise, insights and knowledge.”

Chief Secretary to the Treasury James Murray, said: “We have huge ambitions for the Oxford–Cambridge corridor. 

“This is an important step that will accelerate development in Cambridge and drive investment and growth for the whole country. 

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“A new development corporation will help us build more homes, create more quality jobs close to home, and raise living standards for working people across the area.”

The Cambridge Growth Company, chaired by Peter Freeman, is working with local partners and industry to remove barriers to growth. 

A future development corporation could provide further leadership and long-term delivery for the region. 

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Freeman said: “We all recognise that Greater Cambridge has an incredible track record for delivering good quality and sustainable growth and has even greater ambition to see its innovation economy power inclusive jobs and prosperity for all. 

“But we also all know that there are significant problems to address which are increasingly holding the area back. 

“We must make sure that we make Cambridge and all the towns and villages around it more liveable than they are today.”

Freeman added: “I strongly believe that a development corporation will give Greater Cambridge the tools, certainty and investment ability needed to deliver an infrastructure-first approach to sustainable growth. 

“The role of a development corporation is to stay true to a shared vision, through economic cycles, and deliver it. 

“When we look back, there will be better transport; no shortage of, and better quality, water; there will be more open public spaces and more protected space for nature; there will be more jobs and more genuinely affordable homes.”

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