Local Cambridge Labour Councillors have also welcomed the Government's announcement of up to 60% extra funding for the Cambridge growth agenda

22 March 2007

Coun Lewis Herbert, Leader of the City Labour Group said

'As we said when we met Planning Minister Yvette Cooper recently, we support the Government in wanting joined up delivery before releasing more cash. Building successful new communities, and badly needed affordable housing and infrastructure is an enormous challenge, and not one the councils have ever delivered before.'

'Two things in our view must be right from the start for successful growth. First, the three councils must demonstrate real commitment to joint working, locate staff together and end their traditional pattern of working in isolation. This cannot be a temporary stitch up just to get at some extra money.'

'Second, and this issue still has to be properly addressed, the councils and Cambridgeshire Horizons need to be far more open with local residents on their detailed plans. Proper consultation is needed on issues like transport and traffic, and plans changed if necessary, to win the confidence of local people that they will not be the losers. '

'Only when these two key issues are addressed, can all the scattered bits of this massive new jigsaw be put in place.'