On 5th May 2025, Paul Bristow officially began his tenure as the Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, bringing immediate action to his campaign promises. In his first day in office, Mayor Bristow outlined a clear shift in direction for the Combined Authority, focusing on pace, purpose, and delivery.
Key Actions Taken on Day One
- Ending the "War on Motorists"
Mayor Bristow announced the immediate removal of the target to reduce car miles driven by 15% by 2030, fulfilling his pledge to stand up for drivers and reconsider policies that may have been detrimental to motorists. - Strategic Reset
He suspended the existing Corporate Strategy and Mayoral pledges pending a full review. This move aims to align the Combined Authority’s strategic priorities with the clear policy direction set out in his manifesto. - Advocating for Alternative Transport Solutions
The Mayor wrote to the East-West Rail Company proposing a Cambridge light rail system to connect Cambourne to the city before the arrival of East-West Rail. This initiative seeks to provide a quicker and more cost-effective southern route that avoids disruptive embankments through villages like Hardwick and Comberton. - Focusing on Regional Priorities
Mayor Bristow has written to the Government about transferring the Greater South East Net Zero Hub's responsibilities to a more appropriate authority. This action ensures that the Combined Authority focuses on work that directly supports local residents, rather than activities outside the region. - Re-evaluating Financial Commitments
In line with his manifesto pledge, the Mayor has started the process of removing allowances for the chair, vice-chair, and members of the Combined Authority Business Board. With no future Government funding for the Business Board, this move aims to ensure that public money is focused on frontline priorities. - Assembling a Delivery-Focused Team
Key appointments have been made to support the Mayor in delivering results for local residents, ensuring that the leadership team is aligned with his commitment to effective governance.
Looking Ahead
Mayor Bristow emphasised that these actions are just the beginning. He is determined to bring pace and purpose to the role, stating, “These are just the first steps in making the Mayor matter to you. Today I am ending the war on motorists, ensuring that your money is spent effectively, and putting my manifesto priorities in place. We are getting Cambridgeshire and Peterborough moving.”