In a rare show of political unity, leaders across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough have joined forces to demand Government funding for a long-awaited rail upgrade they say is crucial for unlocking the East of England’s economic potential.
The Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority Board has issued a joint letter to Chancellor Rachel Reeves urging support for the Ely Area Capacity Enhancement (EACE) programme ahead of next week’s Comprehensive Spending Review. The letter underlines the cross-party commitment to modernising a stretch of railway described as one of the UK’s most congested bottlenecks.
The EACE project promises to deliver substantial improvements in both passenger and freight capacity, with local leaders touting a return on investment of up to £4.89 for every £1 spent. The scheme is seen as a linchpin in enabling future growth across the region—particularly in fast-developing sectors like life sciences and advanced manufacturing.
Investing in the Region, Investing in the Nation
Backing from the Combined Authority signals growing momentum behind Ely’s role in connecting the UK’s strategic Oxford-Cambridge corridor. Recent Government interest in expanding innovation in Cambridge—highlighted by support for the University’s proposed city centre hub—has added urgency to the call for transport investment to match.
The Mayor praised the unified stance, saying:
“I’m proud to see the Combined Authority Board united in speaking with one voice for the future of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. By working together across party lines, we’re sending a clear and positive message: investing in the Ely junction is key to unlocking growth not just in our region, but nationally..”
With the Comprehensive Spending Review imminent, regional leaders say the time for action is now. The groundwork has been laid, the economic case is strong, and local consensus is clear. All that remains is the green light from Westminster.
