Opinion: ‘Now for Embankment Masterplan’

As regular readers will know, there is much to be excited about in terms of plans for future growth in Peterborough.

Fletton Quays, North Westgate, the Station Quarter, Northminster and other city centre locations are all set to be transformed over the coming years.

I’ve been in local government for over 40 years and I can honestly say that our current regeneration plans are the most ambitious we’ve had since the Development Corporation way back in the 1960s.

Another area we are working to enhance is the Embankment and this week announced that we are moving forward with the production of a Masterplan, showcasing the 90-acre site as a year-round destination.

The development will include the new university campus, a proposed new stadium for Peterborough United, retention of assets such as the Lido, Key Theatre and open green spaces for leisure and recreational use.

It will open up the city’s river frontage making it a destination in its own right, with the installation of a new pedestrian footbridge to Fletton Quays, subject to funding, and improving the use of open green space along the river.

Last week I addressed delegates at an Investors Conference about our future plans. It was a really positive event and highlighted everything that Peterborough has going for it. For example, did you know that over the last Century, Peterborough saw the second highest rate of jobs growth of any UK city and our enterprising population has seen the business start-up rate consistently ranked amongst the top 20 cities in the UK over the last 10 years?

There are over 7,000 businesses operating here, the A1 is on our doorstep, and we will soon be able to go direct to London King’s Cross in less than 40 minutes, a great benefit for commuters and shoppers alike!

On top of that, the city boasts a £30 million full-fibre network installed by CityFibre that reaches nearly every home and business premises.

Peterborough is growing fast, and we want it to remain a city where people and businesses can realise their ambitions. These plans will unlock even more potential within our city, creating a refreshed and welcoming environment where people want to live, work, and visit.

One of the key ways of controlling the spread of Cvoid-19 is for anyone who has symptoms of the virus, or has tested positive, to self-isolate.

By staying at home and avoiding contact with people you are stopping the virus spreading to others, it’s simple but highly effective.

However, self-isolation will place some people in difficulty, particularly those on low incomes who can’t work from home.

So I’d like to inform anyone who falls into this category that a one-off payment of £500 is now available.

To find out more about the scheme and whether you are eligible visit: https://www.peterborough.gov.uk/healthcare/public-health/coronavirus/self-isolation-payment

The government’s efforts to control the spread of Covid-19 nationally are progressing with the creation of the three tier system for local authorities.

Here in Peterborough, we’re continuing to raise awareness of Covid-19 restrictions among communities and businesses and our efforts have been boosted by a government grant.

The £125,000 grant will be used to support compliance checks on businesses and individuals ensuring restrictions such as social distancing and face mask wearing measures are being adhered to, helping to control the spread of the virus.

Councils can use the funding to deploy ‘Covid-19 Marshals’ to advise and support members of the public on following restrictions. We will consider this approach and work with partners to determine how to spend the funding, so watch this space.

It was with great sadness that I learned of the recent passing of Posh legend Tommy Robson.

As a lifelong supporter of the club, I can recall his playing days and Tommy was a wizard on the wing. During his 13 years as a first-team player he appeared in 559 matches, a club record which is unlikely to ever be broken.

Tommy went on to act as an ambassador for the club, supporting many charities and good causes. In July he was deservedly awarded the Freedom of the City - the city’s highest honour, recognising his incredible contribution to the club and our communities.

Above all else Tommy was an absolute gentleman, who always had a smile and a few friendly words whenever I saw him out and about.

I would like to offer my sympathy to Tommy’s friends and family. We will be working with the football club to see what we can do to remember him.