Local MPs clash over future council plans for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough
Row erupts as major council restructure options spark heated debate
A Westminster Hall debate saw sharp exchanges between local MPs over plans to reorganise councils across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.
The government is due to replace the area’s seven existing councils with new unitary authorities from April 2028, with ministers expected to choose between four submitted options this autumn.
Huntingdon MP Ben Obese‑Jecty, who backs Option E to create a sole Huntingdonshire unitary, warned that Option D — which would split the district — appeared to be “a stitched‑up” choice already favoured by government. The proposal is supported by Peterborough City Council and Labour MPs Sam Carling and Andrew Pakes.
Mr Carling challenged the claims, saying allegations that Labour MPs had been pre‑briefed were “untrue” and risked damaging public confidence. He questioned why Mr Obese‑Jecty had posted online suggesting an announcement was imminent when none had been made.
Minister for Local Government Jim McMahon said the delay in choosing an option “was not taken lightly” and urged MPs not to make accusations that “cast aspersions on the process”. He said a decision would come by October, allowing elections in May 2027 ahead of the 2028 launch.
Options Under Consideration:
Option A: Two councils — Peterborough/Huntingdonshire/Fenland, and Cambridge/East Cambridgeshire/South Cambridgeshire.
Option B: Two councils — Greater Cambridge, and North Cambridgeshire & Peterborough.
Option D: Three councils — including a “Greater Peterborough” authority combining Peterborough with western Huntingdonshire.
Option E: Three councils — splitting Huntingdonshire into North East and Central authorities, plus Greater Cambridge.