Sam Carling, Labour MP for North West Cambridgeshire, and Peterborough MP Andrew Pakes have welcomed the decision by Peterborough City Council to pause funding changes to the Industrial Hub service provided by City College Peterborough and to move forward with a full public consultation.
The Industrial Hub offers a vital service to many across the city, supporting independence and opportunity for those who use it. The proposed changes had caused understandable concern among users and families, with many contacting local MPs to campaign for a rethink.
Following pressure from campaigners, councillors and residents, the Council has now confirmed that no final decisions will be made until a six-week consultation has taken place – due to begin in May.
Sam Carling MP said:
“It’s really good news that Peterborough City Council is pausing the decision on funding for the Industrial Hub.
This is an important service that provides so much for the people who use it – moving towards a proper consultation on how it can best meet people’s needs is the right approach.
Peterborough City Council is in a very tough financial position after 14 years of council funding cuts under the previous government – the impacts of which are now having to be dealt with. I know the council’s administration is committed to protecting our city’s services and facilities as they wrestle with that financial situation, and this pause clearly reflects that.
Credit is owed to the campaigners who have shown people across the city the value that the Industrial Hub brings to its users. The stories shared are powerful and have no doubt helped make this possible.”
Andrew Pakes MP said:
“I’m really glad to see the Council listening and pausing this decision to allow a proper consultation to take place.
The Industrial Hub is a valued and much-loved service, and it’s been clear from the many stories shared by families just how important it is in supporting independence, routine and community.
The financial pressures facing the Council are real, but any changes must be shaped by those directly affected. That’s why this consultation is so important, and I want to thank the campaigners, councillors and families who’ve raised their voices so powerfully.”
Peterborough City Council has confirmed that the consultation will be reviewed by the Adults and Health Scrutiny Committee before any final recommendations are brought to Cabinet. Local residents will have the chance to provide feedback on how the service can be improved or adapted to meet changing needs.
Carling added:
“I’d strongly encourage anyone who’s been impacted by this proposal – or who cares about services that promote independence and opportunity – to take part in the consultation when it opens. Your voice really does make a difference.”
