Huntingdonshire District Council (HDC) has announced it will develop a business case for a standalone unitary authority as part of the government’s review of local government in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.
The proposal, known as Option E, would see Huntingdonshire become a unitary council in its own right, while Peterborough, Fenland and East Cambridgeshire would form a second council, and Cambridge City and South Cambridgeshire a third. All county council services would be transferred to these new authorities.
As well as maintaining existing district boundaries, the proposal will look to reinforce the understood economic geographies of Peterborough, Cambridge and the Fens. It would also look to preserve existing NHS and other public sector boundaries.
Cllr Sarah Conboy, Executive Leader of Huntingdonshire District Council, said: “This is a critical moment for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. Huntingdonshire is actively working to help shape a future that serves every resident, business, and community across our region.
“Huntingdonshire has a proud identity, a strong heritage and an increasingly important role in the nation’s future. With emerging opportunities in defence and innovation, significant housing and job growth in Huntingdon, St Ives, St Neots and Ramsey, along with our strategic location within the Ox–Cam Growth corridor, it is vital that government has the fullest range of options before deciding on local government reorganisation.
“Ultimately, the government will decide which proposals progress based on the evidence presented. This is not about local campaigning or popularity. Our role is to provide a clear, robust and data-led case that demonstrates long-term viability and benefits for the region.”
Business cases for LGR in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough are now being developed. These include the three proposed options for reorganisation, which were announced on 11 June 2025, and a fourth Greater Peterborough option, which has since been put forward by Peterborough City Council.
A formal decision on the council’s preferred option is anticipated in the autumn, with an HDC Extraordinary Council meeting scheduled for November. Final decisions on reorganisation will be made by the Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution, following government consultation.