One of our barriers to economic success is the lack of suitable housing in many areas of the county. We are particularly short of housing to support the growth of Cambridge as the tech centre of Europe.

Several years ago Northstowe was selected as the site for a new town to ease housing pressure on Cambridge. The guided busway was built, partly, to provide excellent transport between Northstowe and Cambridge.

Unfortunately, the recession has meant that the houses have not yet been built. It is now time to reinvigorate this process.

Last week I had a meeting with SCDC colleagues, the developers and the HCA. At this meeting I reaffirmed the counties determination to see Northstowe built, and as quickly as possible. All parties were keen to move forward.

A14 improvements remain an essential part of the plan.