Northampton is a key part of the Oxford-Cambridge arc, with potential to boost growth and address levelling-up. The area has rich industrial heritage and opportunities for life sciences and high-performance technology businesses. However, navigating overlapping decision-making bodies can be complex.

The MP notes that his constituency has taken a significant share of housing developments. He calls for fair distribution of housing targets and emphasizes the need for ongoing infrastructure projects to support economic growth in the region.

Does my hon. Friend accept that the Liberal Democrats are deeply involved in the arc process, having people on standing committees and controlling this process without offering anything unique. He criticised the handling of the Oxford to Cambridge expressway, highlighting a lack of consultation and differing attitudes towards the project from different areas. He stressed that unless a different approach is taken with the arc, similar issues will arise. John questioned the composition of the body responsible for pushing through the arc, noting its complexity and potential lack of control. He saw potential in aligning universities and research centres but warned of difficulties due to a lack of common identity along the arc. He also asked about the breakdown of the 1 million housing plan and expressed concern over the risk of attracting Londoners rather than promoting local growth.

The MP supports her colleague's concerns about democratic accountability and the potential impact of new housing on green spaces in Buckinghamshire. She calls for more protection of existing green areas, which she argues are critical to air quality and biodiversity. Thanks Andrew Lewer for highlighting the Oxford-Cambridge arc's potential. Beaconsfield historically linked London and Oxford but is not defined by such qualities or natural links like other regions.

My hon. Friend points out that other regions have regional identities with a democratic representation through a regional Mayor, which is not the case in the Oxford-Cambridge arc. Mr. Fuller criticised the Oxford-Cambridge arc plan as a top-down approach that undermines local democratic accountability and housing discretion. He questioned whether it was a plan for housing or economic development, pointing out that if it aimed to meet London's housing needs, it would displace growth to other areas. Mr. Fuller also challenged the Government's focus on connecting universities to drive economic growth, asking for international examples where this has worked.

The MP highlights concerns about top-down planning decisions and the need for local decision-making in infrastructure projects. He supports Buckinghamshire's withdrawal from the arc and its alternative recovery proposal, emphasizing the importance of local consent and democratic processes.

I have concerns about the outmoded plans for the Oxford-Cambridge arc, which were based on pre-pandemic assumptions. I question whether the Government has re-evaluated these plans in light of changes to commuting and working patterns. The contribution highlights issues such as affordable housing, environmental impact, and the need for proper local consultation. Additionally, it calls for a rail link that is fully electrified to support sustainable transport.