Huntingdonshire District Council Hosts Ambassadors, Highlights Defence and Innovation Role
Huntingdonshire District Council recently welcomed ambassadors from Nordic and Baltic states, alongside defence, government and industry leaders, for a two-day programme showcasing the district’s growing importance in defence, investment, and innovation. The events, held on March 9th and 10th, highlighted Huntingdonshire’s position within the UK’s Oxford–Cambridge Supercluster.
Showcasing Regional Opportunities
The programme began on March 9th with meetings at Pathfinder House in Huntingdon, bringing together ambassadors from Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Latvia, and Lithuania. Discussions focused on regional opportunities and Huntingdonshire’s contribution to the UK’s defence and security capabilities. A networking reception followed, featuring keynote addresses from Councillor Sarah Conboy, Executive Leader of Huntingdonshire District Council, and Charlotte Horobin, Chief Executive of Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce.
Partnerships and Economic Growth
Cllr Conboy stated, “It was a pleasure to welcome ambassadors, government representatives and industry leaders to Huntingdonshire. These events provided an opportunity to showcase the strength of our district, the partnerships we are building, and our growing role in supporting the UK’s defence, innovation and economic growth priorities. We are proud of what Huntingdonshire can offer and look forward to continuing to work with partners to unlock future opportunities.”
Charlotte Horobin added, “Huntingdonshire has a strong and growing reputation as a place where defence, innovation and business collaboration reach together. By bringing international partners, government and industry leaders to the district, this programme has highlighted the opportunities available here and the importance of strong partnerships in supporting investment, skills and long-term economic growth.”
Place Discovery Tour
On March 10th, the Council hosted a “Place Discovery” tour, offering briefings and site visits to international defence companies and investors. Locations included the Alconbury Weald Enterprise Zone and RAF Wyton, where attendees learned about Project FAIRFAX, potential partnerships, the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) Local Growth Plan, and the district’s collaborative approach to attracting investment. The tour emphasized the Council’s commitment to “Pride in Place” and an “Inclusive Economy,” key themes within its Place Strategy.
Oxford–Cambridge Supercluster
The events underscored Huntingdonshire’s ambitions for future growth and continued collaboration across government, industry, and academia, solidifying its role within the Oxford–Cambridge Supercluster.