The Greater Cambridge and Greater Peterborough Local Enterprise Partnership (GCGPLEP) is causing the area ‘reputational damage,' the region's mayor has warned.

Cambridgeshire and Peterborough mayor, James Palmer, has written to the LEP, suggesting the LEP could be merged with the combined authority.

The letter follows the announcement that the Government is withholding funding for the LEP while a National Audit Office investigation takes place.

Mayor Palmer said: ‘It is clear that GCGPLEP is no longer able to fulfil the purpose for which it was established, specifically to provide much-needed help and financial support for local businesses.

‘Furthermore, the current position is creating reputational damage and will inhibit the ability of the area as a whole to attract inward investment at a time when we face such a huge deficit in our infrastructure.

‘It is important that we provide leadership, and act urgently and decisively to restore trust, including that of the wider business community and central government.'

Deputy mayor for the combined authority, Robin Howe, added: ‘We envisage a future where the combined authority and LEP operate under a single umbrella, presenting ourselves to businesses and residents with singular ambition, objectives and delivery focus, while saving money for the taxpayer.'