Cambridgeshire County Council serves as the primary local government authority for the non-metropolitan county of Cambridgeshire, operating independently from the City of Peterborough since 1998. The council represents 61 councillors across 59 electoral divisions, with its administrative headquarters located at New Shire Hall in Alconbury Weald, near Huntingdon. This relocation from Cambridge in 2021 marked a significant shift for the authority, which had maintained offices in the historic city for decades.
The council's responsibilities span across crucial public services that directly impact residents' daily lives. Education remains a cornerstone service, with the authority overseeing primary and secondary school admissions throughout the county, maintaining educational standards, and supporting special educational needs provision. Social care services form another critical element, encompassing both children's services and adult social care, including support for vulnerable individuals, safeguarding measures, and community-based care programmes.
Transport infrastructure management represents a substantial portion of the council's remit, covering road maintenance, traffic management, and public transport coordination. The authority manages the concessionary bus pass scheme in partnership with the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, oversees parking permits, and maintains the county's extensive network of roads and pathways. They've implemented innovative schemes like the Household Recycling Centre e-permit system to streamline waste management services.
Since 2017, the county council has operated as a constituent member of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, collaborating with other local authorities under the leadership of the directly-elected Mayor. This partnership approach enables coordinated planning and service delivery across the wider region, particularly in areas like transport strategy and economic development. The arrangement demonstrates the evolving nature of local governance in response to regional needs.
The council's online services platform reflects modern approaches to public service delivery, with thousands of residents now accessing services digitally each month. From applying for Blue Badges to reporting road issues, the digital transformation allows 24/7 access to essential services. The authority maintains separate contact numbers for specific services, including dedicated lines for adult social care, children's services, highways matters, and library services, ensuring residents can reach the appropriate department efficiently.
Financial management and transparency feature prominently in the council's operations, with regular budget consultations and published accounts demonstrating accountability to taxpayers. The authority manages a complex budget covering diverse service areas while navigating financial pressures common to local government. Research and statistics teams provide evidence-based insights to inform policy decisions, while emergency planning ensures preparedness for potential crises affecting the county.
Working in partnership with five district councils across Cambridgeshire - Cambridge City, East Cambridgeshire, Fenland, Huntingdonshire, and South Cambridgeshire - the county council operates within a two-tier system where different authorities handle specific services. This structure requires careful coordination to ensure seamless service delivery, with the county council focusing on strategic, county-wide services while district councils manage more localised functions like housing and planning applications.
The council's commitment to accessibility extends beyond service delivery to include comprehensive language and translation services, recognising the diverse communities within Cambridgeshire. Privacy policies and data protection measures ensure compliance with regulations while maintaining public trust. The authority actively engages with residents through consultations, surveys, and feedback mechanisms, including the Quality of Life survey that helps shape future service priorities.
Library services represent a vital community resource managed by the county council, with facilities across Cambridgeshire providing not just book lending but also digital resources, learning opportunities, and community spaces. The Library Live programme offers events and activities, while initiatives like Rhymetime and Storytime support early years development. The service adapts to changing needs, offering online account management and expanding digital collections alongside traditional offerings.
The current Liberal Democrat majority administration, following the 2025 elections, continues the council's evolution in addressing contemporary challenges. Climate change initiatives, digital transformation projects, and demographic pressures shape strategic planning. The council balances preserving Cambridgeshire's heritage with managing growth pressures, particularly given the county's position within the economically dynamic Greater Cambridge area and its proximity to London.
For residents seeking assistance or information, the council maintains comprehensive contact facilities, though most reception offices remain closed to public visits following operational changes. The emphasis on digital channels reflects broader societal shifts while maintaining telephone and written communication options for those unable to access online services. This multi-channel approach ensures no resident is excluded from accessing vital public services, demonstrating the council's commitment to serving all communities across Cambridgeshire.
