The Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Dr Nik Johnson, will take a three month plus leave of absence for treatment of an ongoing medical condition. 

The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority announced the news this morning (November 8) following the advice of the mayor’s doctor from the Royal Papworth Hospital. 

From Friday November 18 the Combined Authority will be temporarily led by Cllr Anna Smith, leader of Cambridge City Council, who will take over as deputy mayor. 

Cllr Smith will act in place of the mayor for the duration of his absence or longer if necessary. 

The authority said that work will continue as normal during the mayor’s absence, and that it would not impact the delivery of any projects. 

Ely Standard: The Combined Authority will be temporarily led by Cllr Anna Smith (pictured), leader of Cambridge City Council, who will take over as deputy mayor. The Combined Authority will be temporarily led by Cllr Anna Smith (pictured), leader of Cambridge City Council, who will take over as deputy mayor. (Image: CAPCA)

The Improvement Framework will continue to be progressed by the Improvement Board and there will be no impact on the delivery of public transport and the important bus strategy work, the delivery of skills, climate or infrastructure work. 

Interim CEO of the Combined Authority, Gordon Mitchell, said: “I have spoken with the mayor, deputy mayors and leaders of the Combined Authority and have agreement that they will work closely to deliver on the sustainable growth ambition, develop our strategy direction and the vital work that the Combined Authority is currently delivering. 

“We all wish Dr Nik Johnson a speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming him back when he is recovered.”