Plans for transport, housing and “much needed” employment land in the county were the topics of discussion when Mayor James Palmer met with members of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).

Discussing issues affecting small businesses, the meeting was chaired by Alan Todd, FSB’s area lead for Cambridge, and was attended by eight other businesses owners from all over the area.

They also discussed access to skilled personnel and protecting town and city centres including issues around business rates and parking. They also discussed the potential for increasing international trade and protecting the environment.

Alan Todd said: “This was a very interesting meeting and I am very pleased that Mr Palmer listened to many of the concerns that affect small businesses at the moment.

“There are many unknowns surrounding Brexit and locally our members have to contend with worry about how they are going to find the people and the resources they need to fulfil customer demand in these uncertain times.”

Mr Palmer said: “It was great to meet FSB members from the combined authority area.

“We had a great discussion in which they were frank about some of the problems they face. I am looking forward to keeping up the dialogue with small businesses and their representatives in the coming weeks.”