Espresso Briefing — Issue 23

ChatGPT said:

“More homes, same roads — can our villages cope?”

It doesn’t matter which corner of Peterborough you’re in right now — ask three people about new housing developments and you’ll get five opinions.

The latest proposal for another wave of new homes in several nearby villages has stirred up that familiar cocktail of excitement, frustration and cautious optimism.

Because here’s the thing: most people agree that we do need more homes.

Families can’t find the space they need, grown-up kids can’t afford to move out locally, and plenty of would-be buyers are stuck renting because there just isn’t enough stock.

So on paper, more homes should be a win, right?

The catch and it’s the same catch we’ve seen for years is that the development plans rarely arrive hand-in-hand with equally ambitious upgrades to the things that keep villages running comfortabl.

 Schools, GP appointments, public transport, safe pavements, parking, and roads that don’t already feel like a mini version of the A47 at 8.45am.

That’s the tension being felt in places like Glinton, Castor, Barnack, Wansford, Eye and beyond. Residents aren’t saying “no growth ever.”

 What they are saying is: don’t grow the population faster than the infrastructure can handle it.

Several parish councillors have pointed out that even something as simple as adding one extra class to a primary school can ripple across bus routes, teaching staff, special education resources and lunch capacity.

Meanwhile, GP surgeries are already operating with waiting lists long enough to make you rethink whether that shoulder pain might “probably sort itself out” after all.

But there’s another side too  the hopeful one. More homes can mean more footfall for village shops, a boost to pubs and cafés, extra life in the community, more kids in local clubs and sports teams, and improved connectivity if investment is done properly.

Growth doesn’t have to dilute a village it can enrich it.

The big question this time around isn’t whether housing is needed… it’s whether this development cycle will finally come with the infrastructure to match.

 And let’s be honest that’s what everyone will be watching for over the coming months.

For now, villagers are doing what they do best: making their voices heard. Public meetings are busy, comment threads are lively (to put it politely), and parish notices are getting more attention than a new Netflix release.

Whatever happens next, one thing’s clear: Peterborough’s villages are growing and everyone wants to make sure they grow the right way.

“Is the village lifestyle calling more Peterborough families?”

You don’t have to scroll far through local Facebook groups to notice a recurring theme: people dreaming of more space, bigger gardens, quieter weekends and that old-fashioned sense of community you think only exists in 90s TV dramas.

Lately, more Peterborough families seem to be asking the same question:

 “Should we swap city convenience for village calm?”

For some, it’s the school run.

 For others, it’s dogs who need fields instead of pavements.

For a surprising number, it’s simply wanting neighbours who say hello rather than stare at the ground like they’ve forgotten how eye contact works.

But the dream comes with a reality check: village life can mean longer commutes, fewer buses, and the kind of broadband that makes you want to throw your laptop out of the window on Teams calls.

Property prices even rentals are competitive. 

A lovely 4-bed with a driveway and a garden doesn’t tend to sit empty for long.

Still, many families say the lifestyle trade-off is worth it. More green space, more safety for kids, community events, a slower pace and a sense of “belonging” that can be hard to find in fast-growing areas of the city.

👉 If you’ve moved from Peterborough to a nearby village (or are thinking about it), hit reply and tell us what tipped the scales for you — we’d love to feature a range of real local experiences next week.

👉We’re also putting together a list of trusted local services that make moving easier from mortgage specialists to moving companies and decorators.

If you’re a business who’d like to be included, just reply with“info please” and we’ll send details.

Village life isn’t for everyone but for many, it’s becoming an increasingly tempting next chapter.

“Rural charging reality: are electric cars practical outside the city?”

Electric cars are brilliant… right up until you’re staring at your dashboard thinking,

“That can’t be right it said 43 miles two minutes ago.”

And while charging points across Peterborough are improving, the picture gets patchier the further you get from the city centre.

For residents in places like Newborough, Barnack, Wittering, Thorney and Ailsworth, daily driving can feel like a strategic game of “Where’s the next charger — and will it actually work?”

Even some commuters heading in from Bretton and Hampton say they plan their week not around school runs or gym sessions — but around charging slots.

It’s not that villagers don’t want to switch to electric. Many do. The issue is reliability and availability:

• too few charging points

• too many already occupied

• inconsistent pricing

• and (everyone’s favourite) chargers that simply refuse to cooperate.

Petrol drivers don’t realise how lucky they are there’s no version of “Sorry, the pump is out of service; try again next week.”

That said, there are positives too.

Local charging locations are steadily increasing, more rapid chargers are coming online, and PHEVs (plug-in hybrids) seem to be an increasingly popular compromise for families who want to reduce fuel usage without adding stress to the school run.

 If you live in a village, do you drive full electric, hybrid, or petrol/diesel… and why?

Hit reply  we’d love to feature a range of real-life experiences next week.

 We’re considering a new “Local Electric Driving Guide” with recommendations for garages, installers, EV-friendly estate agents, and charging solutions.

 If you’re a business who’d like to be featured, reply “listing” for more details.

Electric motoring isn’t impossible in rural Peterborough it just needs the infrastructure to catch up.

Beautiful… until they take over: the trees experts say to think twice about”

You know how some plants look gorgeous in the garden centre  but then behave like they’re trying to take legal ownership of your property?

Certain trees in the UK fall firmly into that category.

According to recent guidance from home and garden specialists, the top culprits homeowners in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough should be wary of include:

• Willow — thirsty roots that love finding drains and pipes

• Poplar — fast-growing but notorious for damaging foundations

• Sycamore — spreads quickly and shades out everything else

• Leylandii — the infamous neighbour-war starter

None of these are “bad” trees they’re just not ideal in small suburban or village gardens.

Planting them too close to the house can lead to subsidence issues, cracked patios, boundary disputes, and expensive drainage repairs.

What’s interesting is how many residents say they inherited the problem rather than planted it meaning even “dream homes” can come with secret horticultural baggage.

Have you ever had a garden plant turn into a monster?

Reply and tell us bonus points if you have a photo!

 We’re researching trusted local tree surgeons, landscapers and garden designers to include in a “Garden Help List” later this spring.

If that’s relevant to your business, reply “spring list” and we’ll send details.

A little careful planning now can save thousands later and keep the garden peaceful instead of chaotic.

“New walk, new sniff: the countryside routes locals are loving right now”

If you’ve noticed more happy dogs and muddier boots around Peterborough lately, you’re not alone.

With the weather finally behaving (sort of), dog-owners are venturing beyond their usual loops and trying out new countryside routes — especially around Castor Hanglands, Ferry Meadows, Sutton Heath, and the Nene Valley trails.

The appeal is obvious: longer paths, more wildlife, fewer bikes zooming past at 300mph, and the magical combination of field + stick + sunshine = pure dog joy.

But regular walkers are sharing a couple of friendly reminders worth passing on:

• Keep an eye out for livestock — even usually calm fields can have seasonal grazing

• Blue-green algae can still pop up in slow-moving water after warm spells

• Check paws after woodland routes burrs and thorns are sneaky.

A few readers also mentioned feeling more comfortable walking new routes in pairs or small groups not because the countryside is unsafe, but because it’s nicer when you can chat, swap dog stories, and pretend you’re both getting steps on purpose rather than because your dog refused to turn around.

 Do you have a favourite “hidden gem” walking route?

Reply and tell us we’ll share the most-loved spots in a future issue.

We’re planning a “Local Dog Lovers Directory” featuring groomers, trainers, walkers, vets and pet-friendly cafés. If you run a dog-related business and want to be included, reply “dog list” for details.

“The heating trick doing the rounds — smart saver or myth?”

There’s a tip circulating on social media and lifestyle sites this week claiming that keeping your heating on low all day is cheaper than turning it on and off when you need it.

Cue thousands of Peterborough households wondering whether they’ve been doing winter wrong for the last decade.

So — is there truth to it?

Experts say it depends on the home.

Older houses that lose heat quickly might see a small benefit from low-and-steady heating.

But modern, well-insulated homes (especially new builds) are usually cheaper to run on a schedule, heating only when needed.

The golden rule most energy advisers agree on is simple:

👉 If your house holds heat well → on/off is usually more efficient

👉 If your house leaks heat like a colander → steady low heat can work out cheaper

And regardless of the house type, draft-proofing one afternoon can save more than any hack.

Have you tested both methods?

Reply and tell us what worked we love real-life results more than theories.

Subtle sponsor appeal: We’re gathering trusted local heating engineers, insulation services and boiler care providers for a spring home-prep guide.

Businesses can reply “home guide” to get info.

“The Budget headlines — and what matters most locally”

The Chancellor took the spotlight today and while the national headlines are full of big numbers, tax talk and political sparring, people here in Peterborough are mostly asking much simpler questions:

“Will this make day-to-day life easier… or tighter?”

It’s too early for every detail to filter through, but a few points already have local families and businesses leaning in:

• Tax & allowance changes — anything that puts more take-home pay in the pocket gets attention fast, especially with food and fuel still feeling pricey

• Housing measures — support for buyers, planning incentives and rental reforms could all influence the local property market

• Energy & cost-of-living support — especially for households juggling heating bills and mortgage rates

• Small business relief — cafés, trades and independents will be hoping for anything that softens rising costs

No single measure will transform things overnight, but there’s a definite sense of quiet hope that this Budget might take some pressure off the average Peterborough household.

What people here want more than anything is breathing room  not just for their wallets, but for their plans: moving home, starting a business, fixing the car, booking a holiday without flinching at the bill.

Which Budget headline matters most to you personally tax, housing, energy, business help, or something else entirely?

Hit reply and tell us we’ll include a round-up of local opinions next week.

 We’re putting together a “Budget Breakdown for Real People” with help from trusted local mortgage specialists, financial planners, accountants and trades.

 If your business should be included, reply “Budget guide” for details.

Career curveballs: more locals are retraining in their 30s, 40s and 50s

There was a time when careers followed a straight line: school → job → maybe a promotion or two → retire.

That model seems to be fading fast — especially in Peterborough.

Local colleges, training providers and online learning platforms all say they’re seeing a surge in people retraining for completely new careers later in life.

 Not to “start again,” but to start something that feels more meaningful, flexible, creative or better paid.

And it’s not just one type of change.

Some are leaving office jobs for trades.

Some are leaving trades for counselling or coaching.

Others are turning hobbies into small businesses dog grooming, baking, gardening, photography, fitness, childcare, craft, you name it.

The driving reasons sound familiar:

• burnout

• childcare flexibility

• wanting to work locally rather than commute

• craving stability instead of corporate “reshuffles”

• wanting to like life Monday to Friday, not just weekends

These aren’t mid-life crises they’re mid-life upgrades.

And encouragingly, many locals who’ve retrained report feeling more confident, more valued, and more in control of their future.

 Have you retrained or launched a brand new career later in life?

Hit reply and tell us we’d love to share a roundup of real stories next week.

 We’re exploring a “Local Learning & Skills Directory” featuring adult courses, career coaches, apprenticeships, business start-up support and accredited training providers.

 If that’s relevant to your business, reply “skills listing” for details.

Are big-name restaurants helping or hurting Peterborough’s food scene?

Peterborough is seeing a wave of shiny new restaurant arrivals  and on the surface, that’s brilliant.

 More choice, more buzz, more reasons to stay local instead of heading to Cambridge or Stamford for a nice meal out.

But a growing number of food lovers are asking a fair question:

Are big brands boosting the scene… or making it harder for small independents to survive?

Chains bring comfort familiar menus, reliable pricing, decent kids’ options, big marketing budgets and sometimes even perks like loyalty apps.

But independents bring something different: personality.

The kind of places where the staff remember your favourite wine, you try something you’ve never heard of, and you leave feeling like you’ve supported a neighbour rather than a corporation.

Some residents worry that if the balance tips too far, Peterborough could end up with a food scene that’s polished but bland.

Others say the two can coexist beautifully, as long as independents aren’t priced out of central locations and residents make a conscious effort to

mix it up: date nights at the new places, Sunday brunch at the little places.

And this matters more than just foodie aesthetics independent hospitality keeps money circulating locally, supports local suppliers, and creates that warm, community feel that visitors instantly pick up on.

 What’s your go-to spot right now chain or indie?

Reply with your recommendation and we’ll feature a list of local favourites next week.

 We’re creating a “Local Eats Guide” highlighting restaurants, cafés, pubs, bakeries and food suppliers that serve the area.

If you run a food-related business and want details, reply “food guide”.

WFH or back to the office — where are Peterborough workers actually heading?

If you believed Twitter, everyone is either living their best life in pyjamas forever or miserably commuting five days a week.

Reality in Peterborough?

Somewhere in the middle and usually based on vibes, childcare and whether the dog ate the mouse again.

Take Sarah in Bretton  she says she loves working from home until the Amazon driver rings the bell mid-Zoom and her Border Collie loses the plot.

Meanwhile Iman from Dogsthorpe swears by his “office escape days,” claiming he gets more done at Orton Starbucks than he ever has in an open-plan corporate floor.

And then there’s the unofficial new trend: “coffee-office day” laptop, oat latte, noise-cancelling headphones, and the smug look of someone pretending to be highly productive while quietly people-watching.

Ask anyone at Bewiched between 10am–3pm and they’ll confirm.

What people keep saying isn’t “I must work from home” or “I must go back.”

It’s “I just want a life that works.”

Less commuting. Less guilt. More flexibility. More time with kids / partners / pets / hobbies / sanity.

Where do you get your best work done kitchen table, office, coffee shop, car outside Tesco during football practice?

Hit reply we’ll feature a few next week (first names + location)

We’re creating a “Work Local Lifestyle Guide” the best laptop-friendly cafés, co-working spots, trades who set up home offices, and more.

 Businesses can reply “work guide” for info.

The money-saving tricks Peterborough families actually use (and don’t roll their eyes at)

If there’s one thing locals agree on, it’s that half of the “money-saving advice” online feels like it was written by someone who’s never paid a bill in their life.

So we asked around to find out what real people in Peterborough actually do to keep life affordable  without eating beans on toast seven nights a week.

Some favourites:

• Batch-cooking heroism — Katie from Gunthorpe swears she saves £60 a month by cooking a big chilli on Sundays and freezing it… though her kids now call it “Monday Chilli,” “Wednesday Chilli” and “Chilli Lasagne.”

• The supermarket loop — Mark in Hempstead does Aldi for basics, M&S for yellow stickers, and Asda for anything the kids randomly announce for school the next morning.

• The “lights off” game — Tina from Walton gives her kids 20p every time they catch Dad leaving lights on. He hates it. The kids love it. The electric bill has never looked healthier.

• The subscription purge — a couple in Orton Brimbles cancel one subscription every payday  sometimes gym, sometimes Disney+, sometimes something they forgot they ever signed up for.

What’s clear is that people here aren’t trying to live miserably  they’re trying to live smart.

Save money where it doesn’t hurt, so you can still have fun where it does matter meals out, holidays, clubs for the kids, a treat at the weekend.

Got a money hack that actually works?

Hit reply we’ll feature the best next week (first names + area only).

 We’re putting together a local “Saving Smarter, Living Better” guide  featuring businesses that help families stretch budgets without cutting joy.

If that might include you, reply “smart saver info”.

The Great Delivery Dance — why parcels seem to know when you’ve left the house

There’s a universal moment in Peterborough life now: you pop out for exactly nine minutes to grab milk… and boom — your parcel arrives, is lovingly handed to a neighbour you barely know, and you now owe them a socially awkward doorstep conversation you were not prepared for.

It’s becoming a weekly sport.

Meanwhile, others are ditching the online chaos altogether and heading back to local shops because (quote from Jay in Fletton):

“At least the jumper actually fits and I don’t have to wrestle a returns label like it’s origami GCSE coursework.”

People really seem split right now:

• The online loyalists — who love the choice, the late-night browsing, and the thrill of next-day delivery
• The local shoppers — who love trying things on, knowing shop owners by name, and not having living rooms full of return bags

And then there’s a third group: the hybrid hunters — they browse online, check reviews, then buy local so they can take it home immediately and avoid both cardboard mountains and “Sorry we missed you” cards.

The funniest bit?
It isn’t about shopping at all — it’s about emotion. People want joy, convenience, human connection, and fewer chores. Whichever option gives them that gets their vote.

👉 Engagement nudge: Are you Team Online, Team Local… or Team “Whoever has it cheapest today”? Reply and tell us — plus bonus points if you’ve ever had to do the shame-walk to collect a parcel wearing pyjamas and sliders.

👉 Subtle sponsor nudge: We’re building a “Shop Local Directory” spotlighting independent stores, boutiques, makers and services across Peterborough. If that’s you, reply “shop directory” for info.

“Is Peterborough becoming a ‘soft night out’ city?”

Remember when a night out meant getting home at 2am, kebab in hand, shoes in the other, and promising never to drink tequila again?

Now the trend sweeping Peterborough sounds more like this:

“Shall we get a table at 6, be home by 10, and still have Sunday energy?”

 

It turns out loads of locals are choosing “soft nights out” not quite staying in, not quite clubbing, just nice.

Think: dinner somewhere relaxed, a drink at a pub where you can hear each other talk, and maybe a dessert because you’re adults and no one can stop you.

Karen from Werrington says it perfectly:

“I just want to have fun without needing a recovery period and electrolytes the next day.”

 

Tom and Maya from Hampton say it’s helped them actually see their friends again not just message them saying “let’s catch up soon” until everyone forgets.

And popular “soft night out” spots keep coming up in conversation:
cozy pubs with fireplaces, live acoustic nights, wine bars, cocktail places, independent restaurants with warm lighting and good chairs (because yes — chairs matter).

No one’s judging clubbing, by the way if you’ve still got that energy, live your truth.

But for lots of people, a night that ends with a taxi at 9:55pm is starting to feel like peak adulthood.

 Where’s the perfect “soft night out” spot locally — somewhere relaxing but still fun?

Reply and we’ll feature reader picks.

We’re planning a “Nights Out — The Local Edition” guide featuring pubs, bars, restaurants, music venues and evening experiences.

If you want details, reply “night guide”.

The Big Cosy-Up — Peterborough homes are getting comfier, not fancier

There’s a home trend sweeping Peterborough and it has absolutely nothing to do with Pinterest-perfect interiors.

Forget spotless minimalist showhomes the vibe right now is cosy, soft, lived-in, and unapologetically comfy.

It’s no longer about impressing guests it’s about loving being home.

Leanne in Cardea says she’s ditched the beige showroom cushions and gone full “fluffy blanket mountain”  no regrets.

Jude from Stanground swears her happiest purchase this year wasn’t décor…

 it was a ridiculously oversized hoodie blanket “that makes every evening feel like a hug.”

And according to a cheerful bloke at a popular home store in Brotherhood, chunky candles are “selling like it’s a nationwide emergency.”

The trend makes sense if you think about it: people are tired, work is demanding, weather is moody, and everyone’s juggling something.

Home has become a sanctuary again not a photo opportunity.

The cosy-home movement is about:

• being comfortable, not curated

• warmth over wow factor

• lighting you feel, not lighting you photograph

• furniture you can actually nap on (yes, we said it)

And when friends come round now, the reaction isn’t “Wow your décor is stunning” it’s “OMG your sofa is incredible, I’m not getting up.”

 What’s the cosiest thing in your house right now?

Reply and tell us cats, weighted blankets and air fryers all count.

Would you like to feature in the future our “Cosy Home Edit — Peterborough Edition” featuring furniture stores, homeware shops, lighting specialists, soft furnishing businesses and decorators.

 Want details? Reply “cosy edit”.

🅿️ Car park roulette: where do you dare park on a Saturday?

Some say adrenaline sports include skydiving, bungee jumping, or mountain biking.

Locals in Peterborough say: try parking in the city centre at 11:42am on a Saturday.

Ask around and you’ll hear strong opinions:

“Queensgate or bust.”

That’s Steve from Orton  who claims he once found a space on Level 3 without circling. No one believes him, but we respect the confidence.

“Riverside all the way — it’s civilised.”

That’s Anita from Netherton, who likes a calm stroll into town, ideally holding a Costa and her dignity.

“I refuse to pay £347 for 40 minutes.”

That’s an anonymous resident in Dogsthorpe, who may or may not have exaggerated for effect.

And then there’s the rogue choice: Sainsbury’s Bretton, park, bus, or Uber in the long-game strategists of the city.

But let’s be honest car parking here isn’t really about logistics.
It’s about:

• avoiding the terror of tiny spaces designed for 1990s hatchbacks

• praying the ticket machine works this time

• not getting trapped behind someone who takes 14 attempts to reverse

• that sweet, sweet moment of spotting brake lights flashing = someone leaving 

Bonus chaos if the kids are in the back and the only available spot is 0.3 centimetres wider than the car.

 Where’s your go-to parking spot, and which one do you avoid like the plague?

Reply and we’ll compile the “Unofficial Parking League Table.”

We’ll also include car valets, tyre specialists and friendly garages in a mini “Drive Local” guide reply “drive local” for details.

Peterborough’s new fitness trend: exercise… but make it fun, not formal

There are two types of people in January and February:

those who join a gym and those who loudly declare, “Absolutely not.”
But there’s a mysterious third group in Peterborough right now people who are getting fitter completely by accident.

It goes like this:

• Dog walkers doubling their distance because “the dog looked like he needed it” (sure he did).

• Parents doing 14,000 steps at sports halls every weekend because of tournaments, dance comps and swimming galas.

• People “discovering” hiking and pretending it’s not exercise because there’s a pub at the halfway point.

• Cycling clubs disguised as social clubs — it’s all about the coffee stop, not the miles, apparently.

Rachel from Longthorpe says she’s lost half a stone purely from chasing her teenager around for GCSE revision sessions (“cardio and despair in one package”).

Callum in Paston swears his fitness watch underestimates calories burned while assembling flat-pack furniture — and honestly, he might be right.

The point is: exercise is shifting.

It’s no longer about forcing yourself to do something miserable it’s about sneaking fitness into a life you already enjoy.

More fun, less pressure.

More living, less slogging.

And judging by how many Peterborough locals are suddenly comparing step counts, it’s working.

What’s your version of “accidental fitness”?

Reply and tell us funniest answers get featured next issue.

 We’re creating a “Live Well Local” guide listing PTs, fitness clubs, dance schools, sports centres, yoga studios and healthy cafés. Businesses can reply “live well” for info.

Winter Mini Resets (aka: sanity savers)

There’s something that happens in the run-up to Christmas that no one admits out loud.

It’s not spring cleaning.

It’s not new year, new me.

It’s more like “let’s make the house feel less chaotic before December eats us alive.”

Peterborough is currently deep in the season of “winter mini resets”  tiny wins that make home life feel calmer without needing a full clearing-out montage.

Some favourites people have been talking about:

• Switching to the “winter bedding” and instantly feeling like life is 40% better

• Buying a new doormat because the old one has suffered enough

• Declaring that one drawer will be sorted today and the rest can wait for January

• Replacing three mismatched glasses and somehow feeling emotionally healed

• Getting a tiny bit too excited about storage baskets

Emma from Fletton says she labelled three kitchen shelves and “felt like I had my entire life under control.”

Lewis in Hampton Vale swears by the trick where you buy one nice candle and pretend everything is together, even if it isn’t.

The beauty of winter mini resets?

They take five minutes, cost very little, and make the house feel calmer during the busiest month of the year.

What’s your recent winter reset win?

Fresh bedding?

Boxing up toys? 

Sorting the “man drawer”?

New towels?

Reply and tell us — we’ll feature the best next issue.

After-school clubs: the unofficial Olympic sport of Peterborough parenting

Somewhere between 3pm and 7pm, parents across Peterborough enter a parallel universe where time bends, traffic multiplies and dinner becomes whatever can be eaten standing up.

Dance rehearsals in Hampton.

Football practice in Werrington.

Scouts in Longthorpe.

Swimming lessons in Bretton.

Gymnastics in Stanground.

And that one club no one can ever remember until 14 minutes before it starts.

Priya from Paston says her car has basically become “a mobile changing room with crumbs.”

Martin in Orton Southgate keeps a bag in the boot with snacks, wipes, chargers and… spare socks (veteran move).

And Lisa from Gunthorpe described weeknights as “a CrossFit circuit disguised as parenting.”

But here’s the thing even in the chaos, there’s joy.

Watching kids grow in confidence. New friendships. Tiny wins. Beaming faces after finally nailing a dance move / goal / badge / tumble.

You can’t bottle that.

The hard bit isn’t motivation it’s logistics.

Which clubs are your kids loving right now? Reply and tell us your recommendations help other parents massively.

Peterborough food scene update: what’s opening next and why everyone has opinions already

Peterborough residents love nothing more than a new place to eat especially when the rumour mill kicks off before the signs are even up.

The latest one everyone’s talking about is the new restaurant set for Hampton (near the Serpentine Green stretch) early whispers suggest a proper family-style Italian with big pizza portions and a dessert menu that will ruin diets within a six-mile radius.

No one knows the exact opening date yet but that hasn’t stopped Facebook declaring it ‘next month’ three times already.

Meanwhile, the Cathedral Square unit that’s been dark for months finally looks alive again. Lights on. Builders in. Speculation levels: dangerous.

Jasmine from West Town swears she saw a delivery of cocktail glasses.

Alex from Ravensthorpe insists it’s “definitely a steak place.”
Someone else commented “I heard it’s a sushi bar” so we’re all still in the dark, essentially.

And in Werrington, a cosy new brunch café is quietly taking shape, and locals are already predicting queues on opening weekend because if Peterborough knows anything, it’s:

• coffee

• pancakes

• taking photos of both

There’s a real buzz right now not because people are desperate for “more restaurants,” but because new openings make the city feel alive, growing, fun.

What’s the one food place you think Peterborough is missing Greek?

 Korean BBQ?

Vegan comfort food?

Rooftop cocktails?

Reply and tell us we’ll share the most-requested ideas next issue.

 We’re putting together for next year the “Local Eats — Spring 2025 Edition”, spotlighting restaurants, brunch spots, cafés, pubs, bakeries and takeaways across Peterborough.

If you run a food business and want to be included when it goes live, reply “Local Eats info”.

What’s really changing in Peterborough — the developments to watch, for real

If you’re wondering whether all the talk about growth, new homes and regeneration means anything here are a few developments in and around Peterborough that are actually underway, not just whispered about.

🏠 Big new housing on the edge

In June 2025, planning permission was approved for an 870-home development on land east of Newborough Road, Paston (the “Leeds Farm” site), part of the so-called Norwood Urban Extension.

That’s a significant chunk of new housing stock — with a new local centre, playing fields and (eventually) supporting infrastructure proposed as part of the master plan.

Business & employment: Greyhound stadium redevelopment

The site of the former Peterborough Greyhound Stadium in Fengate  closed and demolished  has new proposals:

 A business/employment hub with up to 17 commercial units (in varying sizes) is being put forward by the owners.

If given final approval, this could bring workspaces, services, and new businesses a real boost for local jobs and the city economy. 

Very recently (November 2025), the council confirmed that plans for a brand new leisure centre and swimming pool eight-lane, 25-metre have got a major lift after a £20 million government funding pledge confirmed by Rachel Reeve's in her budget speech.

The project is now in the design phase, with a planning application expected next. If everything lines up, this could be a big win for families, swimmers and community health in the coming years.

The long view: a new Local Plan shaping growth to 2044

Alongside individual developments, the city is working on a new Peterborough Local Plan to guide growth and regeneration up to 2044.

 As of November 2025, the draft plan has progressed with a public consultation behind it and a “pre-submission” version slated for mid-2026. 

That means many of the developments you see approved or proposed now are part of a broader, long-range framework aiming to shape how Peterborough expands for decades. 

✅ What this means for residents (and you)

• More homes = potential for housing demand to ease (maybe), but also greater pressure on infrastructure — roads, schools, GPs.

•  

• New business units = job opportunities, maybe shorter commutes, more variety for local services and shops.

•  

• New leisure facilities (pool etc.) = investment in community wellbeing — good for families, seniors, youth, everyone.

•  

• The Local Plan process = a roadmap for growth — but also a reminder to stay engaged (consultations, public feedback, local voice matters).

•  

Which of these changes would make the biggest difference for you — more homes, new jobs, a new pool, or long-range planning for the city? Hit reply and tell us we’ll include your views in the next issue.

Peterborough’s 2026 events lineup already has people claiming dates

We’re only a couple of months into the year and Peterborough residents already have diaries out, WhatsApp groups buzzing and debates over who’s driving because the 2026 events calendar is looking seriously good.

The Katharine of Aragon Festival  (Jan 24 – Feb 1) kicked things off with a dose of history, heritage and big coats.

But it’s the spring and summer lineup that’s got people in “we’re definitely going to that… right?” mode:

• The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight — April 21

•  

• The Peterborough Dragon Boat Festival — June 20

•  

• Cambridgeshire Vegan Summer Festival — June 20 (same day, so choices will be made)

•  

• Peterborough Running Festival — June 28

•  

• Gin & Rum Festival — summer weekend TBC

•  

• Peterborough Pride — July 18

•  

• Peterborough Wool & Yarn Show — March 14–15

•  

Maria in Orton says she’s already stress-booking babysitters for the Gin & Rum Festival.

Connor in Bretton claims he’s training for the Running Festival “mainly for the finish-line snacks.”

 Which of these events are you planning to do — and which never in a million years?

Hit reply and tell us we’ll do the “Spotlight Reader Event Picks” next issue.

The Peterborough Rumour Mill is in full swing — but nobody actually knows anything

Some cities have tabloids.

Peterborough has Facebook groups and people who swear their uncle’s friend definitely knows something.

The current rumour mill greatest hits:

• “There’s a new supermarket coming… somewhere” nobody knows where, but apparently everyone’s neighbour works in planning and has seen the paperwork.

• “Something big is happening at Serpentine Green” no one can agree whether it’s an expansion, a refurb, a restaurant or a UFO landing pad.

• “Another hotel is coming to the city centre” someone’s cousin allegedly heard this in the queue at the Post Office.

• “A famous bakery chain might be opening… unless it’s not” — very helpful.

The funniest part?

People love the rumour stage more than the confirmation stage.

It’s the guessing. The debating. The “I’ll put £5 on it ...

And honestly it’s half the fun of living somewhere that’s constantly changing.

What rumour have you heard lately serious or silly?

Reply and tell us.

Christmas lights are on, and suddenly the whole city wants to be out again

Every year without fail, there’s a moment in Peterborough when the Christmas lights switch on and suddenly half the city remembers how much they actually like going out in the evenings.

Doesn’t matter if it’s cold.

Doesn’t matter if we all swore last week that we were “hibernating until January.”

Once those lights are on — we’re outside.

You can see it happening across the city:

• Couples walking through Cathedral Square with takeaway hot chocolates

• Families doing “let’s just have a quick look at the shops” (it is never quick)

• Teens taking selfies by the tree and pretending they’re in a Netflix Christmas movie

• Dads calculating parking prices in their head like advanced maths.

Danielle from Stanground says Christmas lights are “the only thing that can get my teenagers into town without bribery.”

Aiden in Bretton claims he’s only there for the German sausage stall  but we all know he loves the vibes.

It’s cold. It’s chaotic. It’s festive. It’s perfect.

 What’s your Peterborough winter ritual — late-night shopping, Cathedral Square lights, ice skating, Hotpod at Nene Park, or avoiding it all and ordering pizza?

Reply and share — best ones featured next issue.

Sally’s Saver — The 3-Receipt Rule” (and why it actually works)

You know that moment where you look at your bank account and think,
“I swear I didn’t spend that much… how did this happen?”

This month’s Sally’s Saver is one of those tiny habits that hurts no joy, kills no fun, and saves real money without feeling like punishment.

The “3-Receipt Rule”

Instead of tracking every penny (nobody has time) just keep the next three receipts you get.

Any three. Doesn’t matter what for.

At the end of the week, look at them and ask two magic questions:

1️⃣ Would I buy this again tomorrow?

2️⃣ If not, what would I do differently next time?

That’s it.

No budgeting spreadsheets.

No guilt. No colour-coded binders.

Why it works:

• It reminds you how much “little things” add up

•  

• It makes spending conscious not restrictive

•  

• You cut the things that don’t spark joy — not the ones that do

•  

A real Peterborough example:

One reader said she kept three receipts last month 

→ Starbucks, random supermarket snacks, and an impulse online dress.

Result?

She didn’t cut the dress (she loved it), but swapped the snacks for a packed lunch and switched the coffee to Bewiched once a week with a friend instead of three solo trips.

Saved £42. Still lived her life. Still felt fabulous.

And that’s the essence of Sally’s Saver:

the goal isn’t to spend less — it’s to spend on what actually makes you happy.

If you have a money trick that works without killing joy, reply and share it . It might feature in the next Sally’s Savers.

Finally ... Same time next week?

That’s Issue 23 wrapped — and what a week it’s been.

From housebuilding debates to rumour-mill chaos, restaurant buzz, cosy-home season, winter events stacking up and the city getting twinklier by the day Peterborough is busy, chatty and very much alive right now.

And that’s the joy of living here, isn’t it?

We can talk seriously about the future of the city at 9am, battle Christmas parking at 11, warm up in a café at 2, and argue about where to get dinner at 6.

Big picture and everyday life all in the same postcode.

As always thank you for being part of Spotlight.
You make this newsletter what it is.

Every reply, every recommendation, every “cover this next week” message that’s what shapes what we publish.

If something great is happening in your corner of Peterborough a new business, a festive event, charity drive, milestone, funny moment or hidden-gem café hit reply and tell us.

We’re here for the big stuff, the small stuff and the “someone told me in the pub” stuff.

Have a brilliant week and if you’re out enjoying the Christmas lights, grab an extra hot chocolate for us.

See you next time