Making Peterborough a city of opportunity is my goal : Leader Farooq

Mohammed Farooq has elected as the leader of Peterborough City Council since November 2023. Previously, he was a successful restaurateur. Mr. Farooqh is considered a dynamic leader from a non-native community in Peterborough. He is currently as an independent politician and leading the city.

‘Nepali News Uk’ Editor Nirvik Rayamajhee spoke with Farooq about his journey to success and his new plans in the city council. Here is an excerpt from the interview :

Peterborough’s population is formed by various communities. How do you view this diverse situation and what is your plan to address it?

In fact, we want Peterborough to be a city of opportunity for everyone. Despite of colour, creed or nationality, we provide equal opportunity to everybody.

Perhaps my background is Asian, which forms less than 12 percent of the city’s population. For me to become the leader of the city is a proud moment for all of us. Pride moment for all ethnic and minorities groups. I always say, as others can do better for the city, we can also do equally.

What Change do you try to establish at city council during your tenure?

My key priorities are; I want to protect vulnerable. I want to provide support for needed child or adults or any other. Equally, I am making a station (train and bus) a better place for all visitors. Reform the city center and the city’s hospitality in general are my priorities.

Is there any Mega-Project in that planning?

The big project is station Quarter. Where we are spending nearly hundred million pound (with government support) on it. At the moment, we have one entrance at the train station. Now it will be two on both sides. We will integrate train station closer to the city center. 

Similary, we are expanding the university in Peterborough. We hope it will provide more opportunities for young people through skilled and quality education.

You are Familiar with the Peterborough-based Nepali community that lives here permanently. In what way do you view this community?

I love Nepali Communinity. I have worked with them. When I became a leader, people from Nepali community came here with a proposal to build a community hall at westhood (stafford community hall). The agreement is done. In the coming days, hall building will be completed. I am very delighted that, after building this hall, they will have their own place to celebrate. A place to celebrate their festivals, birthdays, and other cultural programs too.

Moreover, I find Nepali community very hard working, and business minded. Nowadys, They are concentrating on their children’s education. This focus is good for Peterborough, because when they are grown up, they will contribute significantly to the GDP of this city.

The council always encourages more business because we believe that more business will create more income for the council and create more job opportunities.

As a non-native British, you successfully operated a resturant business in Peterborough. What advice would you share with non-native individuals? 

The opportunity is there for you. You should have the ability to find those opportunities. Although you have to take risks in life, but take limited risks. 

Do business, individual job or anything, try to work hard and focus on delivering. Whatever role you take in society, always be nice to others and always try to contribute to the community in which you live.

Will the council help in the promotion of new and small businesses?

The council always encourages more business because we believe that more business will create more income for the council and create more job opportunities. We welcome new ideas and start-up businesses too.

Sometime people claim that Peterborough lacks security. It is not a good place to live. How do you presume this situation?

I think Peterborough is as safe as any other place in the UK. I walk in every single area of the city, and it is absolutely fine. People are very friendly. As a council, we will continue to work to improve residence and visitor security.

The environment and greenery are very important for better lives. What steps are you taking to improve the environment?

Peterborough has a very good climate. Our oxygen and breathing levels are considered low compared to other cities. However, we are working towards electric Buses.

Once we acheieve that goal individual will also start to buy electric cars. By not making unnecessary journeys by private vehicle, gradually our city will be better, and we try to make Peterough a Net-Zero city.

Last month, we planted a tiny forest on Gunthrope. Six hundred trees are planted there. We will duplicate this in other parts of the city. We will raise cleaning and sanitation programs.

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