East Midlands secures £298m investment to enhance public transport and active travel

A major package of transport funding worth £298 million has been approved by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), paving the way for significant improvements to public transport and active travel infrastructure across the region.

The investment will support a wide range of projects throughout Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. Planned upgrades include the introduction of additional electric buses, improvements to bus stations and waiting facilities, expanded walking and cycling networks, and enhanced real-time passenger information systems designed to make journeys easier and more reliable.

The funding forms part of the Mayor’s wider strategy to modernise the region’s transport network, improve connectivity and encourage more sustainable travel choices.

Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, said:

“I am committing a further £298m from my Mayoral Transport Fund to create the reliable, safe, and accessible transport network that our region needs. By improving key bus routes, upgrading bus stops and stations, and enhancing active travel networks, we’re helping communities to be better connected to jobs, training opportunities, and each other.

“Transport is a key part of everyone’s daily lives, and for too long, our communities and businesses have had to contend with a transport network that was holding them back. By working with our partners across the region, we are building a network that works well as one system and supports the East Midlands to thrive.”

Regional leaders believe the programme will strengthen links between communities, support economic growth and provide residents with greater access to employment, education and essential services. The investment is also expected to contribute to wider environmental objectives through increased use of low-emission public transport and improved opportunities for walking and cycling.

With projects set to be delivered across the East Midlands, the funding represents one of the most significant recent commitments to improving the region’s transport infrastructure and creating a more integrated travel network for residents and businesses alike.