East Midlands mayor approves £470m transport investment package

More than £470 million will be invested in transport projects across the East Midlands under plans approved by the region’s combined authority. The funding package, backed by the board of the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), aims to improve public transport, repair roads and expand walking and cycling routes across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

image: EMCCA - Mayor Claire Ward

The programme has been described by regional leaders as a long-term investment designed to modernise the area’s transport network, strengthen connections between communities and support economic growth.

Under the plans, a significant share of the funding will be directed toward maintaining local roads. At least £120.9 million has been allocated for highway repairs and maintenance each year for the next three years, representing a substantial increase in investment compared with 2024–25 levels.

The wider package also includes measures aimed at improving public transport services and creating safer routes for walking and cycling, with the goal of making travel easier and more sustainable for residents.

Claire Ward, mayor of the East Midlands, said the funding would allow the region to make long-term improvements to infrastructure and transport services.

She said the investment would support upgrades to roads and public transport while creating safer and greener travel options for communities across the region.

The transport programme forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen connectivity and improve access to jobs and services in the East Midlands. Regional leaders say the investment is intended to support economic development while helping residents make everyday journeys more easily.

The decision to approve the funding was taken at a recent meeting of the EMCCA board, which oversees devolved powers and funding for transport, housing and economic development across the region.