A new study is getting underway into the feasibility of a high quality bespoke electric Rapid Transit (eRT) service in Derby.

The £11.5 million scheme aims to “inspire future change across the transport network and revolutionise the vision for public transport in Derby”, running through the city centre.  

The proposed route will link key intra-city destinations and public areas, with Amey Consulting commissioned to identify the most suitable route.

The scheme, forms part of the successful joint submission between Derby City Council and Nottingham City Council to the Department for Transport’s Transforming Cities Fund, which is designed to improve connections between major employment sites and promote active travel and public transport. 

Derby City Council have set out their ambition to transform transport across the city, and radically improve the connections between where people live and work. 

Councillor Matthew Holmes, Deputy Leader, and Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Planning and Transportation said, “The economic benefits will be huge for our city, as this level of investment offers the chance to implement some really exciting changes, bringing mass transit to the city, and creative public transport innovations and transport experiences. The eRT will radically improve the connections between where people live, work and study, and provide better access to employment and training, whilst delivering significant reductions in emissions and contribute to the city’s recovery strategy to reboot Derby’s economy after the Covid-19 crisis.” 

Speaking on the announcement, Alex Gilbert, Managing Director, Amey Consulting added, “We are delighted to work with Derby City Council on the feasibility of the Electric Rapid Transit (eRT) service. The proposed scheme will not just deliver a cleaner and more efficient transport service, it will also support economic growth across the city and give the people of Derby a transport system to be proud of.”