The East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) is set to take its next step toward transforming how people travel across the region after the first meeting of its new Transport & Digital Connectivity Committee.
Described as a ‘milestone meeting’ the discussion focused on shaping a clear, ambitious vision for the Mayor’s Transport Plan and reimagining public transport services, the transport transition programme and setting out a bold pipeline of investment-ready projects that will make a real difference to daily life, from smoother roads and modern bus fleets to greener rail links and safer cycling routes. The Mayor’s Transport Plan is due to go out to public consultation later this year.
The Committee will also oversee plans for improvements to bus services as EMCCA takes over the day-to-day responsibility for bus planning. They will also steer the development of the transport investment programme for the region to begin allocating the £2 billion of transport funding the Government recently announced for EMCCA in the coming 6 years.
This historic investment, the largest the East Midlands has seen in a generation, marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in building a world-class transport network that connects communities, unlocks growth, and makes every day journeys healthier, greener, and more reliable.
The meeting welcomed Nottinghamshire County Council Leader, Councillor Mick Barton as Chair of the committee. He will be joined on the committee by a mix of new and returning members, united in driving forward a step change in how people move around the East Midlands.
Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, who is on the Committee, said
“This is an important step for the Transport Committee. Not only are we looking to set the transport strategy for the next 15 years, but with £2 billion secured, we can look beyond short-term fixes and start building a transport network worthy of the future we want, one that connects people to jobs, education and opportunity, and powers economic growth for the whole region.”
“It’s about making sure people can get where they need to go, more easily, more reliably, whether that’s by bus, train, bike or car. This is our chance to do things differently and raise our sights. We’re listening to communities, partners and businesses to make sure we invest where it counts.”
In the months ahead, EMCCA will work closely with stakeholders and communities to build a clear map to deliver transformational projects. The Authority is committed to addressing immediate transport needs while also developing options for larger, longer-term projects. The Authority is committed to ensuring that every pound of funding drives maximum benefit for local people and businesses, now and for generations to come.
(Pic: EMCCA)
