£470m transport investment announced for East Midlands

More than £470 million will be invested in transport across the East Midlands in what leaders have described as a “once-in-a-generation” funding package.

The record settlement, approved by the East Midlands Combined County Authority, aims to improve buses, repair roads and expand safer walking and cycling routes across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

The funding is intended to modernise the region’s transport network while supporting economic growth and environmental sustainability.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said:

This approved funding gives us the certainty we need to invest properly in our roads, improve public transport, and create safer, greener routes for walking and cycling.

It’s about making life better for people across the East Midlands in a way they can feel, every day. Safer streets, quicker journeys, and new opportunities for walking, cycling, and public transport will benefit families, commuters, and local communities.

Major boost for road maintenance

Members of the EMCCA board approved a minimum of £120.9 million per year for road maintenance over the next three years – representing a 140% increase compared with spending in 2024/25.

The funding will be shared between the four regional highways authorities and aims to tackle a growing backlog of repairs while making roads more resilient to heavy use and extreme weather.

Community transport improvements

At least £13.5 million per year will also be allocated to smaller local schemes designed to improve everyday journeys, including:

• Safer crossings and streets for pedestrians and schoolchildren

• Expanded walking and cycling routes

• Junction and road improvements to ease congestion

• Regeneration projects improving public spaces and neighbourhoods

Key projects receiving immediate funding

Initial investment has been approved for several major schemes, including:

• Spondon Interchange improvements in Derby

• A50 Junction 3a link road in the South Derbyshire Growth Zone

• A614/A6097 corridor improvements in Nottinghamshire

• Road safety programmes across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire

• Active travel and regeneration projects across the region

The projects are expected to deliver shorter journeys, safer roads and reduced congestion, while encouraging more sustainable travel options.

The £470m package represents the first phase of a wider transport investment programme, with further funding allocations due to be considered by the regional authority next month.