With the advent of Metro Mayors covering large conurbations across the UK there has been a lot of talk of what they can do to improve transport, indeed in some cases these have been followed through on with plans for a major transit system linking Leeds and Bradford, as well as the numerous projects planned across Greater Manchester. And now the Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, is seeking the views of residents in the region to help improve transport.
The Big Transport Conversation wants the public to put forward their views on how transport can be improved across the region. The idea is that the end result is a “better, fairer, and more connected transport”.
Mayor Claire Ward said (at a launch on a double-deck bus at Mansfield Bus Station): “I’m delighted that the Committee has backed my vision for transport. This plan sets out a bold and necessary approach to improving travel across the East Midlands, but it’s vital that local people help shape it by joining the conversation.”
“For too many people in the East Midlands, life doesn’t work because transport doesn’t work. When buses are too expensive, trains don’t run when people need them, or roads aren’t safe or reliable. It affects everything, from work, education, healthcare, and the simple ability to stay connected with family and friends.
“That’s why this plan starts with you. I want to hear your experiences, your priorities, and your ideas. I want to understand what matters most to you, what works well, what doesn’t, and what would make the biggest difference to your daily life. Together, we can shape a transport system that truly works for everyone.
“My vision for the East Midlands is simple: public transport that’s easy and affordable to use, communities connected to one another, not just to the biggest cities and roads and infrastructure that are safe, well maintained, and fit for the future.
“These are big ambitions, but I’m not afraid of the challenge. Some things will take time, but others can change quickly if we focus our efforts in the right places. As your Mayor, I’m ready to fight for the improvements that will make the East Midlands a fairer, greener, better-connected region.
“So read this plan, think about the future you want, and tell me what you want me to fight for because this is just the start of building a transport system that makes life work for everyone.”
The Mayor’s Transport Plan focuses on three main goals:
- Making public transport easier to use and more affordable
- Providing better travel choices that reduce car dependency and connect every community
- Upgrading and maintaining highways to ensure they’re reliable and resilient as travel patterns and the climate change
As part of the Transport Plan, trams or light do get some mention (although obviously no guarantees). It states “We’re also pushing for rail station improvements and better services, and planning new tram or light rail where it’s needed most.”
It is thought that extension to Nottingham Express Transit would be most likely, including a much mooted link between Nottingham and Derby. An idea which has already attracted criticism from local bus companies.
- The Big Transport Conversation is open until 8th February 2026. You can have your say at https://www.eastmidlands-cca.gov.uk/mayors-transport-plan/