More than £470 million will be invested in transport across the East Midlands in what leaders are calling a “once‑in‑a‑generation” funding package to transform travel, boost local economies and improve quality of life for residents.
Approved by the East Midlands Combined County Authority, the settlement is the largest transport funding allocation ever secured for the region, covering Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. The investment aims to modernise the network, cut congestion, improve road safety and expand active travel infrastructure.
Recognising a significant backlog of maintenance issues across local highways, EMCCA has guaranteed £120.9 million per year for the next three years for essential road repairs and resurfacing – a 140% increase on 2024/25 levels.
The funding will support smoother, safer roads, reduced potholes and improved journey reliability, as well as a more resilient network able to withstand extreme weather and rising traffic demand.
Funding will be shared across the four local highways authorities in Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.
Beyond major maintenance activity, the settlement commits at least £13.5 million per year to smaller, community‑oriented schemes, including:
- Safer streets and school crossings
- Expanded cycling and walking routes
- Local road and junction upgrades to reduce congestion
- Regeneration projects improving neighbourhood public spaces
These schemes are designed to improve everyday journeys and support local neighbourhoods.
Several strategic schemes have been fast‑tracked for immediate investment, including:
- Spondon Interchange, Derby – improving access and reducing congestion
- A50 Junction 3a link road in the South Derbyshire Growth Zone – supporting new housing and economic development
- A614/A6097 corridor improvements, Nottinghamshire – improving journey times and road safety
- Road safety programmes across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire
- Active travel and regeneration schemes promoting low‑carbon, healthier transport choices
Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, commented:
“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.”
These projects are expected to deliver shorter commutes, safer journeys and better access to key employment and education destinations.
The settlement aims to drive inclusive economic growth, improve regional connectivity, support the shift to more sustainable transport, and create a network fit for future demand. The investment forms the first phase of a wider EMCCA transport programme, with additional allocations to be considered next month.
Image credit: iStock
