A record £456 million transport investment programme has been approved for York and North Yorkshire, paving the way for significant improvements to roads, public transport links, walking and cycling infrastructure, and community connectivity over the next four years.
The funding package, approved by the Mayor and Members of York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, aims to make everyday travel safer, easier and more accessible for residents, businesses and visitors while supporting longer-term transport ambitions across the region through to 2030.
The programme has been developed jointly by York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, North Yorkshire Council and City of York Council. It sets out how devolved transport funding will be invested to improve transport networks, boost accessibility and strengthen connections across urban, rural and coastal communities.
Mayor of York and North Yorkshire David Skaith said:
"We're investing record amounts to fix our streets and make them safer for everyone who uses them.
"This record investment of £456 million is a defining moment for our region, we’re moving away from short-term fixes and delivering the long-term solutions residents expect."
The approved programme includes a wide range of transport improvements designed to enhance everyday journeys. Planned investment will support:
- Safer local access routes
- Upgraded public spaces
- Enhanced walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure
- Road safety improvements
- Greater transport accessibility
- Better community connectivity
- Safe Routes to School schemes
- Public rights of way upgrades
- Street lighting enhancements
- Additional cycle parking facilities
The investment is intended to improve both existing transport infrastructure and future transport networks, helping support economic growth while providing better access to employment, education, healthcare and other essential services.
North Yorkshire Council Leader Cllr Carl Les said:
“We are committed to improving journeys for our residents, businesses and visitors across North Yorkshire, and this funding will help to achieve this.
“There are very specific challenges in North Yorkshire to ensure safe and sustainable transport links across what is England’s largest county with vast rural areas.
“Having a reliable, accessible and resilient transport network is essential to supporting our communities, strengthening the economy and improving access to employment, education, healthcare and other vital services.”
The Local Transport Delivery Plan has been developed alongside the Mayor's Local Transport Plan, which will set the long-term strategic vision for transport across York and North Yorkshire.
While the MLTP outlines future transport priorities, the LTDP provides the practical roadmap for how funding will be directed towards projects and infrastructure improvements on the ground.
The Combined Authority will now continue working with North Yorkshire Council and City of York Council to develop a detailed pipeline of projects to be delivered through the programme.
The Mayor's Local Transport Plan is currently undergoing public consultation, providing residents, businesses and stakeholders with the opportunity to help shape the future of transport across the region.
Image credit: iStock
