Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced a record breaking £15.6 billion investment to transform regional transport to address regional disparities and modernise local infrastructure.
Working people across the North, the Midlands and the South West will benefit from the largest ever investment in buses, trams and local train infrastructure in city, aiming to enhance connectivity, stimulate economic growth and improve the quality of life for millions outside London and the South East.
The funding, set to be delivered between 2027 and 2032, will empower regional mayors to implement transformative projects tailored to their communities’ needs.
This long overdue investment in regions outside London and the South East is a game-changing commitment that comes ahead of next week’s Spending Review, which will outline the government’s strategy for investing in the country’s future and delivering on the priorities of working people, ensuring every part of Britain is better off.
Possibilities that local authorities can bring to fruition off the back of this investment include projects like the Metro extension connecting Washington to Newcastle, renewing South Yorkshire’s tram network, the delivery of the West Yorkshire Mass Transit, the building of an extension to Birmingham’s sports quarter and the transformation of the Metrolink tram network.
Blake Richmond, Chief Operating Officer at Resonate Group, commented: “Our cities and regions are essential for UK growth, requiring first-rate transport infrastructure to connect people. It’s encouraging to see the government’s investment in a package to support the North, the Midlands and the South West, as this can help create jobs and encourage local development to help grow these regional hubs.”
“Data-driven technologies, in particular, are key to modernising rail industry processes, improving the efficiency and safety of our nation’s transport network. From improved signalling and scheduling for trains to streamlined possession management for repairs, investment in digital tools and data platforms will be critical to delivering the full benefits of these infrastructure upgrades.”
This comprehensive investment is part of the government’s broader £113 billion capital spending plan aimed at revitalising infrastructure and promoting balanced economic development across the UK.
A spokesperson for FirstGroup responded to the investment:
“We were very pleased to welcome the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, to our Huddersfield bus depot today as she unveiled details of £15.6 billion in funding for local transport projects across England’s city regions, including South Yorkshire, the North East, the East Midlands and Tees Valley.
“Transport is key for unlocking economic, social and environmental benefits nationwide, and we welcome this investment across the country. It is good to see that bus connections are put front and centre of these projects, and we will work with local authorities and partners to deliver in the communities we serve.”
