City Region Transport Boost: £15.6 Billion Investment Unveiled by Government
According too a recent proclamation by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, England’s mayoral combined authorities are set to receive £15.6 billion in funding over the next five years.This financial boost aims to advance local transportation initiatives across city regions and their neighboring towns.
During her speech at the Mellor Bus factory in Rochdale on June 4, Reeves criticized the previous government for making grand promises without a solid funding strategy. She emphasized that with new fiscal changes introduced in the budget, this management is now equipped with the necessary resources.
The Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, hailed this funding as a pivotal moment for local governance, empowering leaders to enhance urban areas and foster community growth throughout Britain.
For too long, people in the North & Midlands have been locked out of the investment they deserve. With £15.6bn of investment, we’re giving local leaders the means to drive cities, towns and communities forward, investing in Britain’s renewal. https://t.co/w5zsecFzbg
— Rachel Reeves (@RachelReevesMP) June 4, 2025
This announcement precedes an upcoming Spending Review on June 11 that will address additional projects not under mayoral authority’s purview.
Funding Breakdown
Mayoral Combined Authority
Total Funding (2027/28 -2031/32) £bn
(some funds available earlier)
Pursuable Projects by Mayors
West Midlands
2·4
An extension of light rail connecting Birmingham city center with a new sports quarter is expected to unlock an additional £3 billion from private investors—marking phase one of a broader transit route from east Birmingham to north Solihull.
West Yorkshire
2·1
Aiming for construction commencement by 2028 on West Yorkshire’s Mass Transit light rail network; plans include transforming six transport corridors lacking mass transit coverage and establishing new bus stations at Bradford and Wakefield.
greater manchester td >2 ·5 td >Infrastructure upgrades aimed at enhancing connectivity among communities while creating jobs; expansion plans for Metrolink tram services include adding stops in Bury and Stockport along with launching an all-electric bee Network featuring zero-emission public transport options by2030 . td > tr >South Yorkshire td >1 ·5 td > table >
Your Thoughts?
The response from various stakeholders has been overwhelmingly positive regarding this funding initiative. Jason Prince from Urban Transport Group remarked that this move signifies recognition of transportation spending as essential investment rather than mere expenditure—crucial for fostering enduring growth within society.
“Long-term investments are vital,” stated Henri Murison of Northern Powerhouse Partnership. He noted how prior enhancements made within Greater Manchester’s light rail system have begun bridging productivity gaps compared to London—a trend he hopes will extend across northern regions through prosperous project execution.
TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak expressed optimism about improved public transport access leading directly towards enhanced commuter experiences while benefiting families and supporting local businesses alike—ultimately boosting economic activity overall!
Citing Nick Davies from Green Alliance think tank: “Increased availability of public transport options like buses or trains can considerably contribute towards cleaner air quality while promoting green growth.” He also highlighted how reevaluating Treasury guidelines could pave pathways toward more equitable infrastructure developments outside London—a much-needed shift!
Darren Caplan representing Railway Industry Association looks forward eagerly toward aligning these proposed investments alongside existing programs managed by Network rail throughout UK regions moving forward into future months ahead!
“These schemes could serve as catalysts for urban regeneration,” said Colette Carroll from AtkinsRéalis emphasizing how improved connectivity would bolster investor confidence leading companies towards better economic outcomes nationwide!”
Ben Plowden added his voice advocating further commitments during next week’s Spending Review focusing on revenue support enabling high-quality service delivery tailored specifically around community needs!
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