Mass Transit Taskforce has been launched by the UK government to help speed up urban public transport schemes. The expert body will look at the barriers still holding back transport projects in cities and metropolitan areas across the country.

Mass Transit Taskforce targets UK transport delays
Mass Transit Taskforce targets UK transport delays

Mass Transit Taskforce focuses on delivery barriers

The initiative sits within a wider government approach linked to economic development, housing growth and stronger transport connections. Its work will cover tram systems, light rail routes and high-capacity bus networks, all of which are central to urban mass transit projects.

According to the Department for Transport’s official announcement on the Mass Transit Taskforce, the body brings together specialists from transport, urban planning, finance, industry and academia. They are expected to prepare recommendations that could help accelerate the planning and delivery of mass transit schemes.

Bridget Rosewell CBE, Commander of the Order of the British Empire, has been appointed to chair the new body. The group will examine issues including complex planning procedures, land acquisition challenges and fragmented funding structures.

These problems continue to slow the development of urban public transport systems in different parts of the UK. The taskforce is expected to identify ways to reduce those barriers without changing the core role of local and national authorities.

Regional mayors could gain wider transport powers

The UK government also plans to consult local authorities on giving regional mayors additional powers. Under those proposals, mayors would be able to make final decisions on public transport projects, including mass transit schemes.

The proposed transfer is tied directly to decision-making on public transport projects. It also sits alongside wider measures that give local authorities stronger control over bus services.

“Integrated mass transit systems can transform how people move around towns and cities, connecting communities with jobs, homes and economic opportunities,” said Taskforce Chair Bridget Rosewell.

Funding and Better Connected strategy support the shift

The announcement follows the government’s commitment of £15.6 billion (€18.3 billion) for transport improvements across England’s largest city regions. It also comes after the adoption of the Bus Services Act, which gives local authorities stronger control over bus services.

Another linked measure is the Better Connected strategy, launched in April 2026. It includes more than 40 actions designed to make journeys simpler and more integrated.

One measure involves expanding contactless tap-and-go payment systems across buses, trams and trains. The approach follows models already used in London, Liverpool and Nottingham.

The first recommendations from the Mass Transit Taskforce are expected within six months. They could influence the future development of tram, light rail and rapid bus networks in cities across the UK.