Record transport funding in UK regions to boost local growth

Record transport funding in UK regions will deliver £15.6 billion for buses, trams, and metro upgrades, transforming mobility and boosting jobs in England’s city regions over the next five years. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves unveiled the historic funding during a speech in Greater Manchester, saying growth must be shared across all communities—not concentrated in a few wealthy areas.

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She emphasized a “new economic model” that drives prosperity by investing in every region.

The funding, which more than doubles capital spending by 2029/30 compared to 2024/25, will benefit areas like South Yorkshire, Tees Valley, the North East, and the East Midlands.

Local leaders will have the flexibility to prioritize projects that meet specific transport needs.

Record transport funding in UK regions empowers local authorities

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander called it a turning point for communities long overlooked in national budgets.

She said, “This is about making Britain better for every family—not just those in the South East.”

Planned projects include a Metro extension from Washington to Sunderland and Newcastle, and the renewal of South Yorkshire’s tram system linking Sheffield and Rotherham.

The funding will also support Metrolink expansions in Manchester and West Yorkshire’s Mass Transit system.

In the West Midlands, a new metro link will connect Birmingham’s sports quarter to East Birmingham and North Solihull, unlocking wider access to jobs and education.

All these efforts aim to shorten commutes and improve quality of life.

Business leaders support record transport funding in UK regions

Henri Murison from the Northern Powerhouse Partnership said this long-term investment will close the productivity gap between regions and London.

He stressed the importance of delivering on key infrastructure projects like tram fleet renewal and Metrolink extensions.

Jonny Haseldine from the British Chambers of Commerce added that the UK needs balanced regional investment to ensure long-term economic growth.

He urged government to maintain momentum and ensure no region is left behind.

The Treasury will release full details of its revised investment strategy and the updated Green Book framework on June 11, aligning with the broader Spending Review.

Source: www.wired-gov.net

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