East Midlands Combined County Authority joins Urban Transport Group
The East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) has today joined the Urban Transport Group (UTG) as a Principal Member, strengthening the network of transport authorities across the UK.
EMCCA, which was established in February 2024 and brings together Derbyshire County Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Derby City Council and Nottingham City Council, is the single public transport body for the East Midlands region.
Its goal is to transform transport opportunities for those in the region by improving local rail, buses, roads and active travel options, promoting greater use of electric cars use, and building on its strong reputation for transport innovation.
Earlier this week, EMCCA secured nearly £200 million from the Department for Transport to invest in creating better connections between cities, towns and rural areas, making it easier and cheaper to travel around the whole region.
UTG now has eight Principal Members - the highest tier of UTG membership - in the largest city regions in England (London, West Midlands, Greater Manchester, Liverpool City Region, West Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, North East and East Midlands). It has six other Members spread across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Nottingham City Council, which was previously a UTG Member in its own right, will now be represented through EMCCA.
As a Principal Member, EMCCA will have a representative on the UTG Board, which is made up of eight Directors - one from each of its Principal Members. Peter Mann, Interim Transport Programme Director, will sit on the UTG Board as EMCCA’s representative.
Peter Mann said:
“On behalf of the East Midlands Combined County Authority, I am delighted to be joining the Urban Transport Group, adding to the strength and depth of the group which brings such influence to bear with government and industry. UTG has long led the debate on transport at the highest level and we hope to be able to play our part in its continued role.”
Jason Prince, Director of the Urban Transport Group, said:
“I’m thrilled to welcome East Midlands Combined County Authority as a Principal Member of the Urban Transport Group.
“As the first Combined County Authority to join us, EMCCA adds a new dynamic to our membership with its unique geographical makeup, covering great cities like Nottingham and Derby as well as the Peak District. This is where the strength of our network lies – with each individual member bringing different perspectives, insights and experience on how to improve public transport and active travel options across city regions, their towns and surrounding areas.”