The Urban Transport Group, the UK’s network of transport authorities, has welcomed the publication of the English Devolution White Paper, unveiled today by Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Angela Rayner. 

Jason Prince, Director of the Urban Transport Group, said:

“Devolution is playing an important role in delivering transport networks that are responsive to the needs of local communities, from locally controlled bus services to devolved rail services which deliver high passenger satisfaction. 

“We welcome the English Devolution White Paper, which further cements the value of devolution, and sets out the approach to embedding it within the fabric of the country.” 

Key powers related to transport in the White Paper include:

• funding consolidation, with greater autonomy and flexibility, for places with a Mayor
• Local Transport Authorities being empowered to regulate on-street micromobility schemes (like hire bikes)
• a statutory role for Mayors in governing, managing, planning, and developing the rail network
• removing outdated requirements for Secretary of State consent to applications for aspects like dropped kerbs and conversions of footpaths to cycle tracks.

The Urban Transport Group will be publishing a report on transport devolution in early January 2025.