In this episode, Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, was interviewed by Jason Prince, Director of the Urban Transport Group.

During the conversation, the Mayor outlined how the East Midlands region is geographically unique compared to other city regions in UTG membership, and the need to therefore 'think differently' on transport. The pair also discussed the approach to improving bus services in the East Midlands, why rail devolution is so important to the region, and the Mayor's focus on collaboration with communities on transport issues.

You can listen again below.

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Urban Transport Next is supported by AtkinsRéalis.

About Claire Ward

Claire Ward represents 2.2 million people across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire; having been elected the first ever Mayor of the East Midlands in 2024. The East Midlands Combined County Authority, which she leads, was also established at this time.

A regional Mayor holds responsibility for transport, skills and adult education, housing and land, net-zero and economic development. Some of these powers are still in the process of being devolved.

Claire had a long career working in business and healthcare sectors before becoming the Mayor of the East Midlands. Most recently she was the Chair of Sherwood Forest Hospitals Trust. From 1997 to 2010, Mayor Claire was an MP and served as the Justice Minister under both Tony Blair and Gordon Brown.

She moved to North Nottinghamshire 15 years ago and raised her family here.

About AtkinsRéalis

AtkinsRéalis provides holistic, end-to-end advisory services for many combined authorities and city regions across the UK.

From strategic advisory on funding and finance through feasibility, business case and optioneering, we develop optimum transport and place-based strategies that support the delivery of our client's objectives, including economic, health, environmental and social value.

We support some of the most transformational programmes and schemes in the UK, spanning all modes of transport, from active travel to Mass Transit and Rail, to enhance productivity and place.

We create long-term, collaborative relationships with our clients and partners by developing a deep understanding of their needs and priorities to shape the future of transport and reimagine infrastructure. Together, we’re engineering a better future for our planet and its people.