Local authorities across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire will receive more than £18 million to expand and upgrade Active Travel infrastructure, strengthening plans for walking, wheeling, and cycling across the region. The funding forms part of a wider national allocation aimed at improving sustainable transport and reducing pressure on local networks.
Active Travel England has released its 2025 capability ratings, which influence how much investment each authority receives. Nottingham City Council achieved the region’s highest score. Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire recorded improvements in their ratings, signalling progress in their developing active travel networks. Derby City Council received a lower score but remains eligible for support to advance future projects.
Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “This year’s Active Travel capability ratings show both the progress and the challenges across our region. With nearly £19m allocated to our region to support safer routes and improved walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure, we now have a real opportunity to accelerate change. Our goal is to make active and sustainable travel options safer and more accessible for everyone. We also look forward to EMCCA receiving its own rating in 2027 as our regional approach continues to develop.”
The programme sits within a multi-year national funding package worth £626 million, first outlined in the Government’s Spending Review. The national plan aims to deliver 500 miles of new and upgraded walking and cycling routes and increase the number of low-carbon local journeys made each day. The initiative is designed to support public health goals, reduce congestion, and enhance economic resilience.
Alongside the funding release, regional leaders are gathering views on long-term transport priorities as part of an ongoing consultation to improve connectivity across the East Midlands.
