SOUTH YORKSHIRE MAYOR SETS OUT PLANS TO CONNECT COMMUNITIES TO OPPORTUNITIES WITH TRANSPORT SECRETARY

Published 26 July 2024 at 5:49pm

Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh MP, rounded off her third full week in the role by meeting with South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, at Meadowhall Interchange to discuss exciting plans to integrate and expand South Yorkshire’s public transport network.  

As Shadow Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh, supported the Mayor’s decision to bring Supertram back into public control in March, after 27 years. 

Plans for extensions to the Supertram network are now being developed ahead of initial public consultation in 2025. This year, the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) is investing around £5m to future proof and extend the lifespan of the tram network.

Taking Supertram back into public control was a first step towards the creation of an integrated public transport system across South Yorkshire which connects buses, Supertram and active travel. The process to reform buses in South Yorkshire is progressing at pace and the Mayor has committed to start rolling out the region’s integrated transport network, which will connect all communities to opportunity, by 2028.

The Mayor also updated the Transport Secretary on progress made to re-open Doncaster / Sheffield Airport and develop a Sustainable Aviation Hub at the site.  

In last week’s King’s Speech, the Government unveiled its legislative agenda which included plans to give Mayors and Combined Authorities greater powers, bring rail services into public ownership and allow more local leaders to control bus services.  

Oliver Coppard, South Yorkshire’s Mayor, said: “Lou Haigh is someone who understands the transport challenges facing South Yorkshire. Under her leadership, the Department of Transport has hit the ground running, setting out bold plans to bring rail services into public control and give communities across the country greater control over bus services. 

“I am committed to radically improving our public transport network; because ultimately if we want people to stay near and go far in South Yorkshire, we need to connect communities to opportunity. I know that with Lou Haigh as Transport Secretary we have a partner in government who shares and understands these ambitions.  

“I look forward to working with Lou and the government to create a world class, fully integrated public transport system connecting our buses, trams, trains, and active travel routes here that will form the bedrock of the bigger and better economy we’re creating in South Yorkshire.”

Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said: “Across the country we’re committed to improving transport for everyone, no matter how they choose to travel.

“I used to commute to Meadowhall every day for work so know the importance of good connectivity in this area. Now as Transport Secretary, I’m delighted that South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority are on board with our vision for integrated transport.”