Derby gets £15m to improve roads, fix the A52, upgrade the Ring Road & design a Darley Abbey bridge.
Some people think it is not enough money and feel more funding is needed for roads. The East Midlands body must approve the budget, with this vote occurring on March 10. The money is part of a larger package for Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire.
Over £6 million will improve the A52, and Inner Ring Road upgrades are planned too. They will study a Darley Abbey bridge replacement, and feasibility work will help cyclists and walkers. It will focus on key routes into Derby, and they plan culvert repairs and highway maintenance.
Another £3 million will go to a junction at Merrill Way, A514, and Boulton Lane; this helps build the new A50 junction. It supports the South Derby Growth Zone, and more money will fix highways and improve buses.
A council member called it a big step, saying it helps everyone move around Derby. It can reduce congestion and bad roads, and cycling routes and transit will get better. However, other council members want more money for roads.
One person said roads are poor and need nearly £100 million in repairs. Pavements are turning to gravel, which might hurt older people, and another person agreed more money is needed.
The regional mayor said it helps Derby, building a better future. The funding will make travel easier and safer by bus, bike, or foot. It will also fix roads that really need it.
The funding goes to a committee on March 4, and then, the EMCCA Board will check it next week. Lastly, it goes to the Department for Transport, and Derby’s cabinet will then see a detailed report.