Midlands Connect shifts to mayoral-led model for transport strategy
What happened
Midlands Connect, which has long championed regional transport connections, is moving to a new mayoral and leader-led model beginning in April 2027. Following an independent review, Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, will become Chair, and Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, will become Vice-Chair. The agenda was previously sponsored by the Department for Transport.
From erewashsound.com
Why it matters
The shift aims to give the Midlands greater collective ownership of its strategic transport agenda. The new structure intends to strengthen collaboration to provide a unified voice to national partners, helping to identify priorities, support investment, and tackle cross-boundary challenges.
From erewashsound.com
Who's involved
- Richard ParkerWest Midlands Mayor who will become Chair of Midlands Connect
- Claire WardEast Midlands Mayor who will become Vice-Chair of Midlands Connect
- MidlandsThe region whose transport strategy is being restructured
- Department for TransportThe government department that previously sponsored the transport agenda
- West MidlandsThe metropolitan county represented by Richard Parker
- East MidlandsThe official region represented by Claire Ward
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- MidlandsSpeculative
The region might gain improved access to investment and funding through a strengthened collective voice.
- West MidlandsSpeculative
The West Midlands could see increased strategic influence and regional funding access via the new mayoral leadership.
- East MidlandsSpeculative
The East Midlands could benefit from strengthened regional collaboration securing investment for growth.
Keep exploring
The entities involved
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Richard Parker
of Malmesbury, Wilts
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Claire Ward
British politician (born 1972)
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Midlands
area comprising central England
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Department for Transport
United Kingdom government ministerial department responsible for the English transport network