The East Midlands Mayor has played down fresh plans for a tram network going to Derby – suggesting other transport ideas are in greater need.
Claire Ward says there was a media “obsession” with trams and proposals for tracks in the city.
The Labour Mayor is seeking proposals and ideas from the public on how to improve transport across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.
People have until the end of next week (Sunday, 8 February) to put their ideas and needs forward for consideration by East Midlands leaders.
Earlier this month, a proposal was submitted within the consultation for a new tram network to serve across Derby and into Nottingham.
The Light Rail Transit Association (LRTA) announced a detailed proposal to have four tram lines serving many areas of the city around busy traffic hotspots. The estimated cost is just over £400 million.
The LRTA says the tram lines would help to “significantly improve mobility while supporting economic growth, regeneration, and environmental objectives across the wider Derby area”.
Following the proposal announcement, the Mayor was asked whether or not Derby needs a tram network.
Ms Ward replied: “I think there’s an obsession by people in the media about these trams.
“This proposal is just one that’s been submitted to the consultation. Until we look at the whole of the region, I’m not going to be making a comment on any particular proposal.
“Why is that important? Because, frankly, at the moment there are people in our counties who cannot get a bus to get to work or college, or who don’t have services at night or on a Sunday.
“They are, quite frankly, in greater need than a tram between Nottingham and Derby. Many of the residents there have already got good routes to go between those two cities.”
However, before the consultation, there were proposals announced by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) for an improved tram network – potentially linking both Derby and Nottingham.
One of the East Midlands Mayor’s key long-term growth strategies includes plans to create the “Trent Arc” – a tram network linking both Derby and Nottingham.
The Mayor said: “We have already commissioned a feasibility study on tram extensions. We are waiting to see what that comes back with.
“Of course, I want to be ambitious with the opportunities for public transport – but we need to see where that greatest need is that is going to help to drive our regional economy.”
The LRTA says a first line would run from the Wyvern through the city centre to the Royal Derby Hospital, Mickleover and Mackworth.
A second proposed line would serve Rolls-Royce in Sinfin, Infinity Park, Chellaston and Alvaston.
The third track would connect the University of Derby’s campuses and Allestree. A fourth line would link Derby to Nottingham’s system, with stops at Spondon, Borrowash and Long Eaton.
