Derby receives £25m boost to make city greener and cleaner

Derby City Council has approved £25 million of new funding from the East Midlands Combined County Authority to continue making the city greener and cleaner.

The multi-year settlement will enable the city council to push ahead with its Sustainability Investment Programme for 2026/27 and will support various projects.

These include enhancing roads and infrastructure, advancing major transport schemes, investing in parks and open spaces and implementing strategic flood protection measures.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “This investment shows the power of regional collaboration. Through EMCCA, we’re backing Derby with long-term funding to improve transport and connectivity – making travel easier, greener and more efficient.

“Transport is central to our vision. From upgraded roads and bus infrastructure to safer school routes, this targeted investment is already improving everyday journeys and reducing emissions.

“By working with Derby City Council, we are ensuring these funds deliver lasting benefits – connecting people to opportunities, supporting growth and building a more sustainable future for the region.”

Councillor Carmel Swan, the city council’s cabinet member for climate change, transport and sustainability, said: “With this new funding, we can build on a successful year of progress and keep moving at pace towards a cleaner, greener Derby.”

The new cash aims to builds on efforts to make Derby a better connected and sustainable city.

Over past 12 months, more than 63,000 sq metres of carriageway surface dressing was completed, alongside 9.5km of roads and 16km of footway micro surfacing – all aimed at making journeys smoother.

Innovative in-situ recycling methods were implemented in Moorway Lane, notably reducing carbon emissions by over 100 tonnes, while over 5,100 sq metres of critical concrete repairs were completed at high-stress locations like key roundabouts and busy bus stops.

Derby saw more successes in the realm of green and sustainable transport, with 40 bus shelters refurbished, which, coupled with new real-time information totems, have enhanced the public transport experience.

New play areas and upgraded park facilities, underpinned by over £550,000 of investments in sport and recreation, have also given the city’s green spaces a boost.

Carmel added: “Investing in sustainable transport, our green spaces and the wellbeing of our communities, we are not only tackling today’s challenges but also planning responsibly for the future.

“This investment programme is about making everyday life better for people across Derby, while doing the right thing for the environment and future generations.”