Funding approved for new junction to unlock development site

Millions of pounds worth of funding which could help unlock a major development site to the south of Derby has been approved by the East Midlands Combined County Authority.

At a meeting last week, EMCCA’s board approved a package worth more than £470 million, which will be invested in transport across the East Midlands.

The funding aims to modernise the region’s transport network, support economic growth, and improve environmental sustainability, delivering lasting improvements across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire.

Among the ‘high priority’ projects to be funded is the creation of the A50 Junction 3a link road.

The new junction will ultimately unlock further development of Infinity Park Derby, Derby’s flagship regeneration project, and Infinity Garden Village, which includes the Wragley Way and Lowes Farm housing development sites which extend into South Derbyshire.

The project aims to deliver up to 4,500 new homes, benefiting communities across south Derby and South Derbyshire.

It also aims to deliver 3.45 million sq ft of new employment floor space – and bring an additional 5,000 jobs to the area.

Cash has also been approved for upgrades to the A52/A52T Spondon Interchange, to allow better traffic flow and support active travel initiatives, making it easier and safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

The £470 million, which will be shared between the four local highways authorities across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

A minimum of £120.9 million has been approved for road maintenance and repairs across the region for each of the next three years – a 140% uplift on maintenance investment in 2024/25.

In addition, a minimum of £13.5 million per year will support smaller-scale, community-focused transport schemes to improve people’s lives.

Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward said: “This approved funding gives us the certainty we need to invest properly in our roads, improve public transport, and create safer, greener routes for walking and cycling.

“It’s about making life better for people across the East Midlands in a way they can feel, every day.

“Safer streets, quicker journeys, and new opportunities for walking, cycling, and public transport will benefit families, commuters, and local communities.”

According to EMCCA, the latest funding package represents the first phase of a wider investment programme, with additional funding allocations to be considered next month.

Further details on future allocations will be announced later this year.