Mass Transit Taskforce to Revolutionize Urban Transport

The Mass Transit Taskforce is set to advance new tram, light rail, and bus networks in towns and cities across the UK, as announced by the government on May 20, 2026. This taskforce is composed of leading professionals in transport, industry, finance, and academia who will focus on identifying key challenges to implementing mass transit systems and developing solutions to overcome them. Mass transit includes systems such as trams, light rail, and high-frequency buses designed to transport large groups of people swiftly throughout urban areas. Such networks have significantly enhanced city life in regions like Greater Manchester, Nottingham, the North East, and the West Midlands. They play a crucial role in connecting individuals to jobs, housing, public services, and opportunities while simultaneously reducing traffic congestion and carbon emissions. Bridget Rosewell CBE will lead this taskforce, which will function independently to formulate effective recommendations based on successful models from around the globe to expedite the establishment of mass transit systems. The taskforce will consist of various members, including: - David Milner, Managing Director of Create Streets - Richard de Cani, Chief Officer for Global Business and Markets at Arup - Jason Prince, Director of the Urban Transport Group The Urban Transport Group will also provide administrative support for the taskforce. Current challenges such as cumbersome planning processes, fragmented funding structures, and land acquisition issues hinder the rollout of these transit systems. The taskforce aims to address these obstacles by recommending innovative reforms to planning, financing, and delivery models, with specific guidance for governmental action. Additionally, the government plans to consult on delegating more authority to mayors, enabling them to take command of public transport decisions, which includes the management of mass transit networks. This delegation, known as Transport and Works Act Orders (TWAOs), will empower local leaders with the tools required to tailor transportation systems that meet community needs. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander shared: "Mass transit has the potential to transform towns and cities across the country. Establishing a more integrated transport framework will not only stimulate economic growth and job creation but will also help fulfill housing demands. This is precisely why I am thrilled to announce the inception of the Mass Transit Taskforce, which will leverage its expertise to make practical contributions to the future of urban transport. Furthermore, we’re transferring control to local authorities, equipping mayors with the ability to manage mass transit issues effectively." The Mass Transit Taskforce has already commenced its work, gathering evidence in preparation for its initial recommendations in six months. More information about the taskforce, including full membership details and immediate actions, will be revealed soon. Chair Bridget Rosewell CBE stated: "Integrated mass transit systems can revolutionize how communities navigate urban environments, linking them with jobs, homes, and opportunities. I am honored to lead this taskforce in examining the challenges to implementation and providing actionable suggestions to both the government and local authorities to turn ambition into reality." This announcement is part of a broader initiative by the government to enhance local governance over transportation. As part of the 2025 Spending Review, £15.6 billion has been allocated to Transport for City Regions (TCR) settlements, considerably boosting investment in transportation across England’s major urban regions. The Bus Services Act, enacted in October 2025, introduced significant reforms to bus travel, enabling local administrations to gain control over routes and safeguarding passengers from abrupt service cuts while lifting restrictions on councils operating their bus companies. The government’s Better Connected strategy, launched in April 2026, further extends this vision, outlining over 40 commitments to simplify and make daily commutes more economical. Among these advancements is the introduction of tap-and-go contactless travel across buses, trams, and trains, mirroring the interconnected systems currently available in cities like Liverpool, London, and Nottingham. Alongside historical investments in local road infrastructure and the establishment of the Mass Transit Taskforce, the government is fulfilling its pledge to equip local leaders with the necessary authority and resources to curate transport networks that best serve their communities. Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, remarked: "We harbor ambitious plans for our region, with a mass transit system as a crucial component—enhancing connectivity and stimulating economic growth. We recognize that there are too many obstacles to executing mass transit projects in the UK, so I support this taskforce and any action that encourages meaningful change. Local leaders are best positioned to understand their communities – empowering us will facilitate the change our residents want and deserve." North East Mayor Kim McGuinness expressed: "I am advancing our initiative to extend the North East's Metro system to Washington, a request by residents since the network's inception in 1980. This illustrates the community’s desire for exceptional mass transit, and I am proud to oversee Metro’s first extension in three decades. Our celebrated Metro system, the UK's first modern mass transit network, has facilitated over 1.7 billion journeys, serving more than 30 million riders annually, connecting them with jobs, education, and other opportunities. The government’s taskforce will bolster my aspiration to extend the Metro as part of the Angel Network—a premier integrated transport system." Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, commented: "Mass transit is integral to the future transportation framework in the West of England. In tandem with improvements to bus services, train schedules, and enhancements to roads and active travel, the government’s new Mass Transit Taskforce will inject additional expertise as we explore optimal routes for efficient mass transit in our area, whether through trams, light rail, or improved buses. Recently, the Devolution Act has empowered mayors with additional tools for creating change in our regions. Today, we are witnessing an exciting expansion of local powers, allowing us to act swiftly." Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram remarked: "Liverpool was the birthplace of the world’s first intercity passenger railway, giving us unique insight into the transformative potential of a robust transport system—not just for mobility, but also for job creation and investment opportunities. That’s why I’ve committed to establishing a rapid transit system in the Liverpool City Region ahead of Euro 2028, starting with bus rapid transit to enhance connectivity and expedite accessibility for residents. Historically, large-scale transport projects outside London have faced undue complexity, so it’s encouraging to see government initiatives aimed at removing barriers and returning authority to local leaders. Transformative change is possible when plans are translated into action." For further information, please explore the [GOV.UK](https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-mass-transit-taskforce-to-reshape-the-future-of-transport-in-towns-and-cities) source link.

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