Midlands Connect to adopt mayoral-led governance model in 2027

Midlands Connect will transition to a new mayoral and leader-led governance model starting in April 2027. This shift follows an independent review and aims to provide the region with greater collective ownership over its strategic transport agenda amidst ongoing devolution and local government reorganization.

Under the new structure, West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker will serve as Chair, and East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward will serve as Vice-Chair. The model is designed to strengthen collaboration between elected mayors and local leaders, creating a unified voice to engage with the government and national partners regarding transport investment priorities.

The organization will focus on identifying strategic transport projects, sharing technical expertise, supporting investment business cases, and addressing cross-boundary infrastructure challenges to support regional economic growth.