Midlands Connect signs landmark Collaboration Agreement’ with Govt
TRANSPORT champion Midlands Connect has signed a first-of-a-kind Collaboration Agreement with the Government.
The organisation has become the first transport body to sign an agreement of this type with the Department of Transport in a move which consolidates its position as a “trusted partner”.
Midlands Connect researches, develops and champions long-term transport projects which will provide the biggest possible economic, social and environmental benefits for the Midlands and the UK.
As part of the Collaboration Agreement, the organisation has committed to support to the Department for Transport in tackling big strategic challenges including freight, decarbonisation, rural connectivity, alternative fuels and others - focusing on the region-specific aspects of such challenges where it can add most value.
The agreement has also seen central government and other national bodies commit to:
Working openly and construc
tively with Midlands Connect at all levels;
Ensuring that the Midlands Connect Strategic Transport Plan is understood across Government in the context of national decision making;
Providing a formal response to future/updated Midlands Connect Transport Plans and
Facilitating regular dialogue between Midlands Connect and Ministers regarding progress of the
agreed priorities within the Midlands Connect Transport Strategy.
Midlands Connect chief executive Maria Machancoses said: “This is a landmark moment for Midlands Connect as we are the first transport body to sign this type of agreement with the Department for Transport.
“It’s something we have worked tirelessly to get right and it will be the foundation of our relationship in the years ahead. Today is the day that Midlands Connect has really grown up and become a true leader in transport policy.
“The guiding principle of this agreement is that people living and working in Midlands, as represented by the region’s business and political leaders, believe that collaboration with the Government will help us shape its decisions on what initiatives to support and where to invest.
“Ultimately we want to make our transport networks more sustainable, and provide lasting, positive effects on the economy, the environment and the people of the Midlands. Our partnership as a region, and with Government, is strong and this agreement will make it even stronger.”
Transport Minister Baroness Vere said: “The work of Midlands Connect is vital – local bodies know what’s best for their region, and where our investment will have the biggest impact as we level up transport and build back better.
“That’s why I’m delighted to sign the Collaboration Agreement between Midlands Connect and the Department for Transport, so we can work together on the region’s priorities and improve the lives of people in the Midlands.”