Transport in Nottinghamshire — [Sir George Howarth in the Chair]

Discussed local transport issues in Mansfield, including the Robin Hood line and the Sainsbury's junction on the A60. Called for funding opportunities to revisit pinch point projects and addressed highways maintenance, bus services, and regional transportation strategies. I clarified that I am the leader of Nottinghamshire County Council and would not be associated with some challenging issues in the city. I thanked the Government for providing funding to save bus routes across our constituencies, including those by Stagecoach and Trentbarton, which had planned closures due to financial difficulties. The funding has ensured these routes remain viable until April 2023. Additionally, I expressed gratitude for the integrated rail plan that includes Toton, leading to a significant capacity funding grant for our development corporation. Stressed the significance of the devolution deal for forming a new combined authority with an elected Mayor to enhance transport integration across public transport areas in Nottinghamshire.

Mr Howarth welcomed the Minister to their new position.

I thank the hon. Gentleman for securing this debate and express concern about repeated promises of investment in east midlands transport that have not materialised, citing examples like the electrification of the Midland Main Line being promised then withdrawn. I also raise my hope for clear timescales on the completion of the electrification and HS2 link to the East Midlands. I am surprised to hear the hon. Member talk as if there were no investment in transport under the last Labour Government, noting that Nottingham City Council was able to create its tram lines during that period which have been expanded recently. She expresses concern about retiring before future improvements such as the electrification of the midland main line and HS2 are realised. We need certainty from the Government about investment in future transport projects, particularly after the HS2 station was relocated from Toton to East Midlands Parkway.

Welcomed the Minister and highlighted the need for reliable train services in Radcliffe-on-Trent, requesting more frequent trains and improved accessibility. Raised concerns about rural bus cuts affecting constituents' daily needs and called for a review of new ways to fund and deliver these services. Mentioned specific schemes such as the fourth Trent crossing and the junction access into the retail park, highlighting issues of congestion and economic opportunities through improved infrastructure.

Dhesi criticised the Government's underfunding of transport in Nottinghamshire, citing chronic mismanagement and low public funding for the region. He pointed out that transport infrastructure spending was just 64.7% of the UK average in 2020-21, which could have been £1.26 billion more if funded properly. Dhesi questioned the Government's proposals for HS2 in the Midlands and sought clarity on Northern Powerhouse Rail links to the Midlands.