Technology and innovation
We’re harnessing the power of technology to change the way that we use and access transport across the Midlands. Our plans include a 'tap and cap' smart ticketing system, connecting rural communities and working to support local authorities as they accelerate the roll-out of Electric Vehicle charging points.
Major road network technology strategy
Midlands Connect has been empowered by Government to work alongside its partner Local Authorities to shortlist and submit priority schemes for development and delivery on the Major Road Network, a new tier of economically important local ‘A’ roads managed by Local Authorities.
Visit our Roads page to find out more about our road recommendations.
Smart ticketing
We've worked with Transport for West Midlands and Nottingham City Council to develop plans for a region-wide, 'tap and cap' smart payment system for public transport.
Once delivered, it will allow passengers to travel seamlessly across multiple modes of transport, including bus, tram and train, paying for travel via one smart device, such as a debit card or mobile phone, with fares falling under a daily payment cap.
We're seeking £20 million from Government to deliver this 'tap and cap' system.
Rural Mobility
Communities living in rural areas face a unique and varied set of challenges, many caused or exacerbated by poor access to transport. Our research has found that rural areas suffer from:
- Poorer access to services via public transport, such as schools and healthcare facilities – average travel time to these amenities was almost twice as long as in urban areas
- A lower concentration of social mobility ‘hotspots’ compared to the UK average
- Worse productivity – economic contributions per job are 10% lower than in urban areas