The UK government has launched the Mass Transit Taskforce, a new expert body tasked with identifying and removing the main barriers slowing the development of urban public transport systems across the country.
The initiative forms part of a broader strategy aimed at supporting economic growth, housing development and improved connectivity in major cities and metropolitan areas.
The new body brings together specialists from the transport, urban planning, finance, industry and academic sectors and will develop recommendations to accelerate the delivery of tram, light rail and high-capacity bus networks.
The Mass Transit Taskforce is chaired by Bridget Rosewell CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) and will examine issues such as complex planning procedures, difficulties in land acquisition and fragmented funding models that continue to hinder the development of urban transport projects across the UK.
At the same time, the UK government has announced plans to consult local authorities on transferring additional powers to regional mayors, enabling them to take final decisions on public transport projects, including mass transit schemes.
Greater powers for local authorities and record investment in mobility
“Integrated mass transit systems can transform how people move around towns and cities, connecting communities with jobs, homes and economic opportunities,” said Taskforce Chair Bridget Rosewell.
The initiative follows the UK government’s commitment of £15.6 billion (€18.3 billion) for transport improvements across England’s largest city regions and the adoption of the Bus Services Act, which gives local authorities greater control over bus services.
In addition, the Better Connected strategy, launched in April 2026, includes more than 40 measures designed to simplify and integrate journeys, including the expansion of contactless tap-and-go payment systems across buses, trams and trains, following models already in place in London, Liverpool and Nottingham.
The first recommendations from the Mass Transit Taskforce are expected within the next six months and could shape the future development of tram, light rail and rapid bus networks in cities across the UK.
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