Local authorities in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire have put forward a new vision for transport ‘without borders’ across the region, as they seek to work together to improve services.
Leaders from Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Staffordshire County Council have unveiled a Joint Strategic Transport Statement, which outlines a series of shared priorities aimed at enhancing public transport, road safety and active travel while embracing modern technology and environmental sustainability.
The plan focuses on improving public transport by increasing rail capacity, expanding bus use and introducing regional integrated ticketing. Another priority is supporting zero-emission infrastructure, which involves decarbonising bus and taxi fleets and expanding access to residential EV charging.
Enhancing the road network’s efficiency and safety is also a goal, with measures such as better design, stricter enforcement and improved traffic flow management. Promoting active travel is another significant aspect, including developing cycle networks, improving routes and making sure housing is delivered in locations where people can get around on foot or by bike.
In addition, the plan calls for investment in digital connectivity and modernisation, such as implementing smart traffic management systems and enhancing real-time travel information.
Proposed projects include a ‘Bus Rapid Transport network’ across North Staffordshire, upgrades to the A52 and A53 and rail station improvements in Stoke-on-Trent, as well as potential new stations at Meir and Etruria and new mobility hubs for areas without fixed bus services.
Additional measures include a segregated cycle network using the region’s canal paths, an upgrade of junction 15 of the M6, and a bus-only link road at Newport Lane to boost economic opportunities at Etruria Valley.
The statement also calls for ‘substantial’ capacity and service improvements on the West Coast Main Line following the cancellation of the second phase of HS2, including more services stopping at stations in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
Highlighting the need for greener travel options, the statement notes that 40 per cent of carbon emissions from trips into, out of and inside Staffordshire stem from journeys under 10 miles.
Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and regeneration, said: “We’re already getting on with the job of improving transport in Stoke-on-Trent. Our Bus Service Improvement Plan has reduced fares and introduced new routes and technology to prioritise buses at key junctions – and our Transforming Cities Fund project is delivering major upgrades at Stoke-on-Trent railway station, which will make a real difference to passengers.
“But we can’t afford to build walls at our borders. The challenges we face – whether it’s fixing our roads, improving rail links or making public transport a better option for more people – don’t stop at the city limits. If we want real progress, we need to work closely with our neighbours and push together for the investment we need.
“That’s what this Joint Strategic Transport Statement is about. Devolution is a chance to take control of our own future, but it only works if we work together – and we will work together to get things done.
“By strengthening our partnerships with Staffordshire County Council, transport operators and government, we can deliver a transport system that actually works for people – one that’s reliable, sustainable, and fit for the future. And when we do that, we don’t just improve transport, we unlock new jobs, attract investment and help Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire grow.”
Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for strategic highways, Mark Deaville, added: “Our joint transport statement sets out a vision for Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent where we recognise that networks and operations span administrative borders.
“Through close collaboration and by pooling our resources and knowledge, we can work effectively with central government and other key organisations, attracting the investment needed to improve transport corridors and both local and regional services.
“We’re committed to creating an efficient and sustainable transport system for Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent. This will increase opportunities for our communities, boost economic growth, and support carbon reduction, while optimising our central location and existing connectivity.”
The Joint Strategic Transport Statement will be discussed at a Stoke-on-Trent City Council cabinet meeting on Tuesday, February 25.
