South Yorkshire Mayor Unveils £1.5bn 'People's Network' Transport Plan
Mayor Oliver Coppard has announced a transformative £1.5bn transport initiative for South Yorkshire, dubbed the "People's Network." This ambitious plan aims to integrate trams, buses, and hire bikes under public control, with a distinctive molten orange and asphalt black livery that pays homage to the region's industrial heritage in coal and steel.
Key Features of the People's Network
The People's Network will see buses franchised and brought under public control by next year, joining the Supertram system, which was reintegrated into the combined authority's management in 2024. Over the next five years, a large fleet of electric buses and 25 new trams will be introduced, with approximately 70% of the bus fleet expected to be electric by 2027. Funding has already been secured for 186 zero-emission buses in Sheffield.
Coppard described this as a "once-in-a-generation change to how transport works in South Yorkshire," emphasizing that the network will be joined-up, sustainable, affordable, and people-centric. The bike hire schemes in Sheffield will be rebranded next year to align with the new colour scheme, which references the area's industrial past and ingenuity.
Investment and Funding Details
About £1.5bn of investment from devolved funding settlements will be allocated to the network over the next five years. This includes £630m for the renewal and enhancement of the Supertram system and £350m for buses. The plan follows successful models like Greater Manchester's Bee Network and West Yorkshire's Weaver Network, aiming to improve connectivity and support economic growth.
Fares have not been finalized, but Coppard expressed hope to offer free travel to under-18s, along with increased funding for road safety, walking, wheeling, and cycling initiatives. Additionally, Doncaster Sheffield Airport is scheduled to reopen in 2028 with a separate subsidy, after closing in 2022 due to commercial unviability. Coppard noted that improved tram or train access to the airport could enhance its viability and boost passenger numbers.
Broader Context and Support
The region is set to benefit from major investments in Northern Powerhouse Rail, a project advocated by former Sheffield council leader and Labour home secretary David Blunkett. Blunkett highlighted the opportunity to transform travel and improve connections for economic growth, stating that a functional transport network is essential for South Yorkshire's future.
Henri Murison, chief executive of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, added that South Yorkshire has a bright future but needs a better transport network to connect people to higher-paying jobs and opportunities, areas where it currently falls short. This plan represents a significant step towards addressing those gaps and revitalizing the region's infrastructure.
