In May 2024, Claire Ward was elected Mayor of the East Midlands, representing 2.2 million people across the region.

The Mayor has responsibility for transport, skills and adult education, housing and land, net-zero and economic development.

As the Chair of the East Midlands Combined County Authority, the Mayor works with partners across the region and beyond to deliver transformational change for the East Midlands.

The Mayor also acts as a champion for the region, influencing Government at a national level to boost growth and innovation, shape policy and access further funding.

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What does the Mayor do?

The Mayor provides a single voice for the Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby and Nottingham region, with powers and responsibilities in relation to transport, skills and adult education, housing and land, net-zero and economic development.

The creation of the Mayor was made possible through a devolution deal, which was agreed by the elected leaders of Derbyshire County Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Derby City Council, Nottingham City Council and the Government in November 2022, before becoming law in February 2024.

The current mayoral term runs from May 2024 until May 2028.

Mayor Claire's pledges

Launch ‘Visit East Midlands’ to put our region back on the map, boosting tourism and celebrating our region’s heritage as part of a new cultural strategy.
Back our high streets and support the local economy, by supporting local business and securing investment.
Get a grip of our roads, buses and trains and deliver services that make travelling easier and cheaper.
Deliver more jobs and better skills through apprenticeships for young people and making sure everyone can get the skills they need.
Work for a greener East Midlands ensuring we rise to meet the challenge of net zero and a sustainable future.
Build the homes we need. Affordable homes built on disused land and through bringing properties back into use.

Mayor's Community Development Fund

Mayor Claire has set up the Mayor’s Community Development Fund (CDF) to invest in 10 communities in the East Midlands.

Community groups are being encouraged to bid for a slice of the new £3 million fund to tackle deprivation and improve lives.

Full details, FAQs, guidance and you can check eligibility by clicking on the button below.

Find out more

The Loop

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, is walking 150 miles across the region, following a path she hopes to formalise as The Loop.

This active travel route will weave together cities, towns, waterways, and countryside into one connected journey that is designed to boost the visitor economy, celebrate local identity, and promote healthier and greener ways of getting around.

The Loop is about more than just walking – it’s a big part of the Mayor’s plan to boost tourism, support local high streets and businesses, and encourage active travel like walking and cycling.