What we do

We are one of the largest regions in the UK, we were established in March 2024, bringing together the cities of Derby, Nottingham and the counties, of Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

Combined authorities are regional governance bodies created through devolution agreements between the UK Government and local councils. They enable more localised decision-making on key issues, such as transport, housing, skills and economic development.

In May 2024, Claire Ward was elected as the first Mayor of the East Midlands. She represents over 2.2m people across the region and is responsible for; transport, skills, adult education, housing and land, net zero and economic development.

Our key objectives

We have ten primary objects that aim to enhance the lives of residents and promote regional development:

  • Healthier lives – prioritising healthcare improvements and overall wellbeing for the community.
  • Fairer opportunities – reducing inequality and ensuring that all residents have access to the same opportunities.
  • Better transport – enhancing transport infrastructure to ease travel within the region.
  • Local control – Utilising devolved powers to empower local residents and councils in shaping their future.
  • Green spaces – Expanding and protecting parks and natural spaces.
  • Economic growth – Supporting the growth of businesses and creating new job opportunities.
  • Better jobs – focusing on the creation of high-paying, quality jobs.
  • Stronger infrastructure – improving key infrastructures such as transport, housing, and digital connectivity.
  • Skills for success – aligning training with regional needs so everyone has the opportunity to build a better future.

Our Corporate Plan sets out how we will achieve these objectives. 

Discover the plan here

Our priorities

Transport and digital connectivity

Strong transport and digital connectivity are the backbone of a thriving economy, linking communities, businesses and services while opening doors to jobs, education and innovation. As the region’s Transport Authority, we are empowered to lead the transformation of our transport systems and influence government investment decisions.

Housing and regeneration

EMCCA will work to deliver the homes our region needs by collaborating with local developers and housing providers to create well-designed, energy-efficient and affordable homes that support thriving communities, and meet the needs of residents now and in the future. By making the best use of our region’s assets, including regenerating redundant land and buildings, we will help unlock new opportunities for growth while preserving the character of our towns and cities.

Skills and employment

Our region is one of huge talent and creativity, but it also faces significant challenges around skills development and economic inactivity. The new authority is committed to addressing these challenges by investing in education, training, and employment initiatives that will enable our residents to secure and progress in the jobs of today and tomorrow.

Net Zero and climate resilience

The East Midlands, once the heart of the Industrial Revolution, is now leading a new, cleaner era. While past economic progress has caused environmental harm, we now have the chance to reverse this and build resilience to climate change. By putting the clean industrial revolution at the heart of our inclusive growth agenda, we can create a sustainable economy that works with nature, helping both people and the environment thrive.

Economic development

EMCCA is working closely with businesses, universities, investors and communities to grow our economy, create jobs and bring in new investment to the region. By investing in our people, places and businesses, we aim to ensure we can provide the best opportunities for the region to grow economically, inclusively and sustainably.

Creating thriving places

We will bring together the region’s key growth and regeneration projects under a single, ambitious strategy to drive economic development and create thriving places.

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