Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking to improve public transport services outside of major cities.

We are committed to funding all local areas to deliver their local transport priorities. We are providing £2.3 billion over the spending review period through the Local Transport Grant for local transport improvements outside of London and the largest city regions.

We will invest around £900 million each year over the SR period to maintain and improve vital bus services and ensure buses are accessible and affordable for all – building on the £955 million we are providing to local authorities and bus operators in 25/26 to support and improve bus services in England outside London, including areas outside of city regions.

£616 million was announced for Active Travel England to support local authorities to build and maintain walking and cycling infrastructure.

£24 billion capital funding was announced to maintain and improve motorways and local roads across the country. This funding will allow National Highways and Local Authorities to invest in significantly improving the long-term condition of England's road network, delivering faster, safer and more reliable journeys.

Rail services, including those outside of major cities, are supported by requirements on train operators to plan services and design timetables to meet both current and future passenger demand, while also ensuring value for money for the taxpayer. The government commitment to public ownership through Great British Railways will also help to deliver a unified system that focuses on reliable, affordable, high-quality, and efficient transport services, whilst also ensuring safety and accessibility.