£56m for Portsmouth and South East Hampshire transport network

Local transport projects in the Portsmouth city region will be supported with £56m the Governments Transforming Cities Fund.

The funding will go towards a range of local projects including the relocation of Gosport bus station and taxi rank, and the development of new and upgraded walking and cycling routes.

The Ryde transport hub in the Isle of Wight is also set to benefit from new links for cycling and walking and the realignment of the current bus interchange, which will mean both tourists and residents can cut time off their journeys.

Roads Minister Baroness Vere said: “The Transforming Cities Fund allows cities across the UK to enhance their local transport networks, opening up access to jobs and services. We’re committed to levelling up transport infrastructure across the country, boosting local economies and enhancing local connectivity. This multi-million-pound investment in Portsmouth and the surrounding area will do just that, helping the area build back better from COVID-19.”

Alongside the specific projects already mentioned, Portsmouth City Council proposes using the money to build new bus lanes and bus links around Portsmouth itself.

The announcement follows a previous grant of £4m awarded to Portsmouth City Council last year.