Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, met with renowned cyclist and active travel advocate Chris Boardman this week to discuss her ambitious plans to enhance active travel across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. The meeting focused on the potential impact of an Active Travel Ambassador in supporting the goals of the newly formed East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), which encompasses Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby, and Nottingham.
Chris Boardman CBE, a former professional cyclist and Olympic gold medallist, is widely recognised for his contributions to promoting sustainable transport. He has played a pivotal role in shaping active travel policies in the UK, most notably through his work as the Commissioner of Transport for Greater Manchester. Boardman’s expertise has been instrumental in advancing cycling and walking initiatives, making cities more accessible and environmentally friendly.
While Chris will not be assuming this role, he provided valuable guidance on how the right candidate could drive positive change in the region, contributing to improved health outcomes and progress toward net zero carbon emissions.
Mayor Claire said: “Meeting Chris was incredibly useful and interesting. With the right leadership in place, our Active Travel Ambassador will play a vital role in driving forward our plans to create a healthier, greener East Midlands. This is about making real progress towards our net zero ambitions, while also ensuring that our communities benefit from safer, more sustainable ways to travel.”
Further details on this role will be available on the EMCCA website in the coming weeks.
The East Midlands Combined County Authority continues to prioritise initiatives that promote sustainability and health, with active travel being a central component of its agenda.