Matt for Mayor – The Independent Choice

Transport

As a transportation advocate, I will prioritise efficient road maintenance, inclusive public transport, and strategic partnerships with utilities for cost-effective infrastructure planning and seamless internet connectivity, fostering regional growth.

Fixing the Roads

With over a decade of experience in highways maintenance, my immediate focus is on implementing efficient systems to assess road conditions and prioritise urgent repairs, enabling councils to manage highways maintenance responsibilities more effectively. Regardless of location, road maintenance responsibilities remain with local councils, supported by central funding. I will collaborate closely with local authorities to address transportation challenges and deliver tangible improvements for residents and businesses alike.

Improving Public Transport Accessibility

Enhancing public transport accessibility is another cornerstone of my agenda. We will conduct a thorough audit of the public’s evolving travel needs alongside those of transport providers in the region, from trains to bike rental shops, to identify areas for improvement. By addressing these gaps, I aim to create a more inclusive, integrated, and efficient public transport system.

Strengthening Strategic Partnerships

In parallel, we're forging strategic partnerships with utility companies to develop a comprehensive plan for major works over the next decade. This collaborative effort aims to minimise disruptions, control costs, and prevent the reoccurrence of road excavations. Additionally, we're working closely with providers of super-fast internet connectivity to ensure seamless network infrastructure across all regions.

Business Support & Inward Investment

The current landscape of business support across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire is fragmented and convoluted, hindering businesses' access to assistance. By coordinating local entities into a unified offer, I will simplify this process, enabling businesses in navigating the full range of available resources effectively.

Geographic Consistency

Identifying and rectifying geographical disparities in support provision is essential. I will ensure equitable access to support for all businesses across the region.

Attracting & Coordinating Inward Investment

Attracting inward investment efforts require coordination. By leading the collaboration among diverse organisations, I will provide businesses and investors with a single point of contact for engaging with the breadth of support and opportunities available.

Promoting Innovation and Investment

Working closely with universities and businesses, I will improve access to research and development opportunities. Additionally, I will engage with investors to instil confidence in investing in the region, supporting both existing businesses and start-ups.

Adult Skills

As mayor, I will continue to unite businesses, colleges, universities, and private providers to develop a consolidated skill-building and life-long learning program for our region. Simplifying and streamlining offerings will make skills more accessible and cost-efficient, fostering a skilled talent pool in Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire. Strong relationships will be fundamental to our shared success. Reduced complexity in schemes will reduce the cost in provision allowing resources to go further.

Housing

Many house builders today prioritise profitability over societal needs, it's time for change towards constructing homes that serve both environmental and community interests. Building with a focus on reducing carbon footprint and enhancing energy efficiency may require higher initial investment, but quickly yield cost savings. By embracing this approach, we not only safeguard our planet but also create sustainable, affordable housing options. Let's champion a paradigm shift in the construction industry, where homes are designed not just for profit, but for the well-being of all of us and the region we call home.

Housing holds the key to easing financial burdens on other public entities. Addressing adult social care and retirement needs amid our aging population can empower individuals with greater independence and dignity. By facilitating efficient operations for care providers, housing initiatives can alleviate the strain on taxpayers and relieve pressure on the NHS. It's time to recognise the interconnectedness of housing with broader societal challenges, not least the need for more starter homes.

Net Zero

In addressing climate change, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. While significant investments like STEP Fusion are essential for our future, we must act now to save costs for individuals, businesses and to avoid more expensive, preventable solutions in the future. Increased investment and adoption of sustainable, flexible public transport is vital, achievable only through collaboration focused on public needs.

I have plans to invest public funds to improve public assets and pump-prime green businesses in the region to reduce our carbon footprint and foster scalable, sustainable development for all to ensure we are doing all we can in the region.

Culture, Heritage, and Tourism

I will co-ordinate with partners to define and develop the marketing of unique Culture, Heritage and Tourism offer of The East Midlands as I amplify our collective voice, celebrating the distinctive attractions of Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire. Together, we can embrace a shared vision, recognising that our unity far surpasses individual efforts.

Through collaboration, not competition, we unlock vast opportunities to boost profitability both locally and beyond. In Ashfield, we're witnessing the fruits of cooperation first-hand. By uniting cultural, heritage, transport, and outreach entities, we have crafted a cutting-edge digital visitor experience. Addressing public needs, enhancing mental health and wellbeing, while fostering the growth of local businesses—our initiatives promise prosperity for all. Join us on this journey of discovery and growth in the heart of the East Midlands.