January 31, 2026
The East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) is now the official Regional Transport Authority for the Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Derby area.
EMCCA has taken over responsibility for transport plans and strategies, investment and bus operations (working closely with local bus operators) throughout the region. However, EMCCA is not the Local Highway Authority, so the role of managing traffic and maintaining the roads remains with the city and county councils.
Your contact details for bus and wider transport issues remain unchanged at this time. Further updates will be provided as the transition progresses.
This transition marks an important step towards delivering a more connected, efficient, and customer-focused transport network across the East Midlands. By centralising transport responsibilities, EMCCA is uniquely positioned to drive forward innovative solutions and unlock the full potential of the region’s transport infrastructure.
For further details and updates, please visit the official East Midlands Combined County Authority website.
Responsibilities transferring to EMCCA
EMCCA will assume responsibility for the following aspects of public transport provision and support:
Strategic policy and governance
EMCCA will be the single public transport authority, setting regional transport policy and integrating bus services with housing, skills, and economic planning. It will produce a regionwide Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) and establish an Enhanced Partnership with local public transport operators, within which constituent authorities will be represented.
Bus service improvements
EMCCA will liaise with bus operators and devise plans to improve bus services, receiving bus grant funding from the Department for Transport to help deliver these plans.
Concessionary travel
EMCCA will manage and administer the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) and any additional existing discretionary concessions, such as the Tram concession, pre-9.30 am travel for disabled cardholders and BSIP-funded free travel for a carer (subject to eligibility) currently operating in Nottingham.
Supported (subsidised) bus services
EMCCA will manage and procure those bus services that are financially supported because they would otherwise not operate. Contracts for those services currently supported by the City are being novated to EMCCA, ensuring their continuation as present.
Ticketing and fares
EMCCA will manage, develop and implement smart ticketing schemes, including the continuation of existing multi-operator schemes such as Robin Hood and Nottingham Contactless.
Passenger information
EMCCA will be responsible for the management and provision of RealTime Passenger Information (RTPI) system and displays and apps.
Public transport infrastructure
EMCCA will manage infrastructure including bus stops, shelters and RTPI displays. EMCCA will be operationally responsible for the Victoria, Broadmarsh and Bulwell Bus Stations and Queens Drive and Racecourse park and ride sites. For a period of at least two years, the City Council will be responsible for property-related matters.
Customer interface and complaints
EMCCA will assume responsibility for customer service, operator liaison, and feedback regarding public transport.
Capital investment to support bus services
Capital funding will be held by EMCCA, and it will have responsibility for investment planning and prioritisation. Highway delivery will remain with the City Council.
Where and how to direct queries on public transport matters in Nottingham from 1 February 2026.
Bus services
Where can I enquire about bus services?
Commercial bus services: Details about commercial bus services can be found as usual on bus operators’ websites.
How do I complain about a bus service?
Complaints should be made directly to the operator of the service.
How do I make a suggestion about a bus service, or make a request for a service change or improvement?
Email EMCCA directly using [email protected]
Concessionary and discount travel passes
How do I apply for an older person’s or disabled person’s concessionary travel pass?
Information will be maintained on our website for at least 12 months. Alternatively email [email protected]
What do I do if I lose my concessionary bus pass?
Information on what to do if you’ve lost your bus pass can be found here. Alternatively, email [email protected]
How do I renew my concessionary travel pass?
Information about renewing a bus pass can be found here. Alternatively email [email protected]
How do I apply for a Care Leaver’s or Young Carer’s bus pass?
Information regarding the Young Carers Travel scheme can be found at TRAVEL CARDS | Young Carers Notts or by contacting Young Carers Notts on 0115 824 8824 or emailing [email protected]
Information regarding the Care Leavers bus pass can be found by contacting NCC’s Leaving Care Team (email [email protected] or call 0115 876 1333) or by contacting EMCCA via email [email protected].
Bus stops and shelters
How do I report an issue with a damaged or vandalised bus stop or shelter, or missing or out-of-date information?
Problems with bus stops or shelters can reported through [email protected]
Who do I contact if the standing area or footway around a bus stop is uneven or a trip hazard, or if vegetation is hindering access to a bus stop?
This continues to be the responsibility of Nottingham City Council’s Highways team. Problems can be reported online.
How do I make a request for a new bus stop or shelter?
EMCCA is responsible for the provision of bus stops and shelters. A request can be made through [email protected]
How do I make an enquiry about a bus station?
EMCCA is operationally responsible for the bus stations. Any questions or concerns about bus stations can be made through [email protected]
Transport policy and strategy
Who is responsible for transport strategies and bus service developments and funding?
The Local Transport Plan, Enhanced Partnerships and Bus Service Improvement Plan are the responsibility of EMCCA. Details can be found at Transport – East Midlands Combined County Authority
Any queries regarding Enhanced Partnerships please contact [email protected].
Who makes decisions about which bus services should be subsidised?
The funding of those bus services that would not otherwise be viable is the responsibility of EMCCA. It oversees contracts with bus operators to run these services. Details can be found at Transport – East Midlands Combined County Authority