Andy Burnham, mayor of the East Midlands, has criticised the UK government’s decision to reduce investment in regional transport projects to help fund defence spending, arguing that the move undermines both economic growth and national security. Speaking in the wake of announcements regarding cuts to two major road schemes in the region, Burnham warned that such decisions represent a setback not only for the East Midlands but for the wider country.

Last Monday, Burnham outlined his vision of empowering devolved regions within the UK, emphasising the importance of infrastructure investment in regional development. However, less than 24 hours later, he learned from government officials that nearly £1 billion would be withdrawn from transport projects in the East Midlands, including key upgrades to the A46—a route identified as critical for enabling business expansion. Burnham said that this decision highlights a fundamental flaw in government policy that treats defence and infrastructure as competing priorities rather than complementary components of national strength.

Burnham stressed that defence investment could drive substantial opportunities in advanced manufacturing, engineering, and supply chain industries across the UK, but such growth depends on reliable access to transport and energy infrastructure. Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, regions with significant defence-related businesses, exemplify how weakened infrastructure investment could hamper broader economic development.

The mayor also criticised the lack of regional input in the decision-making process, noting that the cuts were decided in discussions involving only a small group of civil servants and ministers, without consultation with local leaders who understand the economic realities on the ground. He argued that meaningful regional voices are essential for balancing the trade-offs involved in funding choices.

Beyond the economic arguments, Burnham highlighted the issue of public trust. He pointed out that the East Midlands has historically received the lowest transport investment per capita in the UK, with £368 compared to London’s £1,313, fostering a sense of neglect among residents. The reversal of funding after initial promise, he said, reinforces the perception that regions like the East Midlands are undervalued by central government.

Burnham concluded that building a fairer, stronger, and safer UK requires coordinated investment in both defence and enabling infrastructure, coupled with genuine regional engagement. He cautioned that failing to align these priorities risks weakening both national security and economic resilience.