Government investment of £104m is set to help councils improve transport for communities across England.

The funding, which will be shared with communities outside England’s major cities, will enable local authorities to decide how to improve public transport and drive forward schemes that boost growth and matter most to their local area.

This could include new zero emission buses, improving accessibility, reducing congestion and making streets safer with improved lighting and crossings for pedestrians and cyclists.

The government has now confirmed how much funding each local authority across the country will be receiving under the Local Transport Grant (LTG). The funding boost will see significant uplifts for the North-west, Yorkshire and Humber, East Midlands and West Midlands and will enable councils to develop detailed plans for local schemes that have the greatest impact in their areas.

Transport secretary, Heidi Alexander, said: “Good transport connections are the foundation of thriving communities, which is why we’re backing local authorities to transform journeys for millions of people across England.

“This investment will help councils to improve transport for local people – from cleaner buses to safer cycling routes – connecting communities with jobs, education and essential services.

“By putting resources directly into the hands of local leaders, we’re ensuring every part of the country benefits from better transport links that support economic growth and provide opportunity – all part of our Plan for Change.”

David Skaith, the mayor of York and North Yorkshire, added:  “An accessible, affordable and reliable transport network is critical to growth in our region – connecting people to jobs, education and vital services.

“After decades of neglect, we won’t be able to realise our transport aspirations overnight. However, this funding is a welcome boost that will ensure we can continue laying the groundwork and bringing together the skills and expertise we need to deliver the transport improvements across York and North Yorkshire that our communities want and need to see.”

The £104m resource allocation boost for local authorities follows the government’s commitment of £2.2bn, providing them with multi-year funding certainty to improve transport in their communities.

Click here to see full details of the LTG allocations.