Leicester City Council has announced plans to slash £3.2 million from its budget for transport initiatives, affecting the long-running Connecting Leicester scheme in the 2025/26 financial year.
The scheme, which has been instrumental in modernising Leicester’s infrastructure, previously funded projects such as the refurbishment of St Margaret’s Bus Station, upgrades to city centre streets, and an expansion of the city’s cycle lane network.
Sir Peter Soulsby, Leicester’s mayor, confirmed that the programme would be temporarily “paused” as the council works to balance its budget.
“Our capital scheme is under pressure and we have to acknowledge we do not have the money to do all the things we would like to,” said Soulsby.
While essential road maintenance will continue, Soulsby emphasised that new projects under the Connecting Leicester umbrella will be postponed for the time being.
The council explained that the £3.2 million earmarked for cuts had not yet been allocated to specific projects. The decision reflects the broader financial constraints facing the city’s budget.
“”We hope the financial situation will improve in the coming years when we will look to continue building on the progress we have already made,” Soulsby added.
City councillors are scheduled to vote on the 2025/26 budget proposals on 19 February, which will determine the fate of these cuts.
The Connecting Leicester initiative was launched to improve the city’s transport links and make it more accessible and sustainable. Key projects have included modernising public transport hubs, pedestrianising key areas, and enhancing cycle-friendly routes.
