Stapleford residents have come together to clearly set out what isn’t working with local transport — and, crucially, what can be done to fix it.
This new report from the Stapleford Assemble is the result of citizen-led assemblies, questionnaires and discussions held throughout 2025.
It captures real, lived experiences from people across the town and turns them into practical, evidence-based recommendations aimed directly at decision-makers, including the Mayor of the East Midlands Combined County Authority.
What the report is about.
At its heart, the document focuses on one major issue: Stapleford is poorly connected, especially for short journeys to nearby places like Beeston, Toton, Chilwell and key services such as City Hospital
Residents describe a transport system that:
Is expensive and confusing, particularly when journeys involve more than one bus operator.
Takes far too long compared to travelling by car.
Is poorly advertised, meaning many people don’t even know what services exist.
Feels unsafe or uncomfortable due to poor bus stop facilities, lighting and road conditions.
Leaves parts of Stapleford — especially the north of the town — significantly less connected than others
The result is heavy reliance on cars, increased congestion, and growing social isolation for people who can’t easily drive.
What residents are calling for.
Rather than vague complaints, the report sets out a clear framework for investment, shaped directly by residents. Key priorities include:
More frequent and better-connected bus services, including a direct route to City Hospital.
Improved bus stops with shelters, lighting and seating.
Better promotion of existing services so people know what’s available.
Safer walking and cycling routes, with proper crossings and infrastructure.
Integrated ticketing so people can travel across different operators using one affordable ticket.
Traffic calming and improvements to Stapleford town centre to make it safer, cleaner and more welcoming.
Alongside these short- and medium-term actions, the report also sets out a long-term vision — including ambitions for a reinstated railway station and future tram extensions linked to regional projects like Trent Arc.
Why this matters.
This document is more than a report — it’s a mandate for change. It shows that Stapleford residents are organised, informed and ready to work constructively with councils, transport providers and regional leaders to improve everyday life in the town.
The recommendations are practical, cost-aware and grounded in real experience. They also align with wider regional goals around air quality, accessibility and economic opportunity.
A personal note.
I’m genuinely grateful to the Stapleford Assemble for inviting me to take part in the sessions and for allowing me to contribute, alongside many others, to the development of this report. It was encouraging to see so many residents engaged, informed and committed to shaping a better future for Stapleford.
Read the full report.
This article only scratches the surface. The full document contains detailed findings, data, maps and clear calls to action.
I strongly encourage you to download the report and have a read.
It’s an important piece of work — and a strong example of what resident-led decision-making can look like when people are given a real voice.
Independent Councillor Richard MacRae 