North’s transport body takes up powers
A new transport body which will push forward a 30 year road and railway scheme across the North has assumed its statutory powers at its first meeting.
Transport for the North (TfN) held its first board meeting in Liverpool with Transport Minister Jo Johnson yesterday.
Transport for the North chairman John Cridland said it is a “once in a generation opportunity” for the North to shape its own transport future.
Cridland said: “The scale of opportunity and ambition cannot be understated. For the first time, recommendations on what and where investment is needed will be agreed by the people that live and work in the North, allowing us to speak with a united voice to central government. It’s a watershed moment for devolution and a once in a generation opportunity to deliver significant improvements in the North’s transport network.
“Our Strategic Transport Plan will set the blueprint for transport infrastructure improvements across the next 30 years and will allow us to make a strong and consistent case to Government for sustained investment in the North.
“We’re already making this a reality. We’re developing fully-costed proposals for Northern Powerhouse Rail, developing plans for major road improvements including a trans Pennine tunnel, starting to roll-out smart ticketing, and are driving tangible service improvements through our co-management of Rail North franchises. This coming year will be the busiest and most important yet.”
Johnson added: “Establishing Transport for the North demonstrates our unwavering commitment to giving our great towns and cities of the North far greater influence over transport investment decisions.
“This Government is investing over £13bn – more than any government in history – to transform northern transport, boost economic growth and deliver significantly improved journeys for passengers. We are already seeing the real, tangible benefits of that investment at Liverpool Lime Street – including major upgrades to platforms and signalling at this great Victorian station.
“With significant new powers enabling Transport for the North to speak with one voice and drive forward crucial projects, such as Northern Powerhouse Rail and smart ticketing, I am confident that TfN will play a pivotal role in delivering the future of northern transport.”
A key driver for improving the North’s connectivity is a bid to increase industrial competitiveness, bridge the economic gap between other parts of the UK and underpin prosperity. The news has been welcomed by business and civic leaders from across the region.
North Yorkshire County Cllr Don Mackenzie, executive member for transport, said: “Investment in transport infrastructure in the North of England is crucial for the economy of the region and we welcome Transport for the North beginning its formal role as England’s first Sub-national Transport Body.
“It remains a top priority for the County Council to ensure that investment is allocated not just in our large cities, but also in the large rural county of North Yorkshire. Our priorities for east to west connections across the region include improvements to the A59 trans-Pennine route at Kex Gill, in Harrogate and at junction 47 on the A1, along with improvements to the A64 and upgrading of the rail links to Harrogate and Scarborough.”
