Major new Northern Powerhouse Rail plans have been launched, which should boost services across Yorkshire and the North East.
The first phase of the plans will prioritise upgrades and electrification between Leeds and Sheffield, Leeds and York and Leeds and Bradford. These will be delivered in the 2030s.
In the North East, work on a business case for the Leamside Line has taken place, ensuring Northern Powerhouse Rail services reach Newcastle.
Plans include improvements to stations at Leeds, Sheffield and York, as well as pressing forward with work at Bradford.
£11m has been agreed to develop a new Rotherham Gateway station.
Regular services will become the norm for passengers between Newcastle and Durham via Darlington.
“For too long, the North has been held back by underinvestment and years of dither and delay – but that ends now.
“This new era of investment will not just speed up journeys, it will mean new jobs and homes for people, making a real difference to millions of lives.
“The exciting improved stations across Leeds, Sheffield, York and Bradford will reflect the prestigious place rail holds in the northern economy, and regenerate vibrant, bustling districts in these cities.
Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander
“The first phase of Northern Powerhouse Rail will prioritise upgrading rail onnections across Yorkshire and progressing work on the business case for the Leamside Line as part of ensuring services reach Newcastle, improving opportunities across the region.”
Responses
Presumably the electrification plan to link Leeds and Sheffield will be routed via Wakefield and Barnsley ?
Heidi Alexandre: “For too long, the North has been held back by underinvestment and years of dither and delay – but that ends now. ”
But is doesn’t end “now”. These improvements “will be delivered in the 2030s”. That could be as much as 14 years away which, in my book, doesn’t equate to “now”.
And with new trains to replace the ageing trains that Northern needs to get rid of.