York is to benefit from a huge rail investment programme in the north of England.
The new Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) plan aims to bring in faster, frequent and reliable trains across Yorkshire.
It’s part of the government’s new growth plan for the North. However it’s a long-term vision – nothing will change in our area until after the next election.
The first phase will prioritise upgrades and electrification between Leeds-York, Leeds-Sheffield and Leeds-Bradford, set to be delivered in the 2030s.
With £1.1 billion to progress planning and development work as soon as possible, plans include improvements for York, Leeds and Sheffield stations – which a government spokesperson said would support “significant regeneration plans to unlock tens of thousands of homes and jobs”.
A second phase of NPR would involve a new route between Liverpool and Manchester via Manchester airport and Warrington, using a combination of new and existing lines.
The third and final phase involved better connections eastwards from Manchester to Leeds, Bradford, Sheffield and York.
As much as £45 billion could be invested in the project.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: “Over and over again, people in northern communities, from Liverpool and Manchester to York and Newcastle have been let down by broken promises.
“This cycle has to end. No more paying lip service to the potential of the North, but backing it to the hilt.
“That’s why this Government is rolling up its sleeves to deliver real, lasting change for millions of people through Northern Powerhouse Rail: a major new rail network across the North that will deliver faster, more frequent services.”
The NPR plans build on the £11bn Transpennine Route Upgrade, between York and Manchester, via Leeds and Huddersfield.
It says the investment will boost northern cities, including “York’s thriving and dynamic cultural and visitor economy”.
The rail upgrade is part of a bigger plan for the North to be published in the Spring. This will include plans for a northern growth corridor from Liverpool to York via West and South Yorkshire.
Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said: “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.”
