TfN sets out infrastructure pipeline proposal to create 20,000 jobs across the North of England

Transport for the North (TfN) has set out initial plans for a Northern Infrastructure Pipeline, a 30-year investment plan of transport projects in the North of England.

The £5 billion proposal includes road, rail, active travel and technological upgrades to infrastructure, some of which could be started within six to 18 months, to help ‘build back better’ following the impact of Covid-19 as well as underpin greener economic growth and create 20,000 construction and design jobs in the region. Longer term schemes include accelerating the East-West Northern Powerhouse Rail, and accelerating a transition to hydrogen and battery-powered trains.

Short term schemes outlined for Greater Manchester include accessibility improvements to the local rail network, electrical vehicle and active travel infrastructure and smart ticketing technology for Metrolink.

Barry White, Chief Executive at Transport for the North, said:  

Our focus must be on rebuilding the North’s economy, which was already at an economic disadvantage to the South before COVID-19 hit. Our Economic Recovery Plan outlines quick-fire ways to rapidly invest in shovel-ready infrastructure projects and initiatives, helping rebuild and transform the North over the next few years. 

“We believe that’ll not only deliver an economic prize, to the tune of 20,000 jobs and a return of £3 for every £1 spent but – more importantly – a social return. It’ll help better connect communities, slash carbon emissions from transport in the North and support people in living healthier lives. 

“Crucially, these aren’t new or over-ambitious asks. They’re projects already in the system that now need the starting gun firing or a bit of work to nudge them across the line. We have welcomed the Government’s ambition to accelerate projects and this is a great opportunity for its recently formed Northern Transport Acceleration Council to drive forward the delivery of projects. This sets up a great combination – Transport for the North using its local knowledge to identify projects and Government using its political heft to push forward delivery.

“The Economic Recovery Plan, and the Northern Infrastructure Pipeline within it, is aimed at how we rebuild and transform the North. It shows Northern leaders coming together at a time of national crisis and putting a united, pragmatic plan to our partners in Government, outlining some of the priority projects and when they could be delivered with the right will and collaboration.” 

TfN’s proposals have been submitted to the Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps, for consideration.

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester

TfN’s Northern Infrastructure Pipeline is an essential part of securing the North’s economic recovery after the pandemic is over.

“It is also a vital first step in addressing the legacy of the historic under-investment in transport infrastructure across the North.

“I call on the Government to take these proposals seriously and to work with us to deliver on the ambitions in this plan so we rebuild and transform the North for future generations to come.”