The Chancellor Phillip Hammond has today announced £300m funding to improve rail links between cities in northern England. In response, Andrew Carter, Chief Executive of the think tank Centre for Cities, said:
“Connections between big northern cities like Manchester and Leeds are among the slowest in the UK, so this investment is overdue. The Chancellor’s announcement is also welcome confirmation of the Government’s continued commitment to the Northern Powerhouse initiative, and demonstrates the increasing influence of the northern metro mayors, who have helped to put this issue at the top of the national political agenda.
“However, to make the most of improved train links, it is crucial that national and local leaders also focus on strengthening transport within cities like Manchester and Leeds, and boosting the skills levels of people living in these places. Taking these steps will be critical in ensuring that this transport investment can have the biggest possible impact in raising growth and prosperity in northern cities.”
