Policy changes stall progress
CHANGES IN direction and a lack of continuity caused by the changing political and economic climate are holding back the bodies responsible for transforming the nation’s railways, northern leaders have warned.
The Northern Rail Industry Leaders (NRIL), a group of more 150 rail businesses in the North, has set out how Transport for the North can embrace innovation to deliver improvements.
But their report comes as TfN prepares to close its £150m smart ticketing programme designed to create a London-style “pay as you go” transport system after the Department for Transport (DfT) slashed the organisation’s funding.
The NRIL report, published in February, sets out how “innovation can be a key driver of Transport for the North’s vision for a thriving North of England that is underpinned by a world class transport system”.
It describes a broader “skills and talent” challenge faced by the industry, and also notes: “UK rail has long been susceptible to a lack of continuity, fragmentation, and frequent changes in direction.
“This, driven by economic and political cycles, has created an environment in which organisations struggle to commit resources and undertake long term planning. This can block investment in areas of research, technology, and innovation.
“The lack of a consistent rolling programme causes a loss of momentum and expertise, with those working within rail to look for more secure employment options.”
Among its recommendations are defining a funding strategy for TfN and developing a plan to harness the inherent capability of northern small businesses, consultants and universities.
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