A unified voice
Transport for the North is urged to speak with one “strong, unified voice” as it develops its role as a sub-national transport body.
RAIL Minister Jo Johnson has urged Transport for the North and its partner organisations to speak with one “strong, unified voice”, as TfN begins the journey to establish itself as the UK’s first sub-national transport body.
Johnson delivered his message to the leaders of northern England’s 19 local and combined authorities, plus representatives from Network Rail, HS2 Ltd and Highways England.
They had gathered in Liverpool on April 5, for the first meeting of the TfN Partnership Board since Transport for the North acquired statutory status on April 1.
Under a range of newly devolved legal powers, TfN’s recommendations must now be formally considered by government. It has also been granted authority to deliver smart ticketing programmes, decide on capital grants, and implement a Strategic Transport Plan.
Backed by £260 million government funding, TfN is also now jointly responsible with the Department for Transport for managing the Northern and TransPennine Express franchises.
Johnson also visited Liverpool Lime Street, to view progress on signalling and platform upgrades that are being delivered as part of NR’s £1 billion Great North Rail Project.
“Establishing Transport for the North is a crucial next step in giving the North greater influence than ever over transport investment,” he said.
“It is imperative that the North now speaks with a strong, unified voice to identify where we can work together to transform journeys for people.
“The fantastic progress on upgrades to Liverpool Lime Street, which will enable more trains every hour and direct services to Scotland, demonstrates our unwavering commitment to delivering the transport links the North needs.
“With significant new powers to drive forward transformative projects like Northern Powerhouse Rail and smart ticketing, I am confident that TfN will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of northern transport.”
TfN Chairman John Cridland added: “The scale of opportunity and ambition cannot be understated. For the first time, recommendations on what and where investment is needed will be agreed by the people that live and work in the North, allowing us to speak with a united voice to central government.
“It’s a watershed moment for devolution, and a once-in-ageneration opportunity to deliver significant improvements in the North’s transport network.
“Our Strategic Transport Plan will set the blueprint for transport infrastructure improvements across the next 30 years, and allow us to make a strong and consistent case to Government for sustained investment in the North.”