Transport for the North projects awaiting “the starting gun”
Transport for the North says its £5 billion infrastructure pipeline could be accelerated with government investment, with schemes categorised as being delivered within 18 months, started within four years, or where investment could support jobs and boost confidence.
In a statement on August 11, TfN Chief Executive Barry White said the body’s economic recovery plan outlines “quickfire ways” to invest in shovel-ready schemes.
He added: “They are 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.”
Rail schemes that could be delivered within 18 months include contactless ticketing at all rail stations and on light rail and metro networks in northern England, rail and highway improvements worth around £850 million, and expanding TfN’s real-time data hub.
There is little detail contained in the latest board papers on schemes that could start within four years, but TfN highlights £2.5bn worth of locally promoted schemes in an existing industry process, which includes the Rail Network Enhancements Pipeline and schemes waiting on government decisions.
Schemes in the final category (creation of jobs and confidence) include speeding development work on Northern Powerhouse Rail, including provision of the Dearne Valley station and improvements at Doncaster and Rotherham stations, better rail freight connections, and accelerating work on reconnecting communities to the rail network.