Transport for the North (TfN) have published their new 2020-21 business plan which outlines the essential role transport investment will play in levelling up the North of England, building back from the pandemic and meeting the green agenda.
The new TfN plan outlines how civic and business leaders will support the renewal and recovery of the region over the next 12 months through transport infrastructure investment.
These are anticipated to help support the deliver of, by 2050, around a £100bn increase in gross value added (GVA) and 850,000 additional jobs.
Outlined in the report are a number of ways that strategic investment in transport can aid Covid-19 recovery and levelling up, as well as support the delivery of sustainable and inclusive growth to allow the UK to meet economic and green objectives.
The plan has been designed to firmly embody the four key aims of the Northern Transport Charter:
- Put passengers at the heart of the railways
- Lead Northern strategic scheme planning and delivery
- Manage a long-term Northern funding settlement
- Champion an inclusive and sustainable North
Transport decarbonisation and accessibility, delivery of an adaptable and resilient network and the importance of supporting the needs of the UK freight and logistics sector have all been highlighted in the report.
Tim Wood, Acting Chief Executive at Transport for the North, said: “The past 12 months have been incredibly challenging, with the Covid-19 pandemic highlighting the importance of our transport network and the urgent need to invest in it.
“As we look to the year ahead and beyond, our transport needs will continue to change, but one thing remains – we must have continued investment in road, rail, and active and smart travel schemes to support the people and businesses of the North in achieving their ambitions.
Read the full Business Plan released by TfN here
“This is a bold and ambitious plan that will drive forward our shared mission and lay the foundations for a transport network that meets our region’s needs for generations to come.
“In the next 12 months we will be pushing ahead at pace with our vital work, including the Strategic Outline Case for Northern Powerhouse Rail, our decarbonisation and freight strategies, and further analysis on the benefits of our Investment Programme.
“Now is not the time to scale back support for our region, and we look forward to working with our leaders and Government to realise our vison for the North of England – where modern transport connections drive sustainable economic growth and support an excellent quality of life.”
Tim Wood joins us as evening keynote speaker at TCR North on November 11, 2021, at the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel in Manchester. Join us for a full day event uniting rail industry leaders and decision makers.
