In a significant move, the Chancellor has revealed a £15.6 billion investment aimed at enhancing public transport across Northern England—specifically targeting buses, trams, and trains. Major funding allocations will support the expansion of the Metro in the West Midlands, new tram lines in Greater Manchester, and the initiation of a transit system in West Yorkshire, which faced delays. This investment is seen as crucial for improving connectivity, fostering regional economic growth, and addressing historical underinvestment, with local leaders voicing their support for the initiative as a step towards bridging the north-south economic divide.
She said whilst in Rochdale, "Connectivity is an absolutely critical factor in unlocking the potential of towns and cities outside of London. one of the areas in which previous governments have promised most but delivered least, and that will now change."
The Chancellor said the UK "cannot rely on a handful of places forging ahead of the rest of the UK," as underinvestment is holding the country back.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said this is the "best news of the day," as the will now close the "north-south divide" for economic growth.
He added, "The levelling up that was once promised is now happening here."
Collection
[
|
...
]