The National Infrastructure Commission has launched a consultation on the future rail landscape of the North and the Midlands as part of the Government’s ‘levelling up’ agenda.
Chair of the Commission, Sir John Armitt, said recognised that many local authorities and other organisations would be focusing on the ‘urgent and unprecedented challenge’ of coronavirus.
‘However, given the importance of these transport projects over the longer-term, we were keen to begin background work now. We hope our call for evidence will enable a wide range of people to contribute to the first phase of our analysis, where they are able to do so.
‘If they are done right, these rail projects have the potential to kickstart an integrated transport revolution in the Midlands and the north. It is important that these significant investments create a lasting legacy which benefits commuters and other passengers across the country, and we look forward to receiving input from a wide range of people to help shape that future.’
The Commission’s call for evidence starts it’s work on Rail Needs Assessment which will inform the Government’s integrated rail plan for the Midlands and the North which will put forward proposals for joining up High Speed 2 phase 2b, Northern Powerhouse Rail, Midlands Rail hub and other proposed infrastructure investment.
The consultation will close on 29 May 2020, but the commission has said it will review the deadline date, given the challenges stakeholders are currently facing.
