Barry White, Chief Executive of Transport for the North, said: “We welcome the Union Connectivity Review and the appointment of Sir Peter Hendy to lead it.
“As part of the Government’s levelling-up agenda the review should focus on the ways in which a decades-spanning investment pipeline can boost economic recovery and help our communities prosper.
“Our Strategic Transport Plan for the North sets out how to increase connectivity with both Wales and Scotland in particular – and we’ve been collaborating with decision-makers across the borders to ensure we’re joined-up in our priorities for road, rail, and sea connections.”
“Our work has already identified ways in which our communities can be more prosperous and better served by cross-border infrastructure between now and 2050 – creating more job opportunities and boosting productivity.
“We believe building both HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail in full are a key way to boost connectivity both within our region and across borders with the rest of the UK.
“We’ll be sure to provide a strong Northern voice on behalf of our civic and business leaders into the process and support Sir Peter Hendy in his review.”