At Transport for the North (TfN), we continue to build the evidence base and enable delivery of schemes and projects that will improve connectivity for the North.
An effective transport network is fundamental for the North’s economy, connecting people to jobs, leisure, health and education, as well as enabling the efficient movement of goods and services.
For far too long the transport offering in the North has been inadequate. A disjointed transport network that does not provide value for money to commuters. A system that means there is an over reliance on the car and a railway network that does not deliver what it should in the modern world.
Securing commitment for the aspirations of our region is pivotal to boosting connectivity. This means collaboration at all levels to ensure the North can speak with one voice on the pan-regional investment needs and priorities that will deliver better connectivity for people and places.
Last month, Cllr Martin Gannon, Chair of North East Joint Transport Committee and Leader of Gateshead Council met with Lord Mcloughlin, Transport for the North Chair, Martin Tugwell, Chief Executive at Transport for the North, Katie Day, Strategy, Analysis and Communication Director and James Mills, Head of Stakeholder and Engagement, during a visit to the North East. The group saw first-hand some of the key transport projects in the region, and importantly, to talk to stakeholders and local leaders.
They all also had discussions with Tobyn Hughes, Managing Director of Transport North East, Philip Meikle, Transport Strategy Director, Transport North East, and Rachelle Forsyth-Ward, Interim Assistant Transport Strategy Director.
The North East is home to over two million people living in a range of vibrant urban and rural communities. The region has a rich history and prides itself on being home to positive people who strive to drive the country forward. However, the North East has seen drastically lower levels of transport investment per head than many other areas of the country.
During the visit, the TfN team met with members of the Joint Transport Committee to hear first-hand about the transport challenges their communities face, and the huge economic and social opportunities that are on offer in the area.
Commenting on the visit, Katie Day said: “Transport is critically important to the future success of the North. The visit was about transforming connectivity in the North East to realise its untapped economic potential and increase opportunities for all.”
“It was great see – especially with the snowy backdrop – the opportunity to increase capacity on our rail network, for passengers and freight, if we could reopen the Leamside Line. And in South Shields how the new Metro trains – currently being tested and commissioned – will enable better accessibility for more passengers across the network.
“Well-coordinated transport investment can foster social mobility and lead to better economic performance for the benefit of the region’s communities and businesses. By working together, we can align the policies needed in places for people, to deliver economic, social and environmental outcomes. We can and we will transform the North.”