We’ve launched a bold plan for the North to renew and recover in the year ahead.
Our Business Plan for 2021/22 sets out how, in providing one voice for the North, TfN will make transport in the North sustainable and inclusive, and grow the region’s economy.
It details how delivering on our 30-year blueprint for investment in our infrastructure will be central to the national mission to level-up the UK and build back better than what has come before.
A year of renewal and recovery
Every aspect of our work this year will be aimed at delivering our organisational mission and making the North a better place to live and work, as the nation recovers from the shockwave of Covid-19.
Representing the North’s political and business leaders, we’ll work to the priorities they’ve identified in the Northern Transport Charter to:
Put passengers at the heart of the railways
Lead Northern strategic scheme planning and delivery
We have an ambitious programme of work ahead of us and will continue to speak with one voice on the transport investment our region’s people and businesses need.
Our role and mission remain critical for our region as part of the levelling up agenda and to help build back better and greener from the pandemic.
Our mission
Our vision remains resolute, one of a thriving North of England where world-class transport supports sustainable economic growth, excellent quality of life and improved opportunities.
Our vision and objectives are entirely in step and supportive of the levelling-up agenda, with transformational infrastructure investment widely accepted as a cornerstone in closing the economic and productivity divide.
Our key activities this year will include:
Rebuilding rail passenger numbers in the north as Covid restrictions are lifted.
Working with train operators, DfT and Network Rail to get clarity on future rail investment while improving reliability on the railway given the historic infrastructure constraints.
Completing and submitting the Strategic Outline Case for Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR), following the publication of the Government’s Integrated Rail Plan.
Agreeing with DfT the governance for NPR as it moves into the next phase of development.
Pursuing the Economic Recovery Plan with DfT’s Acceleration Unit.
Carrying out the Investment Programme Benefits Analysis, assessing how investment affects inclusivity and sustainability as well as economic activity.
Consulting on and completing our Decarbonisation Strategy ready for publication before COP26.
Finalising the North of England’s first Freight and Logistics Strategy, setting out the key investments in road and rail required to support a strong and growing freight and logistics sector in the North.
A roadmap for the future
Approval of the Strategic Transport Plan saw Transport for the North fulfil one of our key functions under our statutory powers, marking a pivotal moment for our region and paving the way for other STBs to set out their plans.
Building on the STP as a strong foundation, we’re now embarking on the next chapter with the Northern Transport Charter, a roadmap towards long-term devolution based on the North’s priorities.
