Following the release of the IPPR North report; ‘Quick Wins for the North’s Transport Network’, our Chief Executive Barry White outlines our response.
“Politicians and business leaders in the North are united in their goal to secure more investment in better transport links, helping re-balance the UK’s economy and ensuring our communities thrive for decades to come. Together, they’ve agreed a credible plan and clear pipeline of investment that spans the short, medium and long term. That’s new infrastructure and improvements already being delivered today, as well as schemes still to be developed.
“The IPPR North report helps give voice to the momentum behind the Plan and recognises the work of our members to champion projects that deliver real benefits for people and businesses, putting it at the top of the North’s growth agenda.
“Our Investment Programme outlines schemes that our evidence establishes should begin before 2027 – we’re pleased that IPPR’s examples of ‘quick wins’ are identified in that Programme.
“There are many other projects that could be underway in the coming years and we’ll be pushing for the Government to support a steady stream of schemes that will better connect our communities. Part of that is securing development funding to get such projects shovel-ready as quickly as possible.
“But it’s not just about infrastructure. Investment and development of new technologies – such as hydrogen trains – should go hand-in-hand. We’ll continue to work with our partners to make sure the North leads the pack on this type of innovation.”
To find out more about our Investment Programme, click here.