Today in parliament, Transport Minister Andrew Stephenson MP announced commitment of £137 million for infrastructure enhancement works on the Hope Valley rail line, which runs between Sheffield and Manchester.
Transport for the North has repeatedly made the case for the project on behalf of the region’s civic and business leaders.
David Hoggarth, Strategic Rail Director at Transport for the North, said: “This money will help remove some of the key rail bottlenecks on the line by providing two vital ‘freight passing loops’ and a second line through Dore and Totley station. It will mark a major step forward towards being able to provide an additional fast train on this route.
“This line has suffered for years with slower trains holding up faster ones, leading to cancellations, delays, and unreliable services for passengers. It currently has some of the slowest train speeds on the North’s rail network, meaning people often resort to travelling by car.
“It’s great news that investment will now go into this vital commuter corridor, whilst longer-term upgrades as part of Northern Powerhouse Rail are finalised.”
Transport for the North’s latest statutory advice to Government also calls for longer-term, significant investment in the Hope Valley corridor as part of the Northern Powerhouse Rail network. This would eventually speed up journey times and increase frequency.
Northern Powerhouse Rail is expected to feature in the Government’s Integrated Rail Plan, anticipated to publish in the spring.