Northern leaders meet to discuss ways of unlocking the economic potential of Hull and the wider region.
Transport for the North’s (TfN) Chief Executive Martin Tugwell visited Hull on Thursday 3 February to set out how TfN’s Northern Transport Charter (NTC) can help unlock the city’s economic potential, and in particular the key role that investment in its transport system can have.
The visit will begin at Hull Paragon Interchange train station where Martin will meet with local political and business leaders to hear first-hand their views on the opportunities across the city’s transport network and how TfN can support them in making the case for the investment that will support local residents and businesses.
There will be a visit to the Myton Underpass to view the plans and progress on the work on the A63 Castle Street project, which will relieve congestion and improve connections between the city centre and the tourist and recreational facilities.
Further discussion will also take place on how TfN can support Hull with its goal of being carbon-neutral by 2030 and, on the need to continue to press for improved connectivity with the rest of the North in support of the economy.
TfN’s newly appointed Chair, Lord Patrick McLoughlin, will also join Martin in Hull to meet with leaders in the region, including the Lord Mayor-Cllr Lynn Petrini.
Martin Tugwell, Chief Executive of Transport for the North, said:
“Hull has seen under-investment in its transport system for too long. As a global gateway to the UK, now with Freeport status, Hull’s ambition, enterprise and aspiration needs to be supported if we are to see levelling up in action.
“I’ve seen first-hand what can be done in Hull when it is given the opportunity. The works to the A63 which will improve access to the port, relieve congestion and integrate active travel networks is just one example of the type of transport investment needed to support growth and enhance connectivity.
“Like many in Hull, we were disappointed that the published Integrated Rail Plan does not include specific proposals for Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire, however we remain committed to working with the area’s political and business leaders to make the case for the investment that will help support Hull’s ambition.
“Our Northern Transport Charter sets out our offer to Government that shows by strengthening our collaboration we can unlock the economic potential of Hull and the wider North.”
Councillor Daren Hale, leader of Hull City Council, said:
“The North of England has experienced prolonged underinvestment over many years, and the contribution that Hull could make has been discounted for too long.
“The city has much to offer but there must be a process of levelling up and investing in the North to enable the economic potential of the city to be realised.
“Working as a strategic partner alongside Transport for the North provides us with greater opportunity to secure future transport investment, deliver an integrated transport network that is fit for purpose and meet the challenges that face us and every other major town and city.”
Launched at TfN’s Annual Conference last September, the Northern Transport Charter (NTC) sets out a road map towards further long-term devolution to the North of transport related powers.
These proposals are grouped around four key ambitions:
The Charter sets out how the people living and working in the North of England, as represented by the business and political leaders on the TfN Board are best placed to know what is in the long-term interests of the region.
At its heart, the charter sets out evidence-based arguments for devolution to the regional level of long-term strategic transport investment funding and decision-making powers. It is not in itself primarily an argument for increased investment, but rather makes the case for empowering the North’s Leaders to exercise strategic leadership and ensure investment reflects the North’s agreed priorities. Find out more by clicking below