Transport boosts UK economy & society
The Mayor of Greater Manchester and Liverpool City Region have joined forces to announce the creation of a new rail board aimed at enhancing the economic and social advantages of a proposed railway connecting the two regions.
Following the cancellation of the northern legs of HS2, the high-speed rail link between Liverpool and Manchester is set to bolster connectivity between the two major northern cities, as well as the Investment Zones in Liverpool. The project will also introduce new stations at Warrington Bank Quay, Manchester Airport, and Manchester Piccadilly.
The Liverpool-Manchester Railway Board is committed to fostering a place-based, bottom-up approach to the transport link, thereby amplifying the economy. The board will be helmed by the two mayors, with Cllrs Bev Craig and Liam Robinson (leaders of the two city councils) as vice-chairs. Additionally, representatives from the local authorities along the proposed route, the Port of Liverpool, Manchester Airports Group, and other stakeholders will sit on the board.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, remarked, “Our region was the birthplace of the world’s first inter-city railway; however, our current rail network has suffered from years of neglect. The economic prospects along the line are substantial, with Investment Zones in both city-regions and numerous major development sites. To fully unlock the North West’s potential, improved rail connectivity is essential.
“Advocating for our preferred options, including a new underground station at Piccadilly, we have succeeded in convincing the government of the merits of our vision. The establishment of this new Board will enable us to expedite these plans and seize a unique opportunity to construct the railway the North truly requires.”
Tasks for the board will encompass liaising with the government and private sector to strengthen the business case for the railway line.
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of Liverpool City Region, added, “From the pioneering passenger railway powered by Stephenson’s Rocket to the iconic Dockers’ Umbrella, our region has been at the vanguard of railway innovation for centuries. Regrettably, infrastructure in various Northern regions resembles a bygone era, stifling growth and hindering the national economy.
“The transformative investment in enhanced rail connectivity between our city regions is not merely a regional endeavor; it holds significance at a national level. This vital infrastructure project has the potential to unleash the North’s vast capabilities and provide substantial returns to the Treasury.
“We call upon the skilled and dedicated leaders from across the North in business, infrastructure, and various sectors to lend their expertise. Join us in delivering the same revolutionary impact that the Liverpool Manchester Railway had two centuries ago.”
Image credit: iStock and Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
