Responding to the Government's announcement of a new Northern Powerhouse Rail transport investment, Chair of The Great North, North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said:
“Today’s announcement sends a message loud and clear about the huge economic potential of the North of England, and is a major boost to our people, places and businesses.
"This is about more than new rail lines – it’s about backing the North’s future. It sends a clear signal to investors that the North is serious about growth, and lays the foundations for a world-class rail network that can power productivity, jobs and opportunity for decades to come.
"Connecting the North from coast to coast, our thriving cities and beautiful countryside and towns in between, we will see a transformation in our rail infrastructure. The North is the birthplace of Britain’s railways - now we will finally see a modern, reliable railway that Northerners can be proud of and deserve.”