Project details
Portfolio: Transport
Project status: Ongoing
Key contact: Rachelle Forsyth-Ward
Key contact email: Rachelle.ForsythWard@northeast-ca.gov.uk
Page last updated 03-11-2026
The Rail Vision is guided by a clear vision statement: "A railway that truly benefits our people, powering opportunity across the North East as part of the Angel Network and seamlessly connected to national services. Delivering safe, reliable, accessible and affordable travel that works for everyone."
Our vision for rail is based on six clear principles: by 2040, rail should be affordable, opportunity-enabling, people-focused, integrated, inclusive, and green.
The Vision also calls for:
- simpler and more affordable fares
- more frequent and reliable services
- safer, modern and accessible stations and trains
- better connections within the region and to the rest of the country
To support delivery, the Rail Vision also contains a phased roadmap outlining key priorities to 2040.
The Rail Vision was developed in close collaboration with the rail industry and with other key stakeholders. It provides a basis for future discussions with Great British Railways (GBR) and rail industry partners, making sure that future investment in rail supports the MSA's wider priorities and delivers benefits that can be seen and felt by local people, communities and businesses.
