- Allow more trains to run on the West Coast Main Line;
- Relieve traffic pressure along the arterial M62 corridor;
- Keep our regional seaports competitive by allowing easier freight access to international markets;
- Faster, more frequent journeys between neighbouring city regions like Liverpool and Manchester;
- More sustainable travel to Manchester Airport;
Unlocking the Northern Hub will create capacity for 700 more trains every day, carrying 3.5 million passengers annually and liberating the potential for future growth of our regional economy.
“A current study by Greater Manchester Integrated Transport Authority says the Northern Hub proposals could bring 23,000 jobs to our region, with the project benefitting the Northern economy by as much as £2.1 billion by 2021.
“The North West relies on rail to get people to work and move goods across the region. Demand is still growing with 44% more passenger journeys forecast to be made every day between Manchester and Liverpool by 2018, while across the country freight is set to grow by 30% in the next decade,” said Mr Butler.
“With the railway nearly full, it is vital we build the infrastructure to run more trains every year,” he added.
“Delaying or shelving the scheme will force travellers off trains and into cars, driving up our carbon footprint and affecting UK emissions targets. Furthermore, it will stifle economic growth and impact on our quality of life,” said Mr Butler.