Views sought for future of railways

The Department for Transport is consulting on what improvements need to be made to northern networks as it prepares to invest £1bn into the region.

The consultation will conclude on August 18 and focuses on Northern Rail and Transpennine Express services.

Rail minister Stephen Hammond said: “Rail travel across the north will be transformed over the next five years thanks to £1 billion of government investment.

“That means more seats, improved connections and better journeys for millions of passengers travelling across this region.

“To make sure we make the most of this investment and deliver a railway that is truly world class and boosts our economy, it is vital that we hear the views of the people who use these services. This is further proof of our commitment to put passengers at the heart of our railways.”

The Department for Transport said the investment would pave the way for 700 additional trains a day and 44 million additional passengers a year.

It will include the electrification of certain lines.

It said the consultation will look at ways to reduce crowding, provide faster and more frequent services, deliver a more efficient network and improve customer services.

Rail travel in the north of England grew by 66 per cent 2002-2012.

The consultation document can be found on the Department for Transport’s website at www.gov.uk/dft.