Responding to the Government’s announcement on Northern Powerhouse Rail and the launch of its Northern Growth Strategy, Cllr Louise Gittins, Chair of the Local Government Association, said:
“Transport infrastructure is absolutely vital for unlocking growth, and strong, well-planned networks are the backbone of inclusive, sustainable, and thriving local economies. They connect people and businesses to new opportunities, driving investment and prosperity across our communities.
“Today's announcements are therefore very positive for local authorities in the North. To ensure this major investment maximises the potential for economic expansion in the region, councils in the North stand ready to work closely with central government, Mayors, and regional partners to deliver these opportunities for local communities. The Government must now pull out all levers to see this through to delivery.
“This announcement builds on recently published LGA-commissioned research, which underlines the pivotal role councils play in driving inclusive growth and reveals there is £276 billion of untapped local economic opportunity, ready to be unlocked by tackling local barriers and investing in stronger, place-based strategies.”