Improving UK Transport in the North: Alternatives to HS2 Cancellation
The UK government’s current approach to the North’s transport infrastructure is problematic at best. While they claim to have redirected funds from the cancelled HS2 project to improve road conditions in London, the reality is far more concerning.
Disappointing Pledges and Unrealistic Aims
The UK government’s position can be summarized in their statements about resurfacing roads and covering council revenue gaps. Unfortunately, their plan involves using 8.3 billion pounds, which is spread over 320 London boroughs, amounting to just ￡7 million per borough. This is insufficient and does not address the underlying issues in Northern England.
The Urgency of Train Reliability and Services
The reliability and punctuality of train services in Northern England have been poorly managed. Passengers, including myself, know all too well the frustration of delayed and cancelled services provided by Northern Rail and Transpennine Express. The shoddy service provision and overcrowding that have been reported are real and persistent issues.
Trams and Metro Networks for Northern Cities
France’s cities with populations over 150,000 have benefited from tram networks or metro systems. The UK government can replicate this success in the North by introducing trams in Leeds, Hull, York, and Doncaster. These systems would not only improve services but also contribute to the UK’s net-zero climate change goals.
Electrification and Road Repair
Electrifying key rail lines is another essential move. The UK government should focus on electrifying lines such as Sheffield - Rotherham - Wakefield Westgate, Sheffield - Barnsley - Wakefield Kirkgate, Leeds - Bradford Interchange - Halifax - Manchester, Manchester - Sheffield - Doncaster - Hull, and Leeds - Selby - Hull. Additionally, significant road repairs are needed, particularly between Sheffield and Manchester, where the A57 main road is in a state of disrepair.
Reviving Bus Routes and Bus Franchising
The current X57 bus service between Sheffield and Manchester was withdrawn in January 2022. The UK government can revive this service and support bus franchising in West Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, and the North Yorkshire-York combined authority. Local politicians can take control over bus services, setting fares, collecting ticket sales, and providing unified timetables and passenger offers.
Accelerating Transpennine Trunk Route Upgrades
The Transpennine trunk route upgrade between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds, and York will currently be completed in 2033. However, with the right funding and prioritization, this completion date can be brought forward to 2030. This upgrade would further enhance connectivity in the Northern regions and reduce travel times, benefiting both commuters and businesses.
While the cancellation of HS2 is a significant setback, these alternative solutions can help improve the North’s transport infrastructure. The UK government must take a more proactive and comprehensive approach to address the challenges facing Northern England’s transportation network.