THE York to Harrogate railway line is a top priority for improvements, according to a new report by MPs.

The Electrification Task Force, which was chaired by Harrogate MP Andrew Jones, has put both the York-Harrogate-Leeds line and the Selby to Hull line in a list of 12 "top tier" priorities for electrification.

Its final report, out today, said converting the lines could help deliver greater economic growth for the "Northern Powerhouse".

York's Cllr David Levene, cabinet member for transport, said the City of York Council welcomed news the York line would be taken to the next stage for rail investment between 2019 and 2024.

He added: “City of York councillors recently sent a letter to the Secretary of State supporting the electrification of the York – Harrogate – Leeds railway line. The inclusion of the Northallerton - Middlesbrough route and Selby to Hull is further good news for rail services around York.”

MP Mr Jones said: "Electrification brings many benefits – more trains, faster services, better rolling stock. It will be a step change in our local transport infrastructure and the recommendations of the taskforce are an enormous leap forward in the campaign for local electrification.

"The business case we put forward to the taskforce showed a good cost-benefit ratio for the electrification of the line. That business case was supported by councils of all political persuasions and a wide range of other interested parties. It was a real team effort by the north and it has got great results for the north."