TRANSPORT chiefs have set out ambitious plans that could transform rail and road across the north - but say more money needs to be put in if they are to come to fruition.
Journey times between major cities could be slashed significantly if investment is found expensive overhauls and new lines, a Government report shows.
Transport for the North has published its first annual report, recommending building and upgrades to the north's rail network that would cut trans-pennine travel times by as much as half; and suggested improvements to the A66 to make an east-west alternative to the M62.
On the rail plans, which include a push for a major upgrade to the Newcastle to Leeds line through York, much more investment is needed, the report says.
"We need to go further than committed investments in the existing routes to achieve the vision for faster journeys and more frequent services."
The recommendations also push for new lines to link Liverpool and Manchester with the new HS2 lines; and say that Leeds to Manchester train journey times could come down to just 30 minutes.
Unveiling the report in Gateshead, the Harrogate MP and transport minister Andrew Jones said: "This report and our huge investment in transport in the north demonstrate this government’s commitment to the Northern Powerhouse.
"From smart motorways and rail franchising to potentially revolutionary future projects including Smart North and Northern Powerhouse rail, our work is delivering easier and swifter journeys for passengers, and supporting jobs and growth across the region."
It has met a cautious welcome from transport campaigners, who say that nothing should not get in the way of crucial public transport improvements.
Stephen Joseph, Chief Executive of the Campaign for Better Transport, said: "This Northern Transport Strategy report is a good start, and its recognition that the key to growth in the North is 'efficient and affordable public transport' and alternatives to car commuting is especially welcome.
"But this needs to be carried through to future roads investment, which should move from big unaffordable grand projects like the Trans-Pennine tunnel to making better and smarter use of existing roads.
"Users and communities across the North need good high quality alternatives to car travel, not old-style road plans and the car-based development they bring"
