The government has once again delayed releasing details of its plans for Northern Powerhouse Rail. An announcement on the long-awaited rail project has been expected for months but each time it has been postponed.
Commenting on the further delay, Chris Fletcher, Policy Director at Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, said: “This delay will infuriate a good many people across the north of England who had been expecting some positive news on the government’s plans for this vital rail scheme. Yet again we have seen a British Government completely fail in its duty to invest in strategic infrastructure and put a huge brake on economic growth at a time when it is vitally needed.
“The Chancellor was very pleased back in June when she announced plans for NPR would be revealed ‘in the coming weeks’ during her Spending Review speech. Yet here we are now 3 months on, no nearer hearing anything and everything being left up in the air, again. For more times than anyone can remember the north is left with delays, excuses and frustration when it comes to its transport network. It is, of course, right that costs are controlled but this constant stop start dithering just creates an atmosphere of complete distrust and despondency in our national politicians and makes a mockery of any plans the government says it has to boost growth.”