Prime Minister Announces £415m Boost For Transpennine Route Upgrade

This new investment is set to drive further progress in the TRU programme, which is already generating substantial social and economic benefits for the region. The programme is creating thousands of jobs and hundreds of apprenticeships, while local businesses benefit from supply chain opportunities. Additionally, the shift towards greener transport will cut carbon emissions by up to 87,000 tonnes annually.

James Richardson, Managing Director of Transpennine Route Upgrade, said: "The government’s continued support for TRU is a clear vote of confidence in the work we are doing, which is an enabler to releasing the economic potential of the North. This funding supports our onward journey to be truly transformational, delivering faster, more reliable rail services that connect people to jobs, education, and leisure opportunities.

"By improving connectivity and increasing capacity, we are not only enhancing journeys for customers but also helping to drive up investment supporting more housing and more jobs and boosting productivity across the region."

The TRU programme is set to deliver the following improvements:

• More frequent services – Up to six fast trains per hour between Leeds and Manchester, with enhanced local stopping services.

• Faster journeys – Reduced travel times, including Manchester to York in just 63 minutes and Manchester to Leeds in 41 minutes.

• Greener travel – Full route electrification, reducing reliance on diesel and supporting Net Zero ambitions.

• Improved stations – Enhancements at key stations to provide better travel experiences and increased accessibility.

• More freight capacity – Enabling up to 15 additional freight trains per day, removing over 1,000 lorries from the roads.

With this latest funding announcement, the TRU programme has now secured £7.3 billion in approved funding, bringing the project closer to delivering a modern, high-performing railway that strengthens connectivity across the North. By improving capacity, reliability, and sustainability, the programme is set to transform rail travel, benefiting passengers and bolstering the region’s economic future.