The programme includes upgrades to bridges, tunnels, tracks, junctions and signalling.

 

Speaking at a conference in Leeds, Chris Grayling said: “I want to realise passenger benefits from the £3Bn we have ringfenced for the Pennine route as fast as possible.

 

“Network Rail has already begun detailed designs, and provided us with options for the Transpennine Route Upgrade to meet the objectives we’ve set out – for journey times, capacity and reliability.

 

“That, in turn, has given us an opportunity to undertake the work in phases starting as soon as spring next year.”

 

He added that he would be working with local authorities along the Transpennine route to discuss how to maximise the benefits of the investment, such as by creating new stations and finding opportunities for housing development.

 

Also at the conference, which focused on the Northern Powerhouse, the Transport Secretary announced that London’s proposed Crossrail 2 scheme is to go through an Independent Affordability Review.

 

The review, commissioned by the Department for Transport and Transport for London, will look to ensure Crossrail 2 demonstrates value for money and that those who stand to benefit from the project contribute to funding it. The review will be chaired by former Thames Tideway Tunnel managing director Mike Gerrard, and is expected to conclude this summer.