Representatives from five cities in the North of England (Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle and Sheffield) are calling for a £15bn 15-year plan to be adopted to improve transport that will improve connectivity and re-balance economic growth in the UK.

The One North report says a 125mph trans-Pennine rail link, a faster link to Newcastle and better access to Manchester Airport are needed.

The report outlines why transport and logistics are a top priority for the north, and by 2030 proposes:
•    A new tunnelled trans-Pennine route at 125mph
•    A fast and frequent intercity rail network joining up the cities, including a faster link to Newcastle and Manchester airports
•    Improving regional rail networks to allow additional capacity and electrification of existing lines
•    Increasing East/West rail freight capability across the Pennines
•    Improving road networks and access to ports
•    The moves would work with the existing HS2 scheme for the North

CIHT believe that a fully functioning integrated transport network is a vital cornerstone of a prosperous economy and is key to the successful economic growth and social development across the UK.

To download the report:  http://www.manchester.gov.uk/downloads/download/5969/one_north