Britain's new Chancellor has announced a major boost for Greater Manchester's railway network. Rachel Reeves is delivering Labour's first Budget in more than 14 years this afternoon (October 30).
It includes plans for pay increases and changes to tax, as well as investments to infrastructure across the country. As part of her Budget, Ms Reeves confirmed funding for several railway projects, including three in Greater Manchester. "The last government made a number of promises on transport but it failed to fund them," she said. "Working with my right honourable friend, the transport secretary, I am changing that." READ MORE: Budget 2024 LIVE as Rachel Reeves announces changes to tax and public spending Ms Reeves confirmed funding to 'secure the delivery' of the TransPennine Upgrade between York and Manchester.
She said this would ensure 'fully electric local and regional services' between Manchester and Stalybridge 'by the end of this year', plus work to electrify the line near York by 2026.
Ms Reeves told MPs this would 'help grow our economy across the North of England, with faster and more reliable services'. She also confirmed funding to improve capacity at Manchester Victoria, and to electrify the Wigan to Bolton line.