In a significant strategic move, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has unveiled a comprehensive plan to redirect the £36 billion originally designated for the HS2 high-speed rail project towards a broad-reaching Network North transport program. This initiative is poised to make a substantial impact on transportation infrastructure throughout the United Kingdom, with an emphasis on enhancing connectivity in various regions. While some critics argue that the plan lacks specific timelines and relies on existing commitments, it represents a major step towards improving the nation's transportation networks.

Regional Allocation

The lion's share of the £36 billion redirected funds is being funneled into the Network North program, with nearly £20 billion dedicated to the Northern regions. Meanwhile, just over £15 billion will be allocated to other parts of the country, ensuring that transportation improvements are not confined to a specific area.

Highlights of Regional Investment

North West:

  • Extensive improvements in connectivity across all six Northern city areas.
  • Establishment of a £2.5 billion fund to revamp local transport in smaller cities and towns.
  • Upgraded Energy Coast Line connecting Carlisle, Workington, and Barrow.
  • Investments in contactless and smart ticketing systems.
  • Substantial funding for road resurfacing and major road projects.
  • Extension of the £2 bus fare until the end of December 2024.

North East:

  • A 75% increase in funding for enhanced connectivity.
  • Dualling of the A1.
  • Investments in contactless and smart ticketing systems.
  • Reopening of train stations and lines.
  • Financial allocations to address road potholes.
  • Extension of the £2 bus fare.

Yorkshire & Humber:

  • Allocation of £2.5 billion for the development of a West Yorkshire mass-transit system.
  • Inclusion of Hull in the Northern Powerhouse Rail network.
  • Electrification and upgrades of vital rail lines.
  • Reopening of train lines and stations.
  • Investments in contactless and smart ticketing systems.
  • Funding for road schemes and pothole repairs.
  • Extension of the £2 bus fare.

West Midlands:

  • Reopening of previously closed Beeching lines.
  • Investments in contactless and smart ticketing systems.
  • Establishment of a fund to transform local transport.
  • Funding for smaller road projects and enhanced bus services.
  • Significant allocation for the repair of road potholes.
  • Extension of the £2 bus fare.

East Midlands:

  • Doubling rail capacity between Leicester and Birmingham.
  • £1.5 billion allocated for the East Midlands City Region Mayor.
  • Reopening of Beeching Line stations.
  • Financial support for the Barrow Hill Line.
  • Investments in contactless and smart ticketing systems.
  • Funding for road schemes and pothole repairs.
  • Extension of the £2 bus fare.

East Anglia:

  • Transformation of Ely Junction.
  • Doubling of train passenger services.
  • Funding for road schemes and pothole repairs.
  • Extension of the £2 bus fare.

South East:

  • Funding to ensure the delivery of road schemes, including the A2 at Brenley Corner.
  • £290 million designated for 14 road projects across the South East.
  • Access to £2.8 billion for addressing road potholes.
  • Launch of a £1 billion fund for new road schemes.
  • Extension of the £2 bus fare.

South West:

  • Funding for enhancing the Exeter to Plymouth rail line's resilience to extreme weather.
  • Restoration of railway lines between Cullompton and Wellington.
  • Construction of a new station at Tavistock, connecting it with Plymouth.
  • £100 million investment in a Mass Transit system for Bristol.
  • Allocation of £140 million for the successful delivery of 12 road schemes.
  • Establishment of an additional £1 billion fund for new road projects.
  • Access to £2.8 billion for road resurfacing to combat potholes.
  • Extension of the £2 bus fare.

Wales:

  • Investment of £1 billion to enhance transport connectivity in North Wales, including electrification of the North Wales Main Line.
  • Anticipated benefits include faster journey times, increased capacity, and improved connectivity across the Union.

Scotland:

  • Reduction of congestion in communities such as Ashington, Felton, Alnwick, and Amble through an upgrade to the A1 coastal route.
  • Resolution of pinch points on the A75 to improve links between Cairnryan ferry terminals and southwest Scotland.
  • Further investments in the M6, Cumbria, and the A77 toward Glasgow.

While critics argue that the plan relies heavily on pre-existing commitments and lacks a concrete timetable, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's redirection of £36 billion into the Network North program underscores a determination to enhance the UK's transportation infrastructure, benefitting regions across the nation. The allocation of funds towards rail upgrades, road improvements, smart ticketing, and pothole repairs seeks to create a more accessible and efficient transportation network, ultimately improving the quality of life for citizens throughout the UK.


Read more: Sunak’s project plan for £36bn redirected HS2 cash – full list | Construction Enquirer News