Rail North Committee in Bradford on 10 June
The 2025 UK City of Culture, Bradford, played host to this week’s Rail North Committee meeting. Members gathered to review performance and delivery, infrastructure investment and consider rail reform for our region.
The Committee reappointed Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham as Chair, and Bradford Council Leader, Susan Hinchcliffe, as Vice Chair.
Members reflected on the recent advice they provided to the Secretary of State for Transport, on improving accessibility at the North’s railway stations, calling for greater local control of funding and a ‘quick wins programme for immediate action. The Committee will now explore what creative and innovative solutions might be available to deliver accessibility improvements more rapidly.
After responding to the recent government consultation, the North will now set out its plans for rail reform – with initial proposals expected in the autumn. Full press release here.
The Committee discussed plans for new rolling stock on Northern and TransPennine Trains, which will deliver additional capacity, improved reliability, and enhanced passenger comfort across key routes.
Turning to infrastructure investment, members welcomed the work to create “One Plan” to oversee strategic investment and planning.
The next Rail North Committee will take place on Monday 1 September 2025.
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