The UK government has reiterated its commitment to the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) with a visit to Manchester by Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves MP, and Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh MP.
Joining Mayor Andy Burnham, the ministers boarded an electric train service between Manchester Victoria and Stalybridge, highlighting the significant progress made on the electrification of the 70-mile route.
Northern commenced electric services between the two stations in August, marking a major milestone in the TRU programme. TransPennine Express services are expected to follow by the end of the year.
To the east of the Pennines, successful test runs were conducted on the newly energised railway line between York and Church Fenton in September. Passenger services are anticipated to commence by mid-2025.
The electrification of the Transpennine Route is a key component of the wider TRU programme, which aims to revolutionize rail travel between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds, and York. By enabling faster, cleaner, and more frequent train services, the government seeks to create a greener and more reliable railway network.
Gordon Kells, Interim TRU Managing Director, said: “It was highly encouraging to hear in last week’s budget announcement that the Government has pledged their full support for the programme.
“Yesterday’s visit provided the Chancellor, Transport Secretary and Mayor Andy Burnham with an opportunity to see firsthand the significant progress being made by our teams along the 70-miles of Transpennine Route, including the electrification upgrades between Manchester and Stalybridge.”
