Reform UK has announced a controversial transport policy. The party pledges to cancel the Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) project. This high-speed east-to-west rail link is a major planned infrastructure upgrade. Deputy Leader Richard Tice made this declaration firmly. He advised companies considering bids to simply “not bother.”
Tice explained the party’s reasoning clearly. He cited the massive overspending on the HS2 project. He called committing to further high-speed links “insanity.” Consequently, a Reform government would redirect funds. The money would go to things the country needs more urgently.
This proposal immediately drew strong criticism. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham reacted angrily. He accused Reform UK of wanting a “second-class railway” for the North. Also, he expressed no surprise at the position. He labeled Tice and leader Nigel Farage as “creatures of the London establishment.”
Therefore, the Northern Powerhouse Rail was first proposed in 2014. Former Tory Chancellor George Osborne initially championed it. The project was later shelved under Boris Johnson’s administration. However, Labour is expected to soon announce its return. The NPR aims to significantly boost connectivity across Northern England.
However, a report from the Policy Exchange think tank supported Reform’s stance. It predicted NPR could be an even bigger financial disaster than HS2. Researchers estimated a new Liverpool-Manchester line could cost £30 billion. They argued it would save just one minute on current journey times.
The Department for Transport also weighed in. A spokesperson acknowledged the North’s historical transport disadvantages. They stated that second-rate links have left communities cut off. This situation has undoubtedly held back economic growth. The government highlighted ongoing upgrades like the Transpennine Route Upgrade.
HS2 Ltd itself disputed the report’s financial claims. A spokesperson said they did not recognize the alleged 22% higher costs. They emphasized a commitment to transparency and independent auditing.
The debate highlights a clear north-south divide in infrastructure ambition. Burnham pointed out that every other European country connects its big cities with modern rail. He argued the North should not be denied this privilege. Reform UK’s position sets a stark alternative ahead of the next election.
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