In response to the announcement by Network Rail today (25th June) Tobyn Hughes, who leads on rail for pteg said:

'We have been concerned for some time that Network Rail was falling behind on delivering its commitments on major upgrades like Trans Pennine and Midland Main Line. Tough action was needed, and has been taken, to get Network Rail back on course. In particular we are pleased to see that our colleague Sir Peter Hendy will be bringing his immense experience and energy to the role of Chair of Network Rail.

However, at the same time key schemes to improve north south and east west rail links in the North and Midlands shouldn't pay the price for Network Rail's failings by slipping over the horizon. We need clear timescales for these schemes as soon as possible so that we can plan wider transport provision around them and so that more widely the city regions that depend on these links can look to the future with confidence.

We also know that Sir Peter knows the importance of national agencies like Network Rail working much more closely with devolved transport authorities in our great cities. We hope that as part of this wider shake up we can look forward to new relationships with Network Rail founded on greater collaboration and genuine partnership.' 

For more information contact Jonathan Bray on 0113 251 7445 or 07818 041 485.