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‘Poor connections hold back Northern gateways’

[ January 25, 2023   //   ]

The Transport for the North (TfN) regional grouping has published an International Connectivity and Aviation policy paper, pointing out that only two in five exports leave through sea or air gateways in the region.

It builds on TfN’s previous policy on International Connectivity which highlighted the importance of aviation and shipping in supporting the transformation of economic performance in the North and closing the productivity gap with other parts of UK.

It says that there is untapped spare capacity at Northern ports and airports and that better connections will it make it faster and cheaper for businesses to access international markets, encourage trade and investment and facilitate economic growth. But it requires significant investment in improved surface access, including Northern Powerhouse Rail, HS2, and rail electrification into major ports.

TfN chief executive Martin Tugwell, said: “The evidence is clear: poor transport infrastructure and services are holding back the North’s economic potential. Investing in improving infrastructure will enable growth, improve access to jobs, and ensure the North is a great place to live and invest.

“The North has demonstrated its potential to be a performer on the global stage. To build a well-connected North we need to do more than just improve travel within the region. We also need to ensure that the North has first-class international connections.

“Maximising the use of our existing ports and airports will realise the North’s potential, whilst helping provide relief to gateways in the over congested South. This includes making use of the potential of its airports and ports to deliver more direct international connections. 

“The TfN Board will continue to work with its partners to seek solutions to the challenges we face by harnessing the opportunities our work has identified.”  

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