Overview

• Government sources say a formal revival of Northern Powerhouse Rail will be set out in the coming weeks, with the announcement expected to define the project’s scope and funding.
• The BBC reports the plan will not be unveiled at next week’s Labour conference in Liverpool, as officials extend reviews while insisting the government remains fully committed.
• Officials are planning for a green light after the conference and before the 26 November Budget, according to the i Paper.
• The scheme under review includes a new line between Liverpool and Manchester via Manchester Airport and links through to Leeds and Hull, with proposals being re-examined to avoid HS2-style problems.
• Around £12 billion saved from cancelling HS2 north of Birmingham has been earmarked for Manchester–Liverpool improvements, while a Policy Exchange report backed by Reform UK attacks the £17 billion Liverpool–Manchester plan and northern leaders and opposition parties press for delivery.