Overview
- The programme is split into three stages, with initial upgrades on Sheffield–Leeds, Leeds–York and Leeds–Bradford targeted for the 2030s.
- A new Liverpool–Manchester route via Manchester Airport and Warrington follows, then wider east–west links across the Pennines, including a proposed new station in Bradford.
- Ministers signal a long‑term intention to add a Birmingham–Manchester line after NPR is complete, retaining HS2‑acquired land and stressing it is not a reinstatement of HS2.
- Central funding is capped at £45 billion in constant prices, with only £1.1 billion confirmed this Parliament and potential local top‑ups through business rates, borrowing or a tourist tax.
- Northern mayors broadly welcomed the ambition, while unions, experts and Conservatives criticised the lack of delivery detail; development work also explores reopening the Leamside Line.