§ Tony LloydTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the expected effect of investment railway improvements over the next 10 years upon residents in Manchester, Central. [177697]
§ Mr. McNultyResidents of Manchester, Central will benefit from the new TransPennine Express franchise, which commenced in February. The franchise secures investment of around £260 million, which will include the introduction of a new fleet of 100 mph diesel trains leading to increased capacity, improved service quality and performance across the region. A new northern franchise, which will include local and regional services through Manchester, has been tendered competitively. Work continues on the West Coast Main Line upgrade, which will see a reduction in journey times on services to/from Manchester and an increase in service frequency.