HC Deb 14 June 2004 vol 422 c698W
Mrs. Fitzsimons

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the effect of investment in railway improvements over the next 10 years upon residents of the parliamentary constituency of Rochdale. [178561]

Mr. McNulty

Residents of Rochdale 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 Rochdale, 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 the North West and an increase in service frequency.