The government recently published a long-awaited statement on Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR), outlining its first detailed vision for the project since taking office in 2024. Below is a summary of the key decisions and an assessment of the project’s current position.
- £45 billion Northern Powerhouse Rail funding envelope
While the £45 billion does not represent new funding, placing NPR within a single, capped Treasury-controlled envelope provides the project with a clearer fiscal footing. This defined funding framework signals a stronger commitment than previous discretionary political statements and gives the programme greater financial certainty.£1.1 billion released for planning and development
Immediate funding unlocked for design, route development, and business case work. This marks a move from strategy to active programme development, which is welcome.
- Liverpool–Manchester rail line via Warrington and Manchester Airport
This line has long been part of NPR ambition, but this update confirms the specific route and role of Warrington and Manchester Airport, which is welcome news. - New or significantly enhanced stations at Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Airport
This is a recommitment to previous NPR proposals. - New Warrington Bank Quay Station
Newly confirmed as a key NPR hub on the Liverpool–Manchester corridor - Upgrades to existing routes between Sheffield, Leeds, York, and Bradford
Recommitment: Enhancements to existing infrastructure, including capacity and electrification improvements - Recommitment: Improved trans-Pennine connectivity linking Manchester, Leeds, Bradford, Sheffield, and York
- Leamside Line development in the North East
Recommitment: Further work on the Leamside Line is reaffirmed - Safeguarding land for a future Birmingham–Manchester rail line
The government has announced its intention to retain the land and explore a new line in the future. This is not formally part of NPR but was announced alongside it.
Timeline
Based on the government’s announcements, the current expected timeline is as follows:
-  (2026–2029)
- £1.1 billion allocated for planning, detailed design, route development, land safeguarding, and business case work.
- Early preparatory work on station upgrades and trans-Pennine connectivity improvements.
- Â (2030s)
- Upgrades to existing lines connecting Sheffield, Leeds, Bradford, and York.
- Completion of enhanced stations at Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Airport, and the new Warrington Bank Quay hub.
- Implementation of Liverpool–Manchester rail line via Warrington and Manchester Airport.
- Â (2040s and beyond)
- Potential development of a Birmingham–Manchester line, subject to future approvals, land retention, and funding decisions.
- Further improvements to trans-Pennine routes and regional connectivity, depending on final project phases and funding availability.
- Ongoing considerations
- Leamside Line development in the North East remains in early stages; timelines will depend on business case approval and subsequent funding.
- Any phase beyond the £45 billion envelope would require additional funding from local authorities or alternative sources, potentially affecting schedules.
Note: All timelines are indicative; detailed plans, budgets, and phased milestones have yet to be published.
Analysis
This announcement represents an important first step toward delivering Northern Powerhouse Rail. The fact that the government has recommitted to the programme, strengthening some areas along the way, should not be underestimated in the current political and fiscal climate. The package also provides immediate funding for planning and greater route specificity, both of which are genuine steps forward after years of delay.
However, what must be avoided now is another prolonged period of indecision for the sector. After a decade of uncertainty on NPR, the government must act quickly to provide detailed plans, timescales, and budgets for all phases of the project. This clarity is essential for stability, workforce planning, and maintaining forward confidence across the industry and supply chain.
If you would like to discuss these issues further, please get in touch with Edward Hughes, Head of Policy and Engagement: edward.hughes@nsar.co.uk