Integrated Rail Plan 2021-11-29
2021-11-29
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from the publication of a £96 billion integrated rail plan, which has been criticised for not delivering on previous commitments.
What assessment has he made of the implications for his policies on levelling up of the integrated rail plan? The integrated rail plan really only delivers an upgrade to existing lines and cancels Northern Powerhouse Rail. With three weeks left in 2021, when will the promised levelling-up White Paper be published?
The integrated rail plan provides significant benefits for communities across the north of England. Travel time between Leeds and Bradford is reduced to 12 minutes from over 20 minutes in some cases. Further work on mass transit systems like West Yorkshire's approach will be considered. The broader set of levelling-up plans will be shared with the House at the earliest opportunity.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific timeline for publishing the levelling-up White Paper
Broad Statements On Benefits
Future Intentions Without Commitments
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The question is about the lack of inclusion in the integrated rail plan of a proposed railway line between Manchester and Rawtenstall, which was expected to support regeneration efforts.
With the absence of a rail line from Manchester to Rawtenstall in the integrated rail plan, will my right hon. Friend look favourably on our levelling-up bid that includes transport and other schemes for Rossendale and east Lancashire?
East Lancashire, including Rawtenstall, is at the heart of a successful approach to levelling up. Communities in East Lancashire will receive investment not just in transport but also in skills, schools, and ensuring streets are safe.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment to support the bid
Broad Statements On Importance Of Area
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The question addresses the loss of regeneration opportunities resulting from the cancellation of the eastern leg of HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail, with significant economic implications for Bradford.
HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail were about regeneration opportunities. With the cancelled eastern leg, 38,000 homes and £38 billion of economic growth in Bradford have been lost. Local government leaders are united against the reduction in rail investment plans. Is the north being let down?
While there is disappointment, transport is not the only tool for regeneration. Homes England's work on brownfield sites and other investments will ensure that opportunities are spread more equally across England.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment to address the north's needs
Broad Statements About Alternative Approaches
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The question concerns the lack of rail stations in North West Leicestershire and seeks to restore railway funding, particularly for the Ivanhoe line.
What conversations is my right hon. Friend having with the Department for Transport about restoring railway funding, especially for reopening the Ivanhoe line in North West Leicestershire?
The importance of transport connectivity is acknowledged. Whether the Ivanhoe line can secure investment will be considered, with recognition that Ashby de la Zouch and other communities need such support.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment to restore funding
Broad Statements On Connectivity
Response accuracy