One North rail plan welcomed by Councillor Duckworth

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Councillor Ian Duckworth

Plans for a new trans-Pennine rail tunnel likely to pass through Rochdale have been welcomed by Councillor Ian Duckworth, a member of the Transport for Greater Manchester committee.

Chancellor George Osborne announced his support for the ‘One North’ plans after meeting with leaders from five northern cities whilst visiting Manchester on Tuesday (5 August).

The proposal, which is currently in its early stages, includes expanded motorways and a super-fast and frequent inner-city rail network. The route would be between Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield and Newcastle and would hopefully see trains pass through Rochdale.

Councillor Ian Duckworth said: “I am hoping it will pass through Rochdale and they don’t build a new line somewhere. The plan is in its very early stages at the minute but I like looking at the bigger picture and the bigger picture looks nice.”

The project could cost up to £15 billion and would take 15 years to complete but the line would see trains traveling at up to 125mph and would slash journey times by more than half whilst taking pressure of off the M62 motorway.

Councillor Duckworth added: “It is not expected until at least 2030 but I do welcome the plans and think it is a good idea. The idea is an acorn at the minute and that acorn needs to grow but we will have to see what happens.”

The plan also calls for a direct rail link from Manchester Airport to all major northern cities.