Hull MP says 2017 is still possible for rail upgrade

Hull North MP Diana Johnson has responded to a new Department of Transport consultation document effecting rail electrification to Hull.

Diana Johnson MP said: "In March, the Transport Secretary gave the impression to Parliament and the media that there was a fair chance that Hull rail electrification would be done in time for 2017 City of Culture, rather than waiting with other schemes not to be started until after 2019, if at all.

"Back in March, our clear understanding was that in order for 2017 to be a realistic target a firm decision was needed this year.

"Although seeing in Department of Transport documents that a final decision on Hull rail electrification has not technically been made isn't welcome, I understand from First Hull Trains that if the final decision to proceed happens this Autumn, the City of Culture 2017 could still be a realistic target.

"But we also know that if the train line upgrade is delayed or abandoned, this also means the rolling stock improvements that we need are put back or abandoned too. This wouldn't be good for the City of Culture or wider regeneration plans in Hull.

"With A63 road upgrade not happening in time for 2017, and with 12m City of Culture visitors expected to Hull, early rail electrification is all the more vital.

"Down South, the Coalition plans to spend billions on large transport schemes, so it would be grossly unfair for Hull not to get the overwhelmingly privately financed rail electrification approved in time for 2017."

• The following link goes to the new Department of Transport consultation document on Northern rail routes - http://goo.gl/kJljes. See pages 46-47.