Review calls for major investment in Yorkshire's "Victorian" rail network
It's being backed by the Mayor's for North, South and West Yorkshire
Last updated 16th May 2025
A new plan to fix Yorkshire’s rail network could unlock billions in investment and support the government’s growth ambitions, according to a report published today by Lord Blunkett.
The Yorkshire Plan for Rail outlines a phased, 15-year blueprint to modernise the region’s ageing rail infrastructure — much of it dating back to the Victorian era — which is currently blamed for poor performance, unreliable services, and limited capacity. The plan aims to better connect passengers and businesses by delivering faster, more frequent and reliable train services.
Lord Blunkett's report calls for £2.4 billion in funding for the first phase of improvements by 2030, and a total of £14 billion over the next 15 years to deliver the full plan. It also supports wider transport projects such as bringing back trams to West Yorkshire and extending tram networks in South Yorkshire.
If fully funded, it's claimed the rail overhaul could bring £20 billion to the regional economy, support 83,000 new jobs, and help build 210,000 new homes over the next decade.
Lord Blunkett says: “Yorkshire has been punching under its weight for far too long. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to improve connectivity and unlock economic growth across the region. By taking action now, the benefits will be felt not just here, but across the North, the Midlands and beyond. It’s time to back Yorkshire.”
The plan also calls for stronger devolution powers to allow local leaders more say in how rail improvements are delivered.
It's being launched alongside West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin, South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard, and York and North Yorkshire Mayor David Skaith.