Billion-pound investment for Tees Valley local transport

The Chancellor has announced that the Tees Valley will benefit from £1bn of investment in regional transport.

Extending platform 3 at Middlesbrough station, unblocking the local network, will form part of the investment.

Tees Valley Combined Authority said the funding would mean work can accelerate on schemes like a new station at Teesside Park and “an autonomous tram network to make getting around our towns easier”.

In addition to public transport plans, there is a “vision to create and deliver a new Darlington Northern Link Road to establish better connections between the A66 and the A1(M).”

Last year Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen and Cabinet Members of the Tees Valley Combined Authority agreed to a package of transport projects, including the redevelopment of Teesside International Airport railway station and infrastructure to allow direct rail services between Darlington and Hartlepool.

Cllr Steve Harker, Leader of Darlington Borough Council and Cabinet Member for Transport and Infrastructure, said: “This is very good news for the Tees Valley and shows the new Government’s commitment to making a real difference to our transport network. We’ve a wide range of projects planned for our road and rail network – and there is also plenty lined up to improve infrastructure for buses and those who get around by bike.

“This commitment will help us make our plans a reality and I’m looking forward to seeing more progress now being made on the ground.”

Transport for the North said it welcomed the spending announcements.

A new Metro line bringing the light rail service to Washington forms part of a package that will also see investment in road maintenance, better and safer walking and cycling routes and new bus priority measures.

Chief Executive, Martin Tugwell said: “Better connectivity is fundamental to unlocking sustainable and inclusive growth. If people are unable to move around easily because of poor transport options it means the whole local economy is held back.

“We are also pleased to hear that the Chancellor has listened to the advice from TfN and others in the North to reform the Treasury’s ‘Green Book’, to drive more investment in all regions. We will continue to work closely to inform that review with the North’s data and evidence.”

According to the North East Combined Authority, Washington is the fourth largest town in England not connected to the rail network, and the new line is expected to see its first trains in 2033.

The North East Chamber of Commerce also responded to yesterday’s announcements.

Rachel Anderson, Assistant Director, Policy, said:

“At the Chamber, we have consistently supported fairer transport funding as part of our calls for a more connected, low-carbon North East. The significant funding announced for the Washington Loop Metro extension and rail projects in Teesside is a major win for everyone across the North East who has supported these successful campaigns.

“Upgrading our local transport networks, investing in including buses, EV infrastructure and improvements to safety and accessibility, are all vital to connecting people to opportunities and driving regional growth.”

The announcements come ahead of the Spending Review next week.