Ken Kyle, Business Development Manager at Telent Technology Services Ltd
Like many of my colleagues in the rail sector I was underwhelmed by the Integrated Rail Plan. At least for or the moment, it feels like the opportunity for transformative change of the economy across the North has not been realised.
Not extending electrification to Hull will impact on both delivering net zero decarbonisation and the benefits of an East – West freight corridor. The removal of the new line between Leeds and Manchester will result in the true economic capability of Bradford not being fully harnessed. Ultimately, the lack of technical evidence published with the Integrated Rail Plan has not allowed for detailed analysis of the declared benefits of the new plan, so there is significant uncertainty regarding viability of key elements of the IRP. We await further details.
However, the green light for HS2 to Manchester is still good news and it is now more important than ever that the rail sector rallies together and works to demonstrate the value of rail while continuing to show value for money to the taxpayer. As such, I would encourage you to listen to Transport for the North’s Integrated Rail Plan review on the link below. The first 17 minutes features Tim Foster Interim Strategy and Programme Director of TfN and Tim Wood Northern Powerhouse Rail Director.
https://transportforthenorth.public-i.tv/core/portal/webcast_interactive/611494/start_time/158000
A new voice for the rail supply chain
RIA North, representing Rail Industry Association (RIA) across Northern England was established last autumn to take over and build upon the work of NRIL which, for the previous 2 years, had acted as the voice of businesses in the rail supply chain into Transport for the North. RIA North intends to establish itself as the leading rail supply industry authority in the north and provides a collective view on priority issues for the rail supply chain at a regional and national level.
Part of this process means advising RIA at a national level on how its programme of campaigns, public affairs, lobbying and events can most effectively reflect the needs of RIA members and the wider supply chain in the north. It also seeks to support and facilitate constructive dialogue with the relevant national and regional bodies such as government departments, sub national transport bodies, train operating companies etc.
To deliver against these aims several work-streams have been set up covering key issues like value for money, decarbonisation, innovation, digitalisation, and people and skills. Two of those areas, decarbonisation and innovation, have already produced white papers.
Please also do get in touch if you would be interested in filling a vacancy as a Vice-Chair for the group.