Reform UK Plans Scrap Northern Powerhouse Rail Scheme

Reform UK, led by deputy leader Richard Tice, has vowed to scrap the Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) project if it comes to power, urging companies not to bid on contracts related to the scheme. Tice criticized the project as an expensive and inefficient undertaking, predicting it would be a greater failure than HS2, with a Liverpool-Manchester line potentially costing £30 billion and offering only minimal journey time improvements. The party argues that funds would be better spent on improving existing railways and roads that northern residents use regularly, contrasting with Labour’s plans to revive NPR to enhance east-west rail connections across northern England. Labour figures, including Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram, have condemned Reform UK's stance, accusing them of favoring a 'second-class railway' for the North and lacking governance understanding. A report by Policy Exchange, authored by an HS2 critic, supports Reform’s position by highlighting cost overruns and delays in HS2 and proposing alternatives like an 'Elizabeth line for the North' involving tunnels under Manchester. However, HS2 Ltd disputes the claims of underestimated costs and remains committed to transparency, while Reform UK criticizes what it sees as political detachment from voters' real needs.