News
September 09, 2025
Reform UK "shambles" as party vows to scrap new Liverpool to Manchester rail line
Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram slams Nigel Farage's party as Reform deputy leader says Northern Powerhouse Rail plans would be cancelled
**Reform UK Faces Criticism After Promising to Axe Liverpool-Manchester Rail Line**
Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram has strongly criticized Reform UK after the party's deputy leader declared plans for the new Liverpool to Manchester rail line would be scrapped if they were in power. The announcement has sparked outrage and accusations of undermining crucial infrastructure development in the North.
The controversial statement came during a recent campaign event, where Reform UK's representative outlined their transportation priorities, seemingly prioritizing other projects over the long-awaited Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) scheme, which includes the vital link between Liverpool and Manchester.
Mayor Rotheram didn't mince words, labeling Reform UK's position a "shambles" and highlighting the potential damage such a decision would inflict on the region's economy and connectivity. He argued that the NPR project, and specifically the Liverpool-Manchester line, is essential for unlocking economic growth, creating jobs, and improving transport links for communities across the North West.
The proposed rail line is envisioned as a high-speed connection, significantly reducing journey times between the two major cities and boosting capacity for both passengers and freight. Supporters claim it would not only benefit Liverpool and Manchester but also have a ripple effect across the wider Northern Powerhouse region, encouraging investment and attracting businesses.
The Reform UK's stance raises serious questions about their commitment to levelling up the country and addressing regional inequalities. Critics argue that cancelling the project would be a major blow to the government's ambition to rebalance the economy and invest in areas outside of London and the South East.
The announcement has ignited a debate about the future of transport infrastructure in the North and the different visions offered by the various political parties. With the election looming, voters will be closely scrutinizing each party's plans for investment in crucial projects like the Liverpool-Manchester rail line and considering the potential impact on their communities. The future of this vital connection now hangs in the balance, dependent on the outcome of the upcoming election.
Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram has strongly criticized Reform UK after the party's deputy leader declared plans for the new Liverpool to Manchester rail line would be scrapped if they were in power. The announcement has sparked outrage and accusations of undermining crucial infrastructure development in the North.
The controversial statement came during a recent campaign event, where Reform UK's representative outlined their transportation priorities, seemingly prioritizing other projects over the long-awaited Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) scheme, which includes the vital link between Liverpool and Manchester.
Mayor Rotheram didn't mince words, labeling Reform UK's position a "shambles" and highlighting the potential damage such a decision would inflict on the region's economy and connectivity. He argued that the NPR project, and specifically the Liverpool-Manchester line, is essential for unlocking economic growth, creating jobs, and improving transport links for communities across the North West.
The proposed rail line is envisioned as a high-speed connection, significantly reducing journey times between the two major cities and boosting capacity for both passengers and freight. Supporters claim it would not only benefit Liverpool and Manchester but also have a ripple effect across the wider Northern Powerhouse region, encouraging investment and attracting businesses.
The Reform UK's stance raises serious questions about their commitment to levelling up the country and addressing regional inequalities. Critics argue that cancelling the project would be a major blow to the government's ambition to rebalance the economy and invest in areas outside of London and the South East.
The announcement has ignited a debate about the future of transport infrastructure in the North and the different visions offered by the various political parties. With the election looming, voters will be closely scrutinizing each party's plans for investment in crucial projects like the Liverpool-Manchester rail line and considering the potential impact on their communities. The future of this vital connection now hangs in the balance, dependent on the outcome of the upcoming election.
Category:
Politics