Northern Powerhouse Rail – Northern Powerhouse Rail will
transform the economic geography of the North, connecting cities
with faster, more frequent services to boost growth and improve
the experiences of passengers across the region. The Budget
announces up to a further £37 million to support the development
of Northern Powerhouse Rail, building on £300 million
already committed to ensure HS2 infrastructure can accommodate
future potential Northern Powerhouse Rail and Midlands Engine
Rail services. The first business case of the scheme is due at
the end of the year. (50)
Tees Valley – The government is supporting local growth in the
Tees Valley with plans for a Special Economic Area covering the
South Tees Development Corporation (STDC) site and up to £14
million in funding for the STDC, the first Mayoral Development
Corporation outside of London. This investment, subject to
approval of a satisfactory business case, will enable the STDC to
undertake early redevelopment of a part of the site and attract
new business and investment. Designation of the site as a Special
Economic Area would allow for the local retention of additional
business rates growth.
Eden Project North – The government is providing £100,000 to
support the development of proposals for an ‘Eden Project North’
centre in Morecambe.
Northern Powerhouse Strategy – The government will publish a
refreshed Northern Powerhouse Strategy next year.