Transport for the North boss visits Hull to help unlock city’s economic potential

Transport for the North chief executive Martin Tugwell set out how TfN’s Northern Transport Charter can help unlock the Hull's economic potential and in particular the key role that investment in its transport system can have, as he visited the city last week.

Thursday's visit began at Hull Paragon Interchange, where Mr Tugwell met with Councillor Daren Hale, leader of Hull City Council, along with senior council officers, to hear first-hand about opportunities across the city’s transport network and discuss how TfN can support them in making the case for the investment that will support local residents and businesses.

Mr Tugwell then visited the Murdoch’s Connection footbridge to talk about progress on the A63 Castle Street project.

Next stop was the R-evolution cycle hub at Trinity Market, before Mr Tugwell headed to the Guildhall, for a lunch and further discussions on how TfN could support Hull with its goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2030 and on the need to continue to press for improved connectivity with the rest of the North in support of the economy.

TfN’s newly appointed chair, Lord Patrick McLoughlin, also joined Mr Tugwell in Hull to meet with leaders in the region, including the Lord Mayor of Hull, Councillor Lynn Petrini.

Launched at TfN’s annual conference last September, the Northern Transport Charter sets out a road map towards further long-term devolution of transport-related powers to the North.

Mr Tugwell said: “Hull has seen underinvestment in its transport system for too long. As a global gateway to the UK, now with Freeport status, Hull’s ambition, enterprise and aspiration need to be supported if we are to see levelling up in action.

“I’ve seen first-hand what can be done in Hull when it is given the opportunity. The works to the A63, which will improve access to the port, relieve congestion and integrate active travel networks, are just one example of the type of transport investment needed to support growth and enhance connectivity.

“Like many in Hull, we were disappointed that the published Integrated Rail Plan did not include specific proposals for Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire. However, we remain committed to working with the area’s political and business leaders to make the case for the investment that will help support Hull’s ambition.

“Our Northern Transport Charter sets out our offer to Government that shows by strengthening our collaboration we can unlock the economic potential of Hull and the wider North.”

Councillor Daren Hale, leader of Hull City Council and the city’s representative on the TfN board, said: “The North of England has experienced prolonged underinvestment over many years, and the contribution that Hull could make has been discounted for too long.

“The city has much to offer but there must be a process of levelling up and investing in the North to enable the economic potential of the city to be realised.

“Working as a strategic partner alongside Transport for the North provides us with greater opportunity to secure future transport investment, deliver an integrated transport network that is fit for purpose and meet the challenges that face us and every other major town and city.”

Launched at TfN’s annual conference last September, the charter sets out a road map towards further long-term devolution of transport-related powers to the North.