Northern Powerhouse Rail: Council now optimistic about tram expansion to Chesterfield after trains announcement
Hopes for the expansion of Sheffield’s tram-train network to Chesterfield have been boosted, after the latest Government pledge to boost the city’s rail links.
The boost comes after the Government announced plans to electrify the route between Sheffield and Leeds for the first time, as well as to improve rail links between both Leeds and Manchester, as part of the long-discussed Northern Powerhouse Rail scheme.
Plans to extend the tram train network have proposed taking trams or tram trains to Stocksbridge, Chesterfield via Barrow Hill, and the Hallamshire Hospital.
The Chesterfield route could include Darnall, Waverley, Woodhouse, Beighton, Killamarsh, Eckington, Barrow Hill/Staveley, and Whittington.
Sheffield Council has welcomed the announcement, and says there is now a commitment from the Government to work with the city on the expansion of the tram-train nework, which currently operates between Sheffield and Rotherham.
The council says the Northern Powerhouse Rail announcement reflects the priorities the city and Yorkshire partners have set out to improve rail connectivity and capacity, and drive economic growth.
Councillor Tom Hunt, Leader of Sheffield City Council, said: “This is great news for Sheffield. Being included in the first phase of the Northern Powerhouse Rail plans means that the early stages of delivery will provide better, faster trains to Leeds and Manchester, upgrades to capacity at Sheffield station and an important commitment from government to work with us on our tram-train expansion.
“Outdated transport infrastructure has held Sheffield back for too long. This is a very positive announcement and a sign of the government’s commitment to the North.
“Faster, more reliable journeys will help businesses in Sheffield and give people access to more opportunities. The investment will help us unlock new opportunities for homes and jobs around Sheffield station and across our city.”
There have also been suggestions that the old Victoria railway station in near The Wicker could also be reopened to serve both routes, according to plans previously drawn up.