Back on track: can Burnham fix the north’s woeful rail services?

From a new high-speed line to better intercity links, the PM has a chance to tackle problems he criticised as Manchester mayor For passenger rail travel, the north of England was the future, once.

But since that first train from Darlington to Stockton in 1825, many have felt short-changed.

As one angry passenger put it, 200 years later: “What is it about the rail industry which makes them think they can treat passengers in the north as second-class citizens?” That complaint came from the former mayor of Greater Manchester, who frequently set out a different vision for the train services he would like.

Now that Andy Burnham is in No 10, he has the opportunity to win those battles – or perhaps see them a little differently.

For now, what unresolved issues could the railway expect to be pursued with greater urgency? Continue reading...