Investment in infrastructure is key to our economic recovery and success in the North of England and I am pleased that the Farnworth Tunnel project is on the verge of completion.
The project is to allow the electrification of the Preston to Manchester line. The electrification will enable increased capacity on this line which will improve times and the passenger experience.
London and the south of England has often seen the lion’s share of infrastructure spending but I am pleased to see the Chancellor, George Osborne, work to rebalance the North/South divide. Infrastructure investment is what many local businesses tell me is a key part of marking the Northern Powerhouse vision a success – this is why we are seeing a substantial increase in local jobs and economic growth in recent years.
Local materials and equipment have been extensively used in this project which includes the massive drill – bigger than that used in the Channel Tunnel – which was made in Oldham.