Major rail improvements in England's north "will actually happen," Chancellor Rachel Reeves said, acknowledging the HS2 rail project had become a "byword" for disastrous planning. The government outlined its vision for improved links between England's northern towns and cities, aiming to transform the region and boost the UK economy.

The multibillion-pound scheme, known as Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR), is designed to deliver faster journeys and more frequent trains through upgraded and new lines, along with station improvements. Reeves stated that improvements should be felt by the early 2030s, more than a decade after the project was initially proposed. However, construction on parts of the plan requiring new infrastructure will not begin until after 2030.

One section of the route, between Leeds and Manchester, is already undergoing upgrades. Reeves told the BBC that passengers should start seeing improvements there sooner because "we're not going to wait until the whole line is built for people to be able to see the benefits." An initial 1.1 billion pounds has been allocated to the project.

The NPR project aims to address long-standing issues of connectivity and economic disparity between the north and south of England. Proponents argue that improved rail infrastructure will facilitate business growth, attract investment, and create jobs in the region. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the project's cost, potential environmental impact, and the timeline for completion. The delays and revisions to the original plans have also fueled skepticism about the government's commitment to the Northern Powerhouse agenda.

The current status of the NPR project involves ongoing planning and preparatory work for the various sections of the route. The upgrade of the Leeds to Manchester line is underway, while other sections are still in the design and consultation phase. The government is expected to provide further updates on the project's progress and funding in the coming months.