Chamber response to major transport investment in Tees Valley and the North East

“Today’s announcements are excellent news for towns and cities right across our region and demonstrate that local infrastructure investment unlocks national growth.

“At the Chamber, we have consistently supported fairer transport funding as part of our calls for a more connected, low-carbon North East. The significant funding announced for the Washington Loop Metro extension and rail projects in Teesside is a major win for everyone across the North East who has supported these successful campaigns.

“Upgrading our local transport networks, investing in including buses, EV infrastructure and improvements to safety and accessibility, are all vital to connecting people to opportunities and driving regional growth.

“As we set out in our comprehensive spending review submission to the Chancellor earlier this year, long-term, regionally led funding must remain a central feature of economic policy. The North East is one of the UK’s few net exporting regions and is at the forefront of delivering the UK’s sustainable growth ambitions. Continued investment in our infrastructure is essential to maintaining that momentum, not just for our region, but for the country as a whole.

“We now look forward to working with local and national partners to ensure this funding delivers real and lasting benefits for businesses and communities across the North East.”