The government is set to announce its intention to build a new rail link between Birmingham and Manchester, the understands.
Previous plans for the HS2 high-speed rail line had included a line between the two cities, but that part of the project was scrapped by Rishi Sunak’s government.
On Wednesday, the government is expected to confirm proposals for new and improved rail links across the North of England in a scheme known as Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR).
Little detail about a new Birmingham to Manchester route is anticipated, other than the intention to build it after NPR is completed, meaning it may not happen for decades.
HS2 is currently tens of billions of pounds over budget and around a decade behind schedule.
Reports state that the now-shortened line between Birmingham and London could cost £81bn.
Accounting for inflation, that would mean at least £100bn will be spent but only 135 miles of railway built.
