
The Final Report of the Union Connectivity Review – led by Network Rail Chairman Sir Peter Hendy - recommends upgrades to the West Coast and East Coast main lines, in addition to the North Wales Coast line and Cardiff to Birmingham.
Upgrades to routes in Northern Ireland to improve connectivity between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and outlying regions are also backed. However, all require further assessment of options, costs and benefits. Surveys undertaken during the review suggest 51% of respondents said rail services and stations should be given the highest priority for improvements.