The Chancellor’s plans for long-term economic growth have been welcomed by rail industry observers, because they include substantial investment in railways, but one transport campaigning group said it was ‘disappointed’.

Deputy chair of the National Infrastructure Commission Julia Prescot said: ‘The Chancellor’s speech recognises that half measures on infrastructure will no longer cut the mustard. Accelerating investment in line with the Commission’s existing recommendations is essential: the government’s ten-year strategy in June, and its planning bill, must now give investors and contractors a clear picture of what happens next so they can invest in their skills and supply chains in anticipation.

‘The green light to unleash the Oxford to Cambridge corridor’s full economic potential is welcome after a number of false starts and I’m pleased the government’s ambition matches the scale of transformation we envisaged in our original report in 2017. It is essential that the transport, water and housing constraints on economic growth in one of the UK’s most productive areas are removed, and filling in the gaps on East West Rail, improving strategic roads and concerted action to secure the region’s water supplies are significant steps forward. The government’s compelling vision for the corridor must now be turned into a comprehensive economic plan.’

Mott McDonald transport market lead for UK and Europe Thomas Knight added: ‘The Chancellor’s announcement is an important step forward in providing clarity about key investment decisions which will drive economic growth and improve connectivity across the UK. Mention of crucial projects such as East West Rail, West Yorkshire Mass Transit and the A428; which we are proudly helping to plan and deliver, demonstrates the government’s understanding of the need for infrastructure investment to support growth. These schemes are vital for improving regional connectivity, reducing congestion, and supporting sustainable development.

‘The government presenting a clear path from planning to delivery with commitment to cutting down red tape will mean these projects can be delivered more quickly, while still prioritising community and environmental needs.

‘By prioritising infrastructure projects, the government is demonstrating a clear commitment to creating a more connected, resilient and sustainable future. We’re pleased to continue our collaboration with the government and other stakeholders.’

However Silviya Barrett from the Campaign for Better Transport said: ‘The commitment to build around existing and any future railway stations is very welcome and something we have long campaigned for. As is the commitment to improve rail links between Oxford and Cambridge, but we are very disappointed that the line will not be electrified. The Government has missed a trick here. Few countries in Europe have built any non-electrified track in recent years and not committing to a fully electric East West Rail looks like a failure to future-proof the project.’

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