how demand could be met

In Leeds. the growth at peak times could be as high 20 per cent by 2014, 42 per cent by 2019, 53 per cent by 2024 and 68 per cent 2029.

By The Newsroom

Published 11th Oct 2010, 16:38 BST

Updated 11th Oct 2010, 23:50 BST

In Sheffield there is a predicted passenger increase of 15 per cent by 2014, 35 per cent by 2019, 48 per cent by 2024 and by 2029 a rise of 62 per cent.

Network Rail is proposing a number of projects to help meet this demand, including:

n The Northern Hub – which would allow 3.5million more passengers to travel across the North every year.

n New platforms at Leeds, Huddersfield and Manchester Airport stations.

n Upgrading the freight lines between Immingham, Scunthorpe and Knottingley.

n A rolling programme of electrification including the Midland Mainline between Sheffield and London St Pancras International.

Network Rail is consulting on the Northern Route Utilisation Strategy and will publish a final version in May next year.