Unveiled: Plans for 700 extra trains a day across the north

The so-called “initial industry plan” also includes journey time improvements in Yorkshire and electrification of the Midland main line and north trans-Pennine line.

The programme covers the period 2014 to 2019, with the industry aiming to cut rail costs by £1.3 billion a year by the end of this decade.

The plan envisages improvements to a number of stations including Fenchurch Street in London and Liverpool Central - but does not confirm any in Yorkshire.

Rail chiefs claim that by better linking Britain’s major cities, an extra 180,000 peak-time seats could be provided, as well as accommodating a 30% increase in freight.

The hoped-for schemes, which will need Government approval, are in addition to £4.9 billion-worth of ongoing projects such as the Thameslink and Crossrail schemes in London and already-announced electrification schemes such as the Great Western line.

The rail industry also spoke today of trying to improve the passenger experience in key areas such as journey information, comfort and accessibility.

Network Rail group strategy director Paul Plummer said: “The railways are booming, with more and more people choosing rail. Closer collaboration within the industry will deliver even more efficiencies.

“This revenue growth and improved efficiency taken together provide governments with real choices to consider, choices around the appropriate balance between subsidy, investment and fares.”

Michael Roberts, chief executive of the Association of Train Operating Companies, said: “Rail has a bright future in supporting a successful green economy in the years ahead. This plan shows how we can do that by providing a better quality of service to growing numbers of passengers at a more affordable cost.

“We look forward to working with government to ensure the right framework is in place to make this possible.”

The plan comes as season-ticket holders face average fare rises of 8% in the new year at a time when passenger numbers are rising on a network where rail costs are seen as too high.