Manchester to Sheffield Trans-Pennine road tunnel route to “connect the North and transform its economy”

Five potential routes for the Trans-Pennine tunnel have now been shortlisted.

The Trans-Pennine tunnel is considered to be the most ambitious road scheme undertaken in the UK in more than 5 decades.

Launched by the government in autumn 2015, The Trans-Pennine tunnel study is one of a number of studies aimed at addressing some of the biggest challenges facing the road network in the UK.

The tunnel between Manchester and Sheffield could be a national first and almost halve journey times between the two northern cities.

All five routes join the M60 east of Manchester to the M1 north of Sheffield, with four options starting at the M67, and will see journeys cut by 30 minutes.

The tunnel could provide an economic boost to the two cities, as well as the surrounding area. The link would also reduce traffic through the Peak District National Park, as well as support the government’s plan to build a Northern Powerhouse.

Transport Minister John Hayes said: “I want people in the north of England to benefit from quicker, more reliable journeys.

“Today’s study brings us a step closer to building a Trans-Pennine roads tunnel – it would be the most ambitious project since the construction of the first motorways 50 years ago.

“We are already spending £15bn on the biggest upgrade to the road network for generations. This next phase is aimed at creating more vital links, creating jobs and opportunities and helping hardworking families across the country feel the benefits of our investment.”

John Cridland, chairman of Transport for the North, added: “The study shows a tunnel beneath the Pennines would both boost the economy of the region, and potentially benefit the environment of the Peak District by reducing traffic in the national park.

“This is just one of the visionary projects Transport for the North is working on, as well as other schemes, such as Northern Powerhouse Rail, as we continue to develop a Transport & Investment Strategy to connect the North and transform its economy.”