New figures show Network Rail’s contribution to the economy in the North West

It has been revealed that Network Rail is supporting over 9,000 jobs in the North West of England in a new set of figures that show the contribution the company has made to the region’s economy.

Other figures reveal that Network Rail has spent £276 million with 324 North West-based businesses and the Ordsall Chord (a new section of track linking Manchester’s main stations) is supporting 2,000 jobs and engaging over 200 suppliers.

Last week, Ordsall’s 600-tonne arch, the only one of its kind in Britain, was craned into position by Severfield, a northern company who made the arch at their Bolton factory.

“Today I can reveal Network Rail alone is supporting around 9,300 jobs across the North West of England and spending money with 324 local businesses,” said Martin Frobisher, Managing Director for Network Rail’s London North Western route. “We intend to keep contributing to the economy in the North West, working with local businesses and creating jobs for local people on improving the railway to bring more connectivity and even more prosperity to all.”

Other investments for the North West

This follows the announcement last year that Network Rail is releasing land for up to 3,600 new homes in Manchester and the north, and the 4,737 people from the North West who work for Network Rail come from every part of the region.

“The focus on rail investment in the North West is hugely welcome,” Chris Fletcher, Marketing & Policy Director at Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce commented further. “Whilst there will be immediate economic benefits from the delivery of these projects the main growth will happen in years to come.”

The Ordsall Chord is due to be completed by December and will open up new direct routes to Manchester Airport from across the north, as well as easing congestion by a quarter through the city.