Rail passengers have been promised more seats, more services and new trains under franchise plans announced by the Government.

Improvement plans cover the Northern and TransPennine franchises, which will be re-let next year.

Companies already short-listed in the competition to run the two franchises will be required to replace outdated Pacer trains and introduce new trains.

They will also have to tackle overcrowding, invest in stations, add more than 200 new train services every day across both franchises and accommodate more than 19,000 extra commuters in Manchester during the morning rush hour.

In all, the successful bidders will have to provide more than one third more capacity on routes covered by the two franchises as well as introduce free wi-fi.

The proposals were outlined by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg and Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin.

Mr Clegg said: “This is an historic moment for the North. Improving rail links in the region has been much anticipated.

“These old trains have been rattling across rails in the North for over 30 years – a constant source of complaint which have held the region back.

“Today’s plans include a new fleet of trains and improved services that will better connect our great Northern towns and cities.

“Modernising rail in the North will encourage business, boost tourism and give commuters the journey they deserve; one that is fit for a 21st century metropolis.”

Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin
Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin

Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: “This is great news for passengers across the north, who will finally get a rail service that matches up to the booming economy in this region. That means more seats, more services and a brand new fleet of modern trains.

“Unlike the last Northern franchise in 2004, which included limited plans to invest in services or meet demand, this deal will maintain investment and grow to fit the needs of passengers for years to come.

“Together with the £1 billion investment we are making to improve the region’s railways and our plans to link east and west through HS3, our railways are making the region an economic powerhouse.”

Companies shortlisted to run the new franchises were announced in August 2014. Competing for Northern are Arriva, Govia and Northern, while on the shortlist for TPE are FirstGroup, Keolis/Go Ahead and Stagecoach.

James MacColl, head of campaigns at the Campaign for Better Transport, said: “This is a step toward the modern, high-capacity rail network northern cities need to connect them.

“Much of the existing network has be starved of investment, leaving poor facilities, sparse timetables and trains that should have been scrapped a decade ago.”