BUS and train operator First Group has confirmed that it will make a bid to run the East Coast rail franchise.
The group, which begins operating trans-Pennine rail services next week, promised "real passenger benefits" if it wins the battle to run the route.
The East Coast mainline - linking Scotland with London King's Cross and serving Huddersfield passengers via Leeds and Wakefield stations - is now run by GNER.
First Group also runs bus services in the Huddersfield area.
Chief executive Moir Lockhead said the group was investing in new train fleets for the trans-Pennine route and its Hull Trains franchise.
He promised similar investment in the East Coast route if First Group's bid was approved by the Strategic Rail Authority.
Mr Lockhead added: "First is committed to transforming the way we travel and our commitment to safety, engineering, investment and customer service is at the heart of everything we do."
GNER said it welcomed the SRA's decision to run a competition for the franchise.
Chief executive Christopher Garnett said:
"It couldn't come at a better time for us, as our improvement programme gathers pace."
