KEIGHLEY MP Robbie Moore has welcomed plans for a £589 million upgrade of the trans-Pennine mainline.

He said the “vital” improvements to the line connecting Leeds, Huddersfield and Manchester would benefit passengers and businesses in Keighley and Ilkley.

The Conservative politician praised his Government for “delivering on its promise” to level-up transport across the North.

Mr Moore said the most congested section of the route would be doubled from two to four tracks, allowing fast trains to overtake slower ones – improving journey times and reliability for passengers across the North.

Most of the line will be electrified, and the Government will also consider full electrification - allowing longer and more frequent trains between Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, York and Newcastle - along with digital signalling and improved freight capacity.

Mr Moore said: “It’s brilliant to see huge investment and attention being plugged into transport in the north, which will cut journey times and improve services for passengers in Keighley and Ilkley, while providing a much-needed boost to our local economy.”