A new body that will decide the future of important transport issues in the North East is due to meet tomorrow (Thurs, May 29) for the first time.
The Transport North East Committee, part of the newly established North East Combined Authority, will consider a report that outlines some of the key transport issues and opportunities in the North East.
The Committee was set up following the formation of the North East Combined Authority – a new legal body that brings together the seven councils which serve County Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside and Sunderland.
The seven-authority transport committee replaces the Integrated Transport Authority (ITA).
Councillor Simon Henig, chair of the Combined Authority, said: “We believe strongly that by working together we can deliver the right environment in which businesses can grow, jobs can be created and the quality of life for local people can be improved.
“Improving our transport infrastructure has a key part to play in the transformation of our economic fortunes and it is pleasing to see planning work begin now in earnest.”
The committee will meet at 2pm at Newcastle Civic Centre.
Leader of Newcastle City Council, Cllr Nick Forbes, who has responsibility for transport issues on the leadership board, said: “Good transport connections are important to businesses, residents and visitors, and will underpin the success of the region’s economy.
“Our priority is to improve transport so we are joining together with a stronger voice to win investment for public transport in the region.”