In response to the Budget announcement on track improvements in Manchester and the Swindon to Kemble line, Michael Roberts, Chief Executive of the Association of Train Operating Companies said:

“This investment should help to ease notable bottlenecks, providing rail passengers with more and quicker services, and stimulating economic growth. Train companies have been calling for these improvements that will bring significant benefits to passengers.

“It’s good news that the coalition government continues to recognise the need for sustained and targeted investment in the railways, even during tough economic times.”