Manchester to Sheffield tunnel routes shortlisted

Manchester to Sheffield tunnel routes shortlisted Credit: Department for Transport

Five routes have been shortlisted today, August 18, for the Trans-Pennine tunnel – the most ambitious road scheme undertaken in the UK in more than 50 years.

The tunnel between Manchester and Sheffield could be a national first and almost halve journey times between the two cities.

All five routes join the M60 east of Manchester to the M1 north of Sheffield, with four options starting at the M67, and will see journeys cut by 30 minutes.

The tunnel could provide an economic boost to the two cities as well as the surrounding area. The link would help protect the environment by reducing traffic through the Peak District National Park, as well as support the government’s plan to build a Northern Powerhouse.

Transport Minister John Hayes said: