The government has launched a consultation document on the future of rail transportation in the north.

Passengers from across the region are being invited to put forward their views on how services should be delivered as investment is rolled out for the Northern and Transpennine Express franchises. 

Extensive improvements are being carried out over the next few years, with electrification of routes and other upgrades taking place as part of the government's £1 billion investment in the northern network.

This investment will lay the groundwork for up to 700 extra trains every day and 44 million additional passengers a year, improving services across the north. Passengers and business commuters will benefit from better journeys, improved connections and more modern trains.

Rail minister Stephen Hammond said it is vital to hear the views of passengers in order to provide a world-class rail service.

"This is further proof of our commitment to put passengers at the heart of our railways," he added.