A NEW report reveals that the gap on government transport spending between London and the North over the past decade has widened to £66billion.

The think-tank IPPR North’s analysis shows that, unless the promised Northern Powerhouse investment materialises, the capital will receive three times more Whitehall cash for road, bus and rail than the region under current plans.

The report’s author, Luke Raikes, said London will get the equivalent of £3,636 per person, the North as a whole just £1,247, and the North West £2,062.

The study shows a comprehensive picture of planned spending included in the most recent list of the government’s planned infrastructure projects between now and 2033.

Mr Raikes said:“These figures show that the Prime Minister must urgently follow through on his promises to invest in northern transport. The spending review offers an opportunity for the government to turn years of Northern Powerhouse rhetoric into reality.”

Northern Powerhouse Minister and Rossendale and Darwen MP Jake Berry said: “These figurer are incorrect. Transport spending per head in the North of England is higher than any other region.

“We have invested in the Manchester to Clitheroe line via Blackburn and Darwen, the M60 to reduce traffic on the M66, and we are investing in the M62. This is the Northern Powerhouse in action and this investment will continue.”