Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the High-Level Output Specification and Statement of Funds Available for the railways, published on 1 December 2022, on what date he expects (a) to publish the next iteration of the Rail Network Enhancements Pipeline and (b) to make a statement on proposed improvements to Chester railway station.

Following the Autumn Statement on 17 November we are in the process of reviewing the Rail Network Enhancements Pipeline (RNEP) and will make the outcome public once that work is complete.

Having provided feedback on an initial Strategic Outline Business Case submitted by Cheshire West and Chester Council for enhancements at and around Chester Station, DfT officials look forward to receiving and considering an updated proposal from local stakeholders by March 2023.