Regional leaders have confirmed a rail project in the North of England with first improvements taking place in Yorkshire.
The long-awaited Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) project will see a whopping £45 billion worth of upgrades.
The first phase will see the construction of a new station in Bradford followed by upgrades in Leeds, York and Sheffield.
The electrification of lines between Sheffield and Leeds, Leeds and York and Leeds and Bradford will be the first priority and is expected to be completed in the 2030s.
The scheme has been described as "a once in a generation commitment to improving transport across the North".
Announcing the scheme, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: "I spent three happy years in Leeds as a university student, a vibrant city I was proud to call home, but I've seen first-hand what underinvestment and empty pledges do to cities across the North.
"This government is rolling up its sleeves to deliver real, lasting change for millions of people through a major new rail network across the North that will deliver faster, more frequent services."
"This cycle has to end. No more paying lip service to the potential of the North, but backing it to the hilt. That's why this government is rolling up its sleeves to deliver real, lasting change for millions of people through Northern Powerhouse Rail: a major new rail network across the North that will deliver faster, more frequent services."
Stage two of the plan will include upgrades around Manchester, with the final stage delivering a new railway between Bradford and Huddersfield that wouldn't be delivered until the 2040s.
In a combined statement, the regional mayors of West, South and North Yorkshire said: "The long-term commitment will transform Yorkshire's transport network and deliver improved links across our region and on to Manchester, Liverpool, and Newcastle.
"It'll mean we can deliver quicker, more reliable journeys, opening up more choice around work, skills and opportunity for everyone across Yorkshire."
After years in the making, Signature Mall Bradford will be opening in the heart of the city.
Signature Mall is one of the UK’s most anticipated Asian retail and lifestyle destinations that will officially be opening its doors this Saturday 16 May.
This is a major milestone for the city, bringing together a mix of premium South Asian fashion, jewellery, beauty, dining, and lifestyle brands all under one roof.
It's a huge step for the city as the new opening is expected to attract thousands of visitors from all over the country.
Images: Supplied
The space has been designed to deliver a modern and seamless shopping experience, featuring a total of 45 vendors all in one mall.
You'll be able to find everything from premium jewellery and bridal retailers to family-friendly leisure facilities and beauty brands.
There will also be a large food and drink offering.
The opening of Signature Mall is also expected to generate new employment opportunities and provide a platform for both established and emerging businesses within the South Asian retail sector.
Signature Mall representatives have said: “Signature Mall is more than just a shopping destination, it is a celebration of culture, community, and entrepreneurship. We are proud to bring this exciting new development to Bradford and look forward to welcoming visitors from across the region and beyond.”
The Signature Mall will be located on Preston Street in Bradford and you can find more about it here via their website.
An exhibition celebrating 70 years of Eurovision is heading to Bradford later this month
Thomas Melia
There's a brand new exhibition taking place in a major museum right in the centre of Bradford, celebrating 70 years of Eurovision.
Kicking off on Friday 15 May at the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford this latest instalment is titled 'Setting the Stage: 70 years of the Eurovision Song Contest'.
This new exhibition is dedicated to spotlighting iconic moments that have occurred throughout the annual music event's seven decade history.
It isn't just a chance to see and learn about all things Eurovision, there's also opportunities for you to get involved as this is an interactive experience.
Anyone paying a visit to this museum in Bradford will be able to put on a performance or two with a pop-up stage as well as voting in the Nil Points Jukebox.
This new exhibition taking place in a major museum right in the centre of Bradford is celebrating 70 years of Eurovision / Credit: Wikimedia Commons / Wikimedia Commons via supplied
In true National Science and Media Museum style, this exhibition devles into the music that has formed Eurovision's legacy as well as showing off all the impressive technical innovations and advancements.
Get up close and personal with gadgets like a Shure Duraplex headset that helps artists deliver groundbreaking performances without the need of a handheld microphone.
And step back in time by observing a Marconi Mk III camera head, which was used for broadcasts during the 50's, a real revelation of its time.
There will be content from fans and professionals who have contributed to the live music show in many ways, from outfits to hosts and of course the varying performers who captivate us every single year.
The main focus of this exhibition is the evolution of technology and production throughout Eurovision Song Contest's history, however music and performance are also acknowledged too.
Officially, the Eurovision Song Contest final will take place on Saturday 16 May and this Bradford museum is hosting a 'Setting the Stage: Live' event on this very date.
Expect a big family party with live music, a silent disco and a range of engaging activities like crafts and face-painting to get you into the Eurovision spirit.
If you're interested in celebrating 70 years of Eurovision by checking out 'Setting the Stage', you can find tickets and more info HERE.
Clementine Hall -
14th January 2026 
