Andy Burnham calls for greater transport investment to drive economic growth

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has urged central government to prioritise transport investment as a key driver of economic growth, accusing Whitehall of focusing too heavily on cost-cutting rather than long-term development.

Speaking at the Interchange 2026 conference in Manchester, Burnham questioned whether national policymakers fully understand the role transport plays in supporting economic expansion.

“Does Whitehall understand the critical importance of transport to a growing economy?” he asked. “In my almost decade as Mayor, I would have to say to you, no, I don’t think it does.”

Burnham criticised what he described as a mindset in government that prioritises minimising spending over maximising economic benefit.

“They don’t start by asking ‘How can this transport scheme maximise growth?’ They start by asking ‘How can we spend as little money as possible – or not do it at all?’,” he said.

Referencing major national infrastructure spending decisions, he added: “That mentality is why we got billions spent on a tunnel under fields in the Chilterns… but resistance to building an underground station in the fastest growing city region in the UK.”

Transport and economic growth

Burnham argued that Greater Manchester’s economic performance demonstrates the importance of investing in transport infrastructure. He said the city region is currently growing at roughly twice the national rate and credited its extensive Metrolink light rail network as a key factor.

“We’re the fastest growing city region in the UK… and it’s no coincidence that we have the largest light rail system in the UK, which has been the foundation for Manchester’s modern growth,” he said.

He also emphasised the role of integrated transport in supporting inclusive economic development.

“Roads get you growth. Public transport gets you good growth,” Burnham said, adding that “good growth” means ensuring people can easily reach areas where employment opportunities are concentrated.

Call for funding reform and stronger devolution

Burnham concluded by calling for transport funding to be treated as essential national economic infrastructure, arguing that investment should be protected in the same way as other key government departments.

“Transport funding should be like a protected department in Whitehall,” he said. “You cannot have growth without it.”

He also reiterated his support for greater devolution, suggesting that local leadership has been key to driving growth in city regions.

“Before devolution, Whitehall had no ambition for the city regions of the UK,” he said. “We set the ambition. We got the growth going.”