The IRP is designed to deliver and sequence major rail investment in the North and Midlands that will see various upgrades, including electrification of some key lines.
However, a report from the Transport Committee has found that the plan has not properly tested alternative options for transforming stations and city centres in key Northern cities.
It accuses the Department for Transport of leaving out key elements of analysis of the wider economic impacts of the different options which means that value for money and economic return cannot be properly considered.
The Committee wants a full analysis of the wider economic impacts and a benefit-cost ratio, for the different Northern Powerhouse Rail options.
If the results demonstrate that other options offer better value and outcomes for the taxpayer, economy and the communities directly impacted, MPs on the Committee urge the government to make the necessary changes.
The revised Eastern leg of HS2 Phase...