A RAILWAY consultancy has unveiled a vision for grassroots train services across the North.

Transport Research and Information Network (TR&IN) has called for a high-quality passenger service using new trains.

In a strategy document, titled Northern Trains: Developing the Regional Network, the group suggests that an expanded network of urban and rural services should feed into major stations.

Other proposals include:

l In rural areas, several lines and stations should be re-opened, including the Wensleydale Railway and Weardale line.

l New trains suitable for lower density operations should be introduced, based on proven designs from the Continent.

l A growing network of bus services connecting with the rail network.

l Stations should be progressively re-staffed and in some cases rebuilt to higher standards.

The report comes in advance of the Government's Shadow Strategic Rail Authority's (SSRA) plans to merge the two existing North of England rail franchises, operated by Northern Spirit and First North Western, into one franchise.

The report's author, Dr Paul Salveson, said: "Now is the time to influence decisions which will set the direction of rail services for the next 20 years. It is vital that bidders for the franchise present proposals which are based on quality and best value, not cost reduction."

North-East public transport company Arriva, which owns Northern Spirit, is planning to bid for the new North franchise when it becomes available. It already has a bid in for the Trans-Pennine Express franchise.

Its current contract to run local rail services in the North-East will end on February 18, 2001, but it is anticipated that the company will continue running the service in a management capacity until the SSRA invites bids for the full North franchise.

A spokesperson said: "We are a Northern-based company, with strong roots in this region. We believe we have a good bid with opportunities going forward for the Trans-Pennine Express."

Future changes in regional rail franchises are unlikely to have an immediate impact on passenger services