SMART ticketing using microchips rather than paper tickets is a step closer to being introduced across the North of England after new laws were passed.

The Cities and Local Government Devolution Act means Transport for the North (TfN) can take over powers and funding from central government to oversee improvements to the North's transport network.

TfN said it would now draw up plans for the powers it needs. These will include:

- Powers to create a statutory northern transport strategy, setting out priorities for investment in the North’s inter-city road and rail network.

- Powers to coordinate and prioritise a new system of smart and integrated ticketing across the North.

- Powers to coordinate and oversee the delivery of new cross-northern transport investments.

- Developing the role and powers of Rail North.

Commenting on this opportunity, TfN Chair John Cridland said: “TfN began as a partnership between the northern cities, determined to improve transport infrastructure and services across the north of England, to grow the economy and create new business opportunities.

“With the passage of this Act of Parliament, TfN can now move our partnership to a new level, speaking with one voice for the whole of the north, and with the legal powers we need to deliver on those ambitions.

"This is a big step forward for devolution, and a great opportunity to transform the connectivity of communities across the north."

Transport Minister Andrew Jones said: “Our changes, plus the £50 million we are giving Transport for the North (TfN) up to 2020, underlines the government’s commitment to building a Northern Powerhouse.

"This is a major step forward in making TfN a statutory body, giving local people a say in transport for their area."

The passage of the Cities and Local Government Devolution Act comes ahead of the publication of the Northern Transport Strategy in March 2016, a joint publication from TfN and government which will outline investment priorities for improving the transport network.