THE NORTH-East and Scotland have signed a deal aimed at improving transport across the border.

Scottish Infrastructure Secretary Keith Brown travelled to Newcastle to sign a Memorandum of Understanding on improving the transport network across Scotland and the north.

The deal means Scotland will have a say in the Northern Transport Strategy currently being drawn up as part of the Government’s Northern Powerhouse initiative and aims to “radically enhance transport connectivity”.

Mr Brown said: "Extending a high speed rail link to Scotland will ensure that businesses in Scotland and the north of England are able to compete and grow, as well as boosting vital supply chain economies.

“We recognise the strong connection we have with our neighbours in the north of England and that there are important flows of labour and goods across the border.

“Investment on one side of that border can affect economic outcomes on the other and we can maximise the return on investment by sharing views, aspirations and plans."

Newcastle City Council leader Nick Forbes, a board member of Transport for the North, added: “In the north of England we are determined to take charge of our transport needs and ensure investment is directed to create more and better jobs.

“Transport for the North gives for the first time our businesses and communities a say in how our roads, railways and other transport links are developed for the future.

“Better connections to Scotland as well as between our major cities in the north will be vital in transforming our economies.”