In its submission, TfN also suggests “extending NPR and HS2 services north to Scotland” along with ensuring that “key Northern stations such as Preston, Carlisle, Darlington and Newcastle are fully HS2 ready”. The submission adds: “West Coast Mainline capacity improvements and ensuring connectivity from stations along the route can be enhanced (as outlined within our STP) We also strongly support efforts to improve the East Coast Mainline (ECML) between Newcastle and Scotland, extending NPR services to Edinburgh via ECML to connect the key financial centres of Edinburgh, Newcastle and Leeds.” Other opportunities identified by TfN include clear investment plans for key road connections and cross-border freight options.