The ORR called for the extra infrastructure cash in its initial response to Network Rail’s spending plans for the five years from 1 April 2024 – known as Control Period 7 (CP7).

Revised proposals show total spending plans of £43.1bn across the UK with more money set aside for core infrastructure spending.

The regulator said: “ORR welcomes Network Rail’s increase in spending on renewing core assets (such as track, structures and earthworks).

“ORR considers that Network Rail has a suitable framework to understand and manage the change in risk from carrying out fewer renewals and a move to greater maintenance of existing assets.”

Network Rail will now flesh-out delivery plans for the CP& investment programme.