Clegg said he was calling on the Chancellor to fund ambitious plans for major transport upgrades in the next Autumn statement.

The deputy prime minister said he wanted to see a fully upgraded and electrified network between Manchester, Leeds and Sheffield by 2025.

He also wants to extend the full stretch of the M62 between Manchester and Leeds to eight lanes using the “smart” motorway model.

Speaking today at the Northern Futures Summit, he said: “London and South East has had billions of transport investment over recent years from HS1 to Crossrail to the Northern Line extension.

“The perfectly reasonable requests I have been hearing from the north are basics that are needed if we are to create a true economic hub in the north of England.

“The north needs improved transport now. The roads and railway lines connecting our great northern cities have seen improvements in recent years, but I want more. Much more.”

He added: “I want a fully upgraded and electrified network between Manchester, Leeds and Sheffield by 2025.

“This is not just about rail. We need to build on the announcements already made to improve road links such as the M62.

“I want to go further, starting by extending the full stretch of the M62 between Manchester and Leeds to 8 lanes using the “smart” motorway model, and having a programme of improvements for the Woodhead Pass (A618/A626) between Manchester and Sheffield.

“I will push to see these in the upcoming Roads Investment Strategy for completion by 2025.”