The Department told us it was discussing with HM Treasury whether Northern Powerhouse Rail would be designated a mega-project. It said its key concern was how to get the benefits of the mega-project governance reforms as well as the benefits of organising the programme as phased projects. The Department told us it would ensure clear decision-making and partnership working with all parts of Government, regardless of whether Northern Powerhouse Rail gains formal mega-project designation or not.39 Working with local government