Deal to be signed to transform Merseyside's public transport network
The agreement supports mayor Steve Rotherham's plans for a simpler, more affordable public transport system
Passengers across Merseyside could soon benefit from a simpler, more affordable and integrated transport network, with an agreement due to be signed by Transport Secretary Mark Harper and Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram.
The Memorandum of Understanding commits to the Government working in closer collaboration with the city region to deliver plans for a fully integrated public transport system in Merseyside. Signatories included the Transport Secretary, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, Network Rail and the Great British Railways Transition Team.
The agreement could pave the way for easier, cheaper and more accessible journeys across the city, providing better connectivity to jobs, education and business opportunities in Liverpool.
The agreement will be signed at the official opening of Headbolt Lane - the country’s newest train station in Kirkby.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: “Today’s agreement demonstrates this Government’s commitment to transforming public transport across the country and empowering elected leaders to make decisions based on the priorities of local people.
“This agreement follows over a billion pounds of funding committed to the city through our Network North plans and will kickstart transport improvements for people across the city, making journeys affordable and accessible for all.”
Headbolt Lane station is the new terminus for Merseyrail and Northern services.
It will be served by new state-of-the-art trains equipped with innovative battery technology, which are currently being developed and rolled out across the entire Merseyrail fleet, as part of plans to double capacity on the network and deliver greener, more reliable services.
Mayor of the Liverpool City Region Steve Rotheram said: “This deal signifies not only a massive moment for our region – but the start of a new wave of devolution for the country. It puts us on track to open up the right conversations around how we can improve our rail network for the better and run it in the best interests of passengers.
“It’s the Liverpool City Region once again blazing a trail in the revolution of our railways – and I’ll be fighting our area’s corner every step of the way to make sure we capitalise on this opportunity.”