Planned new rapid transport link on show

The 'glider' would speed up journeys to the likes of the airport and Anfield

Author: Harry BoothPublished 19th Aug 2024

A planned new 'rapid' transport link for the Liverpool City Region is on show this week.

The 'glider' is going to be tested on key routes to see if changes need to be made to accommodate them.

It was showcased outside Anfield this morning, and will also appear at:

  • Seacombe Ferry Terminal - Tuesday 20 August between 9am and 3pm
  • Mann Island - Wednesday 21 August between 9am and 3pm
  • St Helens Town Centre - Thursday 22 August between 9am and 3pm
  • Green Oaks Shopping Centre in Widnes - Friday 23 August between 9am and 3pm

The aim is to have the vehicles to speed up journey times to Liverpool John Lennon Airport, Anfield and Everton's new stadium at Bramley Moore Dock by 2028.

The 18-metre articulated vehicle can carry around 30% more passengers than an average double-decker bus.

It has been loaned from Northern Ireland, where a fleet of 34 serves Belfast.

Similar services could be rolled out to other parts of the city region currently not served by the rail network - including one serving the Wirral Waters Development.

Steve Rotheram, Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said:

"The Liverpool City Region is a well-established – and growing – magnet for visitors from around the world with our unique mix of music, culture, hospitality and sport.

"Millions of people pass through John Lennon Airport, many of them on their way to Anfield and, in future, to Bramley Moore. But one of the things people always tell me is that they need better links to these important places.

"A more pleasant travelling experience"

"As part of my plans to build a London-style transport system, that is something I am committed to addressing. I was just re-elected on a promise to look at delivering a ‘glider’ style rapid link that will make getting to the airport and the football much faster, more efficient and, above all, a more pleasant travelling experience.

"This is the first time the glider will be seen on our streets – but I’ll make sure they’re up and running serving passengers in time for the Euros in 2028.

"This is not the end of the story either. I remain committed to building the world class transport system our region deserves. Having a glider doesn’t mean that we won’t one day see a tram or rail station at the airport, but is an outstanding solution that will make an immediate difference to getting people around."

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