Plans unveiled for three new Merseyrail train stations
Two of the region's boroughs would get their first-ever station served by Merseyrail trains
Plans have been unveiled to build three new Merseyrail train stations by the end of this decade.
Mayor Steve Rotheram wants new stations at Daresbury in Halton, Carr Mill in St Helens and Woodchurch on the Wirral, in what would be the biggest expansion to the rail network in decades.
Mayor Rotheram said:
"Any modern, thriving region is only as good as its public transport. Since I’ve been Mayor, I’ve worked around the clock to give our region what Londoners get to enjoy every day: a reliable, accessible, affordable and integrated network that helps, rather than hinders people getting about.
"But I know that in some parts of our region, Liverpool can feel as distant and inaccessible as London. I’m working to put that right, bringing local people closer to each other and to the opportunities we’re creating.
"My record is in stark contrast the Conservatives in government. While they’ve stripped back investment in decent rail infrastructure, such as HS2, I’ve opened two new stations already – with one more under construction and three more about to join them. We’ve bought half a billion pounds worth of brand new trains and are taking back control of the local network too."
This links in with the Mayor's plans to take back control of the region's bus network to build an integrated transport system.
Cllr David Baines, Leader of St Helens Borough Council, said:
"Improving public transport in St Helens is a top priority for us all, and bringing Merseyrail here is a key part of our ambitions. Carr Mill will be a game changer not just for the Haresfinch and Moss Bank area but wider communities too, connecting our borough to the Merseyrail network and making travel easier for residents.
"It’s an exciting opportunity and Steve’s commitment to it - in partnership with our Labour Council - shows what Labour in power can achieve."
Cllr Mike Wharton, Leader of Halton Borough Council, said:
"Over the past few years, we’ve seen how new train stations in our city region can be a catalyst for regeneration and connect people with opportunity so it's fantastic that Steve Rotheram has announced Daresbury is in line for a new station on the Merseyrail network.
"While the Tories run down our public transport network – our Labour council, working with a Labour Mayor, are working together to revitalise public transport in Halton and across the city region."
Cllr Paul Stuart, Leader of Wirral Borough Council, said:
"Woodchurch has long been identified as a prime location for a new train station and I am delighted that Steve has announced this addition to our local rail network. This project will support the wider regeneration work in Wirral to further improve access to public transport across the borough.
"Trains provide our residents with a vital transport link to the outside world and it is great to see Steve demonstrate his our ambition for our area with an investment that will connect people to jobs, training opportunities and each other for years to come."