Prime Highlights:
- £1.6 billion investment will transform public transport across Liverpool City Region, including new railway stations and rapid transit links.
- New Daresbury station and upgraded Runcorn station expected to support around 8,000 new jobs and improve connectivity to Sci-Tech Daresbury.
Key Facts:
- Network improvements will increase access to Liverpool city centre and step-free stations by 20%.
- Active travel upgrades include a new cycle route from Widnes to St Helens, supporting homes and businesses.
Background:
Liverpool City Region will get its biggest-ever public transport upgrade with a £1.6 billion investment. Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram outlined plans for new railway stations, faster transit links, and smart ticketing across the network.
The Transport for City Region (TCR) funding, secured in June and confirmed by the chancellor, aims to connect communities more effectively, support major housing developments, boost productivity, and drive economic growth. The city region, which includes Halton, is leading the way with these forward-looking initiatives.
A key part of the plan is building a new railway station in Daresbury and upgrading Runcorn station. This will expand the rail network and create a direct link to Sci-Tech Daresbury, which could support around 8,000 new jobs.
The investment also includes improvements for walking and cycling, such as a new cycle route from Widnes to St Helens, to make it easier to reach homes and businesses. Network upgrades are projected to increase the number of residents able to reach Liverpool city centre by public transport within 30 minutes by 20 percent. Similarly, access to step-free rail stations for residents within 800 meters is expected to rise by the same margin.
Mayor Rotheram emphasized the long-term vision for the region: “This £1.6 billion settlement is the largest transport investment in our region’s history. It is a massive statement of intent towards delivering a greener, more accessible, and better-connected public transport system that our 1.6 million residents deserve.”
The plans also focus on inclusive growth, ensuring that new stations, rapid transit links, and smart ticketing systems connect communities directly to jobs, cultural attractions, and major regeneration projects. A key goal is to support the construction of thousands of new homes in areas well-connected to major employers and the region’s growing industries.
The proposals are expected to be reviewed by the combined authority this month, marking the next step in a transformative transport overhaul for the Liverpool City Region.
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