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Liverpool City Region Long
Term Rail Strategy update review
AN updated Long Term Rail Strategy was
presented to the Liverpool City Region Transport Committee, on Thursday, 2
November 2017, for its endorsement. Taking into account national and local
developments which will impact the future delivery of the Strategy, the update
reviews the overall programme of projects, takes stock of what has already been
achieved, and considers how new projects might be prioritised.
It is also an
opportunity to incorporate a number of projects which were not started prior to
the initial Strategy, including:- HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail, and to ensure
that the growing importance of cross border transport demand is incorporated.
The capacity challenge at Liverpool Central Station and the significance of the
station in relation to developments on the Merseyrail and wider rail network is
also emphasised.
The update highlights the significant progress that has already been made over
the last 3 years with projects either delivered, or in the process of being
delivered, by Liverpool City Region and other external parties, including:- the
Halton Curve upgrade, a new Station, at Maghull North, a Station upgrade at
Newton-le-Willows, commitment for a new rolling stock fleet and the
redevelopment of Liverpool Lime Street Station.
Cllr Liam Robinson, chair of The Combined Authority Transport Committee, which
oversees the work of Merseytravel, said:- "It's important that we are
realistic about our long term rail aspirations and our ambitious plans to
provide an improved network for the future, meeting passenger needs and boosting
economic opportunity. Whilst we already enjoy good levels of service there is
more that we can do to provide increased capacity and frequencies, which would
support projected economic growth and maximise the economic Benefits of the City
Region's assets and potential."
The Liverpool City Region Long Term Rail Strategy was adopted by the Combined
Authority in September 2014 with the objective of ensuring that the rail network
meets the region's needs over the next 30 years and beyond. It presents a clear
vision for the development of the network and the important role that rail will
play in the economic development of Liverpool City Region and its surrounding
areas, maximising its contribution to the wider UK economy and acting as a
catalyst for growth.
What are your views on this topic? Hoe do you
think Transport should work in the likes of Southport, Formby and also the likes
of West Kirby and Birkenhead? Please email your thoughts to
News24@SouthportReporter.com and let us know as we want to hear for
our readers on this topic.
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