Liverpool Lime Street remodelling at centre of Merseyside rail investment

Network Rail has presented its three-year programme to upgrade rail services in the Liverpool City Region.

At the heart of the £340 million programme is a major package of works to remodel Liverpool Lime Street station, which will require the station to close for a period in 2017 and again in 2018.

The project will include the creation of two new platforms between the existing platforms seven and eight.

Network Rail, as part of its CP5 enhancements budget, will contribute £229 million, with the Liverpool City Region providing the remaining £111 million.

Other projects include the completion of the final phase of the Merseyrail loop, construction of an additional section of track between Huyton and Roby to separate slower local services from faster trains, a new station at Maghull North and upgrading the Halton Curve to support new services between Liverpool and Chester.

Martin Frobisher, route managing director for Network Rail, said: “Our aim over the next three years is to give the people of Liverpool the high-quality rail services they deserve.

“With demand for rail travel expected to rise by 50 per cent over the coming years, these improvements are vital for the future growth and prosperity of this great city region.”