Information about the next three phases of platform upgrades to prepare the Merseyrail network for the arrival of new, state of the art trains in 2020 is now available to help people plan their journeys.



Network Rail is just days away from completing works for Phase 2 at Bank Hall station on the Southport line.

Upgrades involve altering the height and width of station platforms and realigning track. This is vital to ensure the new trains’ sliding step can meet the platform edge, providing better access for all passengers.

Phases

There are 11 phases of work scheduled until June 2019. During each phase, some stations will be temporarily closed however high quality, rail replacement buses will keep passengers moving.

A summary of the next three phases are below and passengers are advised that further information including timetables is available at Merseyrail stations and on the Merseyrail website.

Phase 3: Wirral loop line: James St, Moorfields, Lime St, Liverpool Central stations, from 27 December 2018 – 2 January 2019

Commercial buses and the Mersey Ferries may be a good cross-river option.

Phase 4: Kirkby line: Kirkby, Fazakerley and Rice Lane stations, from 5 – 13 January.

Phase 5: Hunts Cross line: Brunswick to Hunts Cross, starting with one day of work on 19 January, then 21 -26 January 2019.

Sandhills to Hunts Cross (including Liverpool Central), from 20 and 27 January 2019

More information about Phases 6 to 11 including rail replacement bus services and alternative travel options will be available a few weeks before the start of each phase.

Key advice:

Check before you travel, especially during the Christmas period as timetables may change.
Plan ahead – use journey planners.
Leave more time for your journey.
Consider avoiding travelling at peak times where possible.
Consider your options –including commercial buses and the Mersey Ferries.
These vital works need to happen to ensure that station platforms across the Merseyrail network are compatible with the new trains and their ground breaking, sliding step technology that will provide unassisted access for all.

This will mean that wheelchair users can board the train without a ramp and passengers with prams and cycles can get on and off the train with ease. This technology represents a pioneering approach for the UK.

Merseytravel, Merseyrail and Network Rail have worked collaboratively on this project and significant planning work has been carried out to minimise the time needed to complete these important works and reduce disruption to passengers.

Businesses and organisations are advised to think about what they may need to put in place to support staff and customers.