00:00Liverpool City Region is investigating the potential for public ownership of Mersey Rail
00:05ahead of the contract expiry in 2028. The Combined Authority, led by Metro Mayor Steve Rotherham,
00:13commissioned analysis last year of different operating models including an in-house public
00:18network, extended private contracts and hybrid options. Findings suggest public ownership could
00:26deliver improved integration with buses, ferries, active travel and station services across the six
00:32local authority areas. Any transition would require governance structures, stakeholder engagement and
00:40coordination with the Department for Transport and passenger groups. A full assessment of risks,
00:46costs and delivery plans will be reported later in the year. Should a decision favour public control,
00:52Transport for Liverpool City Region will take over management, rebranding Mersey Travel and
00:58coordinating across all transport modes. Funding is likely to include ongoing Department for Transport
01:04support alongside local investment. The plan aims to maintain reliability, efficiency and affordability,
01:12building on previous improvements including new stations, contactless ticketing and ferry upgrades.
01:18Passenger-focused integration and expanded services are central to proposals designed to enhance travel
01:25and connectivity across Liverpool.
Comments