Merseyrail: Powers to improve local network devolved

Mayor Steve Rotheram signed the devolution deal on Thursday

A rail devolution deal could pave the way for better timetables, stations and network infrastructure on Merseyside, the region's mayor has said.

Steve Rotheram said the deal would see the region "take back control of its local rail network".

The agreement was signed with Transport Secretary Mark Harper on Thursday.

Mr Harper said it demonstrated the government's "commitment to transforming public transport".

Mr Rotheram said the memorandum of understanding, signed as Kirkby opened its new £80m station, marked a "significant step" in the delivery of Merseyrail for All, a plan to extend the local rail network.

"From the world's first passenger railway powered by Stephenson's Rocket to the Dockers' Umbrella, our region has been leading the transformation of Britain's railways for centuries," he said.

"This deal signifies not only a massive moment for our region - but the start of a new wave of devolution for the country.

"It puts us on track to open up the right conversations around how we can improve our rail network for the better and run it in the best interests of passengers."

The region was the first area outside London to take control of its local rail network with the Merseyrail concession in 2003 and earlier this year launched its £500m publicly owned trains into service.

Merseyrail's new fleet of trains, ordered in 2016, started to come on track in January

Despite the new fleet being under public ownership, the current structure means Network Rail is the incumbent owner and operator.

Under the new agreement, discussions could take place about how to better integrate infrastructure and regeneration opportunities between the rail industry, the Liverpool Combined Authority and the region's six local authorities.

Mr Harper said the agreement "demonstrates this government's commitment to transforming public transport across the country and empowering elected leaders to make decisions based on the priorities of local people".

He added that the deal would "kickstart transport improvements for people across the city, making journeys affordable and accessible for all".