Mayor sets out 10-minute rail service plan

MERSEYRAIL could eventually "have 10-minute services" - that's the aim of Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram, who has confirmed his plan to take over the whole Merseyrail network - including stations, tracks and signalling.

- BY LIAM THORP

Mayor Steve Rotheram with a Merseyrail train

(Andrew Teebay)

Mayor Rotheram expanded on his plan to change how the region's rail network operates as part of a wider vision for a fully integrated public transport system.

Currently, the franchise for operating Merseyrail trains is held by Merseyrail Electrics which is a joint venture between companies Serco Group and Transport UK, but that deal runs out in 2028.

That franchise could be renewed, but Mayor Rotheram has long said that the city region should get a greater share of the revenues driven by Merseyrail that would be invested back into the transport network.