Passenger Boost Sparks Change

By NEIL HODGSON

NEW trains could be running on Merseyside’s rail network sooner than expected.

The deal on the current 57-strong fleet runs until 2015 when Merseyrail and transport authority Merseytravel had planned to lease new rolling stock.

But rising passenger numbers and plans to boost off-peak passenger numbers by 50% could mean the renewal programme is brought forward by five years.

Discussions will now be held with leasing company Angel Trains.

Merseyrail managing director Patrick Verwer revealed: "We want 50% more off peak passengers in the next two or three years compared with 2003 when we began the Merseyside concession.

"With 2008 coming up we are expecting more and more passengers, anyway.

"By 2009 we will run out of capacity with passenger growth at the moment, so we might bring new rolling stock forward.

"It depends on the commercial success of the business, so it is important we grow and get more passengers – standing still is not an option."

Merseyrail is also set to unveil a five-year strategy which will put passenger service at its heart.

Mr Verwer said the Serco Ned Railways consortium has concentrated on building the solid foundation of a "healthy public transport rail service" since it took on the 25-year Merseyrail franchise back in 2003.

He added: "Now is the time to move on and step up and turn it from a train moving company into a service provider.

"We want to make it the company of choice under the banner, ‘Merseryail more than just a journey’."

He said frontline staff will also be encouraged to make passengers feel more welcome.

"Together with Merseytravel, we are building a new railway."

neilhodgson@liverpoolecho.co.uk

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