Home Local News Work starts to upgrade platforms on the Merseyrail network

Work starts to upgrade platforms on the Merseyrail network

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A programme of platform upgrades is about to begin to prepare the Merseyrail network for the arrival in 2020 of new, state of the art trains that will transform how people travel.

The phased programme of upgrades will take place between October 2018 and June 2019, starting with

Phase one on the Northern Line.

Phase one will see work take place from 20th October to 28th October at stations between Ormskirk and Walton and from 29th October to 9th November at stations between Ormskirk and Old Roan. Where stations are closed rail replacement buses will be in operation, information will be available at stations.

Passengers are advised to visit www.merseyrail.org/itshappening for more information.

The second phase of work will take place between 12th November and 16th December at Bank Hall station. Rail replacement buses will be in operation and information will be available at stations closer to the time.

These vital works, delivered by Network Rail, will involve upgrading existing platforms and realigning tracks to ensure that they are compatible with the new trains and their ground breaking, sliding step technology that will provide unassisted access for all.

This means 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.

There will be 11 phases of work between October 2018 and June 2019. Only short sections of line will be closed at any one time, with all stations on that section closed. Closures will vary in duration, but most will be between nine and 30 days at a time.

High quality, rail replacement buses will get passengers to where they need to go as quickly as possible and some of these will be express services.

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.

More detailed information will be made available in advance of each phase and travellers will be encouraged to plan ahead, stick to public transport and consider their travel options including commercial bus services and the Mersey Ferries.

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

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