The company operating Merseyrail's network could be in line for a contract extension. The joint venture of Serco and then Abellio, known as Merseyrail Electrics (2002) Ltd, was awarded a concession to run the region's trains in 2003.
As this deal nears its end in 2028, city region leaders are set to begin deliberations on who should provide services for the thousands of daily rail passengers. Councillors meeting at Mann Island this week will consider an option that could lead to a five-year extension of the existing rail contract.
A report to be discussed at the meeting suggests it is "appropriate to investigate options for the future operating model to ensure that a decision is taken in good time."
Merseyrail has submitted an extension proposal, which if approved, would allow combined authority officers to negotiate with the company regarding the appraisal and development of an extension. Initial discussions with Merseyrail suggest "there could be a number of significant benefits from the proposal over and above the existing agreement" including service enhancements, a more favourable financial model, and better alignment with Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram's integrated transport model.
The documents add: "Merseyrail has a strong record of achievement across measures such as public performance measure, customer satisfaction and providing assistance to passengers with accessibility needs – all of which have been at the top or near the top of industry league tables, and as a result they would like to extend their relationship with us."
With substantial public funding from the Department for Transport (DfT) via the Special Rail Grant, future deliberations on Merseyrail’s operational model will mean consultations with government. If the authority does proceed with an extension or a new operating model for Merseyrail – while pursuing more devolution of services and stations – then that would bring more trains and stations under Merseyrail and/or the Combined Authority's ownership or operation.
The existing document proposes that members should support a full review and comparison of the proposed expansion against other options available to the Combined Authority.
Don't miss the latest news and analysis with our regular North West newsletters – sign up here for free
