A popular UK city has confirmed plans to create a new train station that could boost public transportation infrastructure in the area.
At a Liverpool City Region Combined Authority meeting, plans to build the Liverpool Baltic train station received overwhelming support, allowing organisers to submit a planning application to the city’s council.
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, is one of the station’s supporters, stating that it will help to boost the whole Merseyrail system.
He explained: “I’ve always said that a world-class transport network is key to unlocking the full potential of our region – and that’s exactly what we’re building.
“This new station at Liverpool Baltic is just another step on the journey towards making our Merseyrail system bigger, better, and more accessible for everyone.”
Located in the city’s bustling Baltic Triangle area of the city centre, the Liverpool Baltic train station will be built on the same site as the Liverpool St James station, which ran from 1874 to 1917.
Following the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s meeting, organisers, who have had plans to open the new station since 2012, will be able to submit a planning application and get approval from the Department for Transport.
If Liverpool Baltic gets the green light, construction work is due to begin in 2025, with the Mayor stating plans to have the station running by 2027.
According to the £96 million plan, Liverpool Baltic will feature waiting areas for passengers, a secure location for parking bicycles, and accessible toilets.
The station is also expected to offer step-free access from the train to the street in a bid to support low-mobility residents.
In addition, the organisers have highlighted that part of the fund will be spent on improving infrastructure around the new train station, creating a number of pedestrianised zones and cycle lanes to encourage greener forms of transportation.
Mr Rotherham also hinted at a number of other projects for the area in the pipeline, highlighting that all parts of the country should have good access to public transportation.
He added: “We’re investing nearly £100 million into a station that’s going to change the face of one of the coolest, most vibrant areas in the country – and we’re not stopping there.
“We’ve got plans for three more stations in Daresbury, Woodchurch, and Carr Mill. Good public transport is a right that should be enjoyed by all, not just those living in London.”