New Merseyrail trains roll-out begins on Southport-Hunts Cross line

Liverpool’s new Class 777 train fleet is being rolled out on the Southport to Hunts Cross line.

The Liverpool City Region’s £500m publicly-owned train fleet is beginning the final stage of its phased roll-out this week, extending to the Northern Line route.

Trains will gradually enter passenger service in the latest phase of the roll-out and Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram said: “I know passengers up and down the Southport to Hunts Cross line have been patiently waiting for the roll-out of our new publicly owned trains, and from this week they will be ready to welcome them on board.

“We’ve invested half a billion pounds in our new fleet, which are packed with great new features like sliding step technology, free phone charging and Wi-Fi and more room for bikes and wheelchairs – enabling more people to travel around our region.

“This investment shows the difference devolution makes. We’re charting our own course, putting the public back into public transport and delivering the services that our 1.6 million residents deserve.”

Cllr Liam Robinson, leader of Liverpool City Council and Transport Portfolio Holder for the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, said: “I am confident that their positive impact will be be felt throughout our community, delivering better connectivity and improving the daily lives of our residents.”

Cllr Ian Maher, leader of Sefton Council, said: “It’s fantastic news that the new trains will begin operating on the Southport-Hunts Cross line from this week.

“This represents a real step forward in improving our transport network and will hugely enhance the travel experience for those living and working in Sefton – as well as those visiting our region.”

As was the case with previous launches on other Merseyrail routes, the number of new trains in service will grow over the next few months.