Merseyrail

Merseyrail is the urban rail network serving Liverpool and the surrounding areas in Merseyside, England. It operates commuter services across the Liverpool City Region and parts of the Wirral Peninsula. The network uses electrified third-rail traction and is operated as a concession by a private sector partner under oversight by local transport authorities. The Merseyrail brand is widely associated with fast, frequent services into central Liverpool.

The system comprises two main lines: the Wirral Line and the Northern Line. Trains run from early morning until late evening with high-frequency off-peak service, and share common central Liverpool hubs such as Liverpool Central and James Street, providing connections to suburban towns. The Wirral Line serves communities to the west and north of Liverpool, including Birkenhead, New Brighton and West Kirby. The Northern Line runs north and south from Liverpool, servicing areas such as Southport and Ormskirk, with links into the city centre.

The network is electrified using 750 V DC third-rail systems. The fleet has historically consisted of Class 507 and Class 508 electric multiple units. In recent years, plans have been underway to replace older stock with newer rolling stock, including the introduction of Stadler Class 777 units to increase capacity and reliability.

Merseyrail originated in the British Rail era as a local urban rail network and later operated under a public-private concession model. It is supported by Merseytravel and the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, which coordinate funding, ticketing and planning across the network. Tickets are integrated with local transport and offered as season, off-peak, and rail-only options.

The network remains a core part of public transport in Merseyside, with ongoing investment in stations, accessibility, and rolling stock to improve reliability and service frequency.