From September 6, St Helens will become the first area in the Liverpool City Region to see buses return to public control under the new franchising system. The change introduces a direct express service to Liverpool John Lennon Airport, along with increased frequencies and extended operating hours.
Improved frequencies and routes
Buses that previously ran every two hours will now run hourly. Some routes are being extended to improve connections to hospitals, colleges, and railway stations. Service numbers are being renumbered to eliminate duplicates and create a single, easy-to-understand network across the region.
The new buses, built entirely in the UK, are equipped with air conditioning, USB charging points, and more comfortable seating. They will join 108 electric buses already in service. The vehicles are painted in the Liverpool City Region's yellow, black, and grey Metro livery, matching the train fleet.
Mayor hails historic milestone
Steve Rotheram, mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said: “In the 80s our bus services were deregulated. So now, for the first time in four decades, we are bringing our bus services back where they belong – under public control.”
He added: “We are doubling frequencies on crucial routes, expanding evening and weekend services, and launching a brand-new direct express link to Liverpool John Lennon Airport. We’re backing this new era with state-of-the-art, low-emission buses fully equipped with modern features like USB charging points.”
Mr Rotheram added: “We are building a first-class, green network that local people can truly be proud of.”
New transport interchange also planned
St Helens Transport Interchange, currently under construction with £32 million from the combined authority, will better connect bus and rail services. It will feature climate-controlled waiting areas, step-free access, and real-time travel information screens.
Council leader's response
Cllr George Woodward, leader of St Helens Council, said: “Access to reliable, modern public transportation is vital for our communities, and I am pleased that St Helens borough will be the first in the Liverpool City Region to benefit from buses coming back under public control.”
“I remain optimistic that this bus franchising scheme will result in more frequent services, extended operations, and better route planning to serve the residents of St Helens borough.”
“It’s my responsibility to ensure that the services offered by the LCRCA are of good quality and deliver proper value for taxpayers in the borough. In my Liverpool City Region role, I shall be evaluating the changes brought about by bus franchising to ensure effective delivery to meet our public transportation needs.”
“St Helens borough will also benefit from brand new diesel buses – I’m pleased that our fleet will feature proven, reliable, affordable industrial technology. I strongly encourage St Helens borough residents to make good use of their new buses.”
The new timetable and details are available on the Merseytravel website.
