PUBLIC transport is in line for a major change as our region’s transport network undergoes a name change. As part of its corporate plan, in line with Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram’s election manifesto earlier this year, Merseytravel is to be replaced.

In future, as it rolls out its METRO system across the area, the historic name will be replaced by Transport for Liverpool City Region (TFLCR). This is part of wide ranging plans from the combined authority (CA) to connect rail, bus, ferry, tunnels and active travel options across the six local authority areas.

The change to branding was part of Mr Rotheram’s election manifesto in the spring when he romped home to a historic third term at the top of Mann Island. As the CA unveiled its corporate plan for the next four years, further details emerged about the major name change for the company that dates back to the 1960s.

It said: "The Combined Authority will deliver its fully integrated METRO transport network through Transport for Liverpool City Region (TFLCR), which will replace Merseytravel and implement a whole system approach. It will promote mobility across the region for our communities and businesses, by creating increased linkage between rail, bus, ferry, tunnels, and active travel."

The Local Democracy Reporting Service understands the change will bring the Liverpool City Region in line with areas such as Manchester and London with their own distinct regional transport branding. A new crest and flag is being designed for the city region to be introduced by the end of this year, but it is not yet known when the name change could come into effect.

The move to be known as TFLCR would not be the first name change, with the transport authority originally known as the Merseyside Passenger Transport Authority and Merseyside Passenger Transport Executive. It is the latest in a series of moves to radically change public transport in our region.

In October 2023, the decision to bring buses back into public control was formally ratified by the combined authority, with the first publicly owned services scheduled to hit the roads in 2026 from St Helens. Additionally, in the last 18 months, the fleet of £500m new trains were laid on across the Merseyrail network as well as the opening of the £80m Headbolt Lane station in Kirkby.

A £100m new station is scheduled to open at Liverpool Baltic in 2027 – a year ahead of schedule, while plans have been drawn up for stops at Carr Mill, Daresbury and Woodchurch.

A new Bus Rapid Transport connection between the city centre and Liverpool John Lennon Airport and to Anfield and Bramley-Moore stadia could also be in place by 2028.

The next phase of smart ticketing is also expected to roll out by March next year, including changes to fare and concession options.