Originally Posted by
gottago
The Borderlands Line is mentioned in the report (the Bidston-Wrexham line as they call it). Unforunately the plans to electrify it all of it have been scrapped as they have proved to be too costly and they would likely never get all the money back. However, Merseyrail are looking at investing at trains that can switch from diesel to electric (so it would switch at Bidston), they're also looking at overhead electric lines. I think the elec/diesel option would definately be the cheapest.
The plan to put in 3rd rail was scrapped. Overhead wires is still on the agenda. Duel pickup trains 3rd-rail and overhead wires is possible on this line. Diesel-3rd rail is out as there is no way they will allow a train with a that amount of fuel in an underground station/tunnel.
If the Welsh want to pay for it then fine. Merseyrail money should be spent on bringing the underground tunnels into use - the priority.
I was talking to someone who runs a website campaigning for improvments to rail in Merseyside
Direct him to here:
Circle Line - click here
and he said that he'd heard that there were plans for the Borderlands Line to terminate at James St platform 2 rather than go round the loop. I like the idea of bringing that platform back into full use but not seeing what would be Liverpool's only direct route to North Wales arrive at Lime St, even if it is the low level station, would be a little odd.
The idea is to have a through line from Wrexham direct to John Lennon Airport - when the station is eventually built (another priority) - via James St and Central. The Wirral Line loop will not be used. The original old tunnel from James St to Central is used as a shunting tunnel. This will give the through route. Also a through route from Chester too or anywhere from the Wirral.
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Merseyrail and Liverpool Central Recommendations - a consultative document. Just ideas - and poor ones too.
The full report is here.
http://www.networkrail.co.uk/browse%...nsultation.pdf
They are on about ?60 million to put Skelmersdale on Merseyrail. Which will be more of course by the time it is finished. Best use the Skem money and any other money to extend into Burscough, trams, etc, to upgrade the underground sections. The centre first.
It is no use having extensions of Merseyrail around the peripherals and a city centre not worth travelling to. The rail network will not be used to full potential. Investment in underground transport in the centre will act as a catalyst to regenerate the centre making it attractive. Then extensions can take place getting more easy access to the centre.
If the Welsh want to pay 100% for Wrexham to be a part of Merseyrail then fine. All Merseyside money should be directed towards Merseyrail in Liverpool centre. Tackle the core - Liverpool centre's underground and the rest falls into place.
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