Network Rail has announced plans for a £340m project to upgrade railway in Liverpool City Region over the next three years.

The project will include new and longer platforms at Liverpool Lime Street station, a new station at Maghull North, renovation of the Newton-le-Willows station, track renewal on the Merseyrail underground loop, laying of additional track between Huyton and Roby, and upgrading the Halton Curve to support new services between Liverpool and Chester.

It will also include the construction of a new bus interchange, extended car park facilities, a new booking hall on the south side of the station, as well as new lifts, subway and stairs.

The majority - £229m - of the funding for the project will be provided by Network Rail, while the remaining will be funded by the Liverpool City Region.

The upgrades form part of Network Rail's nationwide Railway Upgrade Plan in response to rise in demand for rail services.

Network Rail route managing director Martin Frobisher said: “Our aim over the next three years is to give the people of Liverpool the high-quality rail services they deserve.

“With demand for rail travel expected to rise by 100 per cent over the coming years, these improvements are vital for the future growth and prosperity of this great city region.”