Residents of the Liverpool City Region are getting their first look at a cutting-edge rapid transport 'Glider,' set to enhance journeys to Liverpool John Lennon Airport and the city's football stadia by 2028.
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| Liverpool City Region Combined Authority |
Showcased in Metro branding outside Liverpool FC’s Anfield stadium, the 18-metre, articulated vehicle promises to speed up travel across the region. The Glider, capable of carrying 30% more passengers than a typical double-decker bus, is equipped with three sets of double doors to streamline boarding and reduce stop times.
On loan from Translink’s Belfast fleet, where Gliders have cut journey times by up to 25% and replaced over 2.5 million car trips since 2018, this vehicle is touring various locations across Liverpool City Region. The Glider could soon be a permanent fixture, with plans to extend the service to areas like Wirral Waters.
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region said:
“The Liverpool City Region is a well-established – and growing – magnet for visitors from around the world with our unique mix of music, culture, hospitality and sport.
“Millions of people pass through John Lennon Airport, many of them on their way to Anfield and, in future, to Bramley Moore. But one of the things people always tell me is that they need better links to these important places.
“As part of my plans to build a London-style transport system, that is something I am committed to addressing. I was just re-elected on a promise to look at delivering a ‘glider’ style rapid link that will make getting to the airport and the football much faster, more efficient and, above all, a more pleasant travelling experience.
“This is the first time the glider will be seen on our streets – but I’ll make sure they’re up and running serving passengers in time for the Euros in 2028.
“This is not the end of the story either. I remain committed to building the world class transport system our region deserves. Having a glider doesn’t mean that we won’t one day see a tram or rail station at the airport, but is an outstanding solution that will make an immediate difference to getting people around.”
During its stay, the Glider will be tested on key routes, with public feedback helping to shape final plans. The vehicle will be on display throughout the week at several roadshow events, giving residents a chance to experience it firsthand and share their thoughts.
Roadshow Dates and Locations:
- Monday 19th August: Anfield Stadium (08:00am-11:30am), then Liverpool John Lennon Airport (12:30pm-03:00pm)
- Tuesday 20th August: Seacombe Ferry Terminal (09:00am-03:00pm)
- Wednesday 21th August: Mann Island (09:00am-03:00pm)
- Thursday 22nd August: St Helens Town Centre (09:00am-03:00pm)
- Friday 23rd August: Green Oaks Shopping Centre, Widnes (09:00am-03:00pm)
This new rapid transport link is a key component of Mayor Rotheram’s vision for a faster, cheaper, cleaner and more reliable transport network across the region.
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