PLANNED upgrades to Lea Green railway station have moved to the design phase, it can be revealed.

St Helens Borough Council is working with Merseytravel on detailed design options for the station and surrounding roads.

The aim is to submit a business case for an allocation of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s Transforming Cities fund by the end of the year.

READ > No coronavirus deaths in local care homes for first time in two months

In June 2019, the combined authority approved £70,500 in pre-development funding for feasibility and planning work to support upgrades in and around Lea Green station.

The study looked at the feasibility of extending the park and ride car park, as well as walking and cycling routes to the station to encourage people to use more sustainable modes of transport.

Earlier this month, a decision was taken via delegated powers to approve the appointment of Perfect Circle, a property, construction and infrastructure consultancy, and its sub-consultants to undertake a detailed design of the highway element of the scheme.

Cllr Richard McCauley, St Helens Borough Council’s cabinet member for regeneration and housing, said: “A feasibility study was completed early this year for improving the facilities and Lea Green station and making it easier to walk and cycle in the local area.

READ > Library opening hours to change as part of World of Glass plans

“The results from the study were positive that a project could be delivered to the time and funds available from the Liverpool City Region’s Transforming Cities Fund.

“Together with Merseytravel, St Helens Borough Council are now progressing detail design to enable a bid for funding and are looking to undertake public engagement when suitable to do so.”