The Liverpool City Region is gearing up for a transformative 2026, with a series of ambitious projects set to redefine its transport infrastructure, digital inclusion, and cultural landscape. From the launch of a new Mersey Ferry in over six decades to the introduction of bus franchising and Tap and Go across the Merseyrail network, the region is poised for significant advancements.
**Tap and Go: A Smarter Way to Travel**
Next year will witness the full implementation of a modern smart ticketing system across the Merseyrail network. This system, known as Tap and Go, will allow passengers to travel using contactless bank cards and digital wallets, including Apple Pay and Google Pay, eliminating the need for physical tickets. Passengers are already benefiting from the Tap & Go system using a MetroCard, which was launched by Mayor Steve Rotheram in the summer. This system ensures the lowest available fare, with daily and weekly fare capping to prevent overcharging frequent travelers.
Merseyrail has introduced a pilot of smart tickets, inviting the public to test the technology in real-world conditions. This pilot is crucial for gathering feedback to ensure the service is reliable, user-friendly, and tailored to passengers’ needs. The pilot will be expanded to other lines before the full Tap & Go service is implemented later in 2026.
**New Stations: Enhancing Connectivity**
The Transport for City Region (TCR) funding approved in December is enabling the development of three new station schemes at Carr Mill, Daresbury, and Woodchurch. In the new year, work will commence on developing business cases with local authorities and considering potential services with Network Rail, Northern, and Transport for Wales. These new stations will enhance connectivity and support the region’s growing transport needs.
**The Royal Daffodil: A New Era for Mersey Ferries**
The £26 million Royal Daffodil, the first new Mersey ferry in over 60 years, is set to enter service in 2026. This flagship vessel, commissioned by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, combines modern maritime technology with a celebration of Liverpool’s culture, music, and heritage. The ferry features increased passenger capacity, fully accessible decks, modern seating, improved viewing areas, and flexible internal spaces suitable for events and educational trips. It also incorporates cleaner, more efficient propulsion technology, reducing emissions and supporting the region’s environmental goals.
The Royal Daffodil has been built at the historic Cammell Laird shipyard, blending modern shipbuilding techniques with traditional craftsmanship. As the vessel moves through its final build stages, attention is shifting to fitting out, testing, and commissioning, including safety checks, sea trials, and crew training. The Royal Daffodil is scheduled for completion in early 2026, becoming the new flagship of the Mersey Ferries fleet.
**Bus Franchising: A Vision for Integrated Transport**
2026 marks a significant year for bus franchising, with the first phase rolling out in St Helens and Wirral from September 2026, and full rollout across the region by 2027. Bus franchising is a key part of Mayor Steve Rotheram’s vision for a fully integrated, London-style public transport system that is quicker, simpler, and more affordable. This initiative will give the city region greater control over fares, routes, and timetables, allowing services to be operated in the interests of local bus users. Surplus profits will be reinvested into improving services, and the bus network will be better integrated with other modes of transport, including the region’s new fleet of state-of-the-art publicly owned trains.
**Mayoral Development Corporation: Accelerating Regeneration**
Work will continue in 2026 to develop the recently announced Mayoral Development Corporation, aimed at accelerating regeneration across the region. Mayor Steve Rotheram will deploy devolved development powers to fast-track the delivery of thousands of new homes and major commercial developments, working in tandem with Liverpool City Council’s Leader, Cllr Liam Robinson, in a new development zone.
**LCR LogIn: Bridging the Digital Divide**
The LCR LogIn scheme will help 1,500 digitally excluded Liverpool City Region residents get online in 2026. Backed by £325,000 from the Government’s Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund, the scheme will provide residents with a free digital device, six months of Vodafone Connectivity, and in-person digital skills training. A series of ‘Login LCR Roadshow Events’ will be hosted from January to March next year, allowing individuals to access drop-in digital support alongside other organizations.
**Tackling Inequality in Early Years Education**
The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority has secured £500,000 to tackle inequality in Early Years