Merseyrail has appointed a new project director who will manage hundreds of millions of pounds for developing Merseyside’s rail network.Merseytravel announced that David Powell will be taking over plans to overhaul Merseyside’s train system, controlling the £350m investment into the community.
Mr Powell, who has more than 20 years’ experience in mass rail and transit projects said: “This project is a unique opportunity to deliver a world-class fleet of trains, which will become the bedrock of the city region’s public transportation system for decades to come.”
He added that further development will be made to local transport systems, after plans were revealed in May to replace its 30 year-old fleet of trains which cost £12m annually to lease.
“We are building on a lot of success here on Merseyside, with Merseyrail consistently one of the best train operators in the country,” he said.
In a press release, Councillor Liam Robinson, Chair of Merseytravel, said: “David has the skills and experience to lead this project, and we are delighted he has joined Merseytravel.”
Powell has also spent five years as a director at Bombardier, the world biggest train builder, and he will now be responsible for managing a process which will take up to 10 years in Merseyside.