Van Hool on trial in Liverpool
A Van Hool ExquiCity articulated bus from Belfast’s Glider service is being trialled in Liverpool.
Clad in the Metro branding of the Liverpool City Region transport network, the vehicle was showcased outside Liverpool FC’s Anfield stadium this morning (19 August 2024). Mayor Steve Rotheram has pledged to deliver new Glider-style rapid transport links to the arena as well as Everton’s new Bramley Moore Dock Stadium and John Lennon Airport by 2028.
On loan from Translink’s 34-strong Glider fleet, the 18m articulated Van Hool is to be displayed to the public at various locations throughout the Liverpool City Region. It will be tested on key routes in the area, allowing the Combined Authority to see if changes need to be made to accommodate the vehicles. The findings will be used to finalise plans for the new link, with details of proposed routes and infrastructure to follow in the coming months.
“…I’ll make sure they’re up and running serving passengers in time for the Euros in 2028” – Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region
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.”