Merseyside's Public Transport Network Braces for a Record-Breaking Weekend

As the city prepares to welcome thousands of visitors for two major sporting events and a stunning waterfront light show, the region's public transport network is gearing up for a "busier than usual" weekend. At least 50,000 fans are expected to attend the rugby league Ashes test between England and Australia at Everton's new stadium, while Liverpool will host Aston Villa in the Premier League, drawing huge crowds to the Hill Dickinson Stadium and Anfield. With thousands more expected to visit the River of Light art festival, the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority is urging visitors to plan ahead and make the most of the available transport options.

Key Takeaways:

• Over 50,000 fans are expected to attend the rugby league Ashes test between England and Australia at Everton's new stadium on Saturday.
• Liverpool will host Aston Villa in the Premier League at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, with crowds expected to be significant.
• Three shuttle bus options are available for fans travelling to the England v Australia match from Liverpool One bus station, Commutation Row by St George's Hall, and Bootle Strand Bus Station.
• Merseyrail will run a 15-minute service on the Southport, Ormskirk, Hunts Cross, and Headbolt Lane lines before and after the event.
• Cycling and walking from Liverpool city centre is being encouraged, with safe walking routes and cycle parking available at the stadium.
• Cllr Steve Foulkes, chair of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority transport committee, has urged visitors to plan their journeys in advance and check with operators before travelling.

Statistics:

• 50,000+ fans expected to attend the rugby league Ashes test at Everton's new stadium on Saturday.
• 3 shuttle bus options available for fans travelling to the England v Australia match.
• Merseyrail will operate a 15-minute service frequency on the Southport, Ormskirk, Hunts Cross, and Headbolt Lane lines before and after the event.
• 4,000+ visitors expected to visit the River of Light art festival on Saturday.
• 4pm is the last departure time of the Mersey Ferries' River Explorer service from Liverpool's Pier Head on Saturday.

Sources:

• Byline: By, David Humphreys
• Merseyside's public transport network anticipating a "busier than usual" weekend for football and rugby league matches (Liverpool Echo)
• Liverpool City Region Combined Authority prepares for major events (Liverpool Echo)
• River of Light art festival to attract thousands to the Mersey waterfront (Liverpool Echo)