This week in Liverpool City Region Combined Authority:

Health and Wellbeing Partnership: A New Board to Tackle Inequalities

The Liverpool City Region Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 14 October 2026, and a key discussion revolved around the proposed establishment of a new Liverpool City Region Health and Wellbeing Partnership Board. This initiative aims to tackle the region's significant health inequalities, which are the highest of any English region.

The board would bring together local authorities, the combined authority, the voluntary sector, and health system representatives. Its focus will be on coordinating efforts to prevent ill health and improve overall population health. This is particularly timely given the Combined Authority's new duties to actively consider health improvement and inequalities in its functions and its recent adoption of Marmot City Region status.

However, some members expressed scepticism about the added value of another partnership board, given existing structures. Councillor Dr. John Pugh noted, I'm struggling to understand how this partnership board is going to add a great deal to the scene. It seems to me it'll end up with the same people who talk about inequalities in many other places talking about inequalities in yet another place. Concerns were also raised about how the board would influence decisions when the Integrated Care Board, which holds significant funding, may need to prioritise Cheshire over Merseyside.

Despite these concerns, the rationale for the board is to create a dedicated forum for the Liverpool City Region, supporting the Mayor's and Combined Authority's new duties and coordinating efforts across the region. The committee agreed to consider the proposals further, with a view to aligning this work with the Marmot City Region framework and the Equality Act 2010.

Read the full details of the LCR Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting

International Strategy: Boosting Global Connections for Local Gain

The committee also discussed the development of the Liverpool City Region's emerging International Strategy. This strategy aims to provide a clear framework for the region's global engagement, focusing on trade and investment, the visitor economy, and knowledge exchange. The goal is to translate global opportunities into tangible local benefits, such as creating better jobs and attracting investment.

The strategy is built on three pillars: trade and investment, visitor economy, and knowledge exchange and collaboration. It will be underpinned by a robust evidence base and a set of principles to guide targeted activity in priority markets. Feedback from stakeholders has been supportive, with an emphasis on how international engagement can benefit residents, businesses, and communities.

However, questions were raised about the funding for this strategy, with members noting the absence of a specific funding stream at this stage. There was also discussion about the importance of learning from past inward investment attempts and ensuring value for money in international engagement. Concerns were also voiced about the cost of foreign trips in the current economic climate.

The strategy is still in development, with a draft to be presented to the committee in December and final approval sought in January.

Read the full details of the LCR Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting

Financial Performance: A Projected Underspend and Budget Revisions

Clare Hall, Director of Finance, Procurement and Commercial Services, presented the financial performance and budget revisions for Quarter 1 of the 2026/27 financial year. The report indicated a projected underspend of just under £13 million against the budget. This underspend is attributed to favourable investment income and natural delays in recruitment.

The Combined Authority agreed to reallocate £10.7 million of the forecast underspend to further support the Investment and Development Fund. Budget revisions on the revenue side, funded through reserves, included additional allocations for the tidal power project, the extension of the £2 bus fare cap, public sector innovation, and investment and delivery pre-development activities.

Members raised questions regarding the clarity of wording around the transfer of Police and Crime Commissioner and Fire and Rescue Authority functions, and the associated £1 million allocation for preparations. Concerns were also expressed about the timing of financial reports to the committee, with a request for performance against budget to be presented earlier in the year. The committee also sought clarification on benchmarking reserve levels against other combined authorities.

Read the full details of the LCR Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting

Other Matters

Work Programme for 2026-27

The committee reviewed its work programme for 2026-27. Suggestions for inclusion included a deep dive into the tidal barrage project, a briefing on the climate crisis and resilience, the impact of data centres, and an update on regional homelessness. The committee also discussed aligning the review of Section 1 of the Equality Act with the Marmot City Region task and finish group.

Read the full details of the LCR Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting

This week in Liverpool City Region Combined Authority:

Innovation Zones: Driving Growth and Jobs with a Focus on Skills

The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority's Innovation Zone Programme Management Board met on Friday, 2 October 2026, to discuss progress on a major initiative designed to boost economic growth, support businesses, and maximise the potential of its residents. The programme, which combines the benefits of the LCR Freeport and Investment Zone tax sites, is already showing tangible results, with nearly a million square feet of commercial space developed and a pipeline for millions more.

The core of the Innovation Zone programme lies in its ability to attract investment through significant fiscal incentives. These include a five-year business rates relief, relief from National Insurance contributions, Stamp Duty Land Tax exemptions, and enhanced capital allowances. These national tax benefits, backed by central government, are designed to make the region's six designated tax sites – three under the Freeport programme (Parkside, 3MG, and Wirral Waters) and three under the Investment Zone (St Helens, Sci-Tech Darsbury, and McGull Health Park) – highly competitive for businesses.

Crucially, the programme is not just about attracting companies; it's about creating opportunities for local people. A significant portion of the discussion focused on Maximising People's Potential. This involves targeted skills development and outreach programmes, starting from primary school with initiatives like KQ Futures, which introduces children to science and technology. For young people not in education, employment, or training, the Youth Guarantee Trailblazer programme offers pathways to jobs and apprenticeships.

The impact of these efforts is already being felt. Skills brokers have facilitated the transfer of approximately £16 million in unspent apprenticeship levy, creating over 2,400 apprenticeships. The programme also works directly with employers to develop bespoke training solutions, such as OWS Engineering at Wirral Waters, which is delivering its own apprenticeship programme.

The retention of graduates with expertise in high-demand fields like AI, digital health, and advanced therapy is seen as fundamental to the region's future success. Universities are actively collaborating with businesses to provide graduates with work experience and opportunities to stay and build their careers locally.

However, challenges remain. Stephen Carr from the Port of Liverpool highlighted the critical barrier of accessing grid capacity for electricity, which is hindering the decarbonisation of industry and slowing down investment. While acknowledging this, the board is actively relaying these challenges to the government and advocating for prioritisation of grid access for these key development sites.

The programme's success is also linked to the broader devolution agenda, with the board seeking greater flexibility from the government to align start dates for business rate retention and adjust red line boundaries to accommodate new investment opportunities. This push for regional control aims to accelerate the delivery of infrastructure and capitalise on strategic sectoral opportunities.

The real-world impact of these initiatives was underscored by examples like Finza, a European company that chose to expand in Wirral, and SSO Logistics, which benefited from a customs site designation for more efficient operations. These stories demonstrate how the Innovation Zone programme is translating into tangible benefits for businesses and residents alike.

Read the full details of the LCR Innovation Zone Programme Management Board meeting

Audit and Governance Committee: Ensuring Robust Oversight and Risk Management

The LCR Audit and Governance Committee met on Thursday, 1 October 2026, to review the organisation's internal audit updates, the progress of the external audit for the 2025/26 Statement of Accounts, and the effectiveness of its risk management framework. The committee also approved its work programme for the upcoming year.

Internal Audit Highlights: AI Maturity and Outstanding Recommendations

The committee received an update on internal audit work completed in the second quarter of 2026-27. Pleasingly, there were no major opinion reports issued, indicating no significant risks to the organisation. However, three moderate opinion reports were issued concerning Skills Bootcamps Claims, In-House Software Design, and Asset Management Service and Maintenance Contracts, highlighting areas for improvement.

A significant discussion point was the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Maturity Assessment, which concluded that the organisation's AI maturity is at a developing stage. While the current use of AI is modest, focused on tasks like research and language refinement, concerns were raised about potential over-reliance. Laura A. Williams, Head of Internal Audit and Risk, assured the committee that AI is not being used without human intervention and that the organisation is developing governance frameworks to manage its use responsibly. Councillor Chris Cooke proposed that the topic be taken to the overview and scrutiny committee for a more in-depth review, which was agreed.

The committee noted that while 45 recommendations were implemented during the period, 51 high and 93 medium-priority recommendations remain outstanding. A particular concern was the seven high-priority recommendations that predate the 2025-26 financial year, indicating a significant elapsed time since their identification.

External Audit Progress and Risk Management Framework

Katie Kingston from Forvis Mazars LLP reported that the external audit of the 2025/26 Statement of Accounts was on track, with fieldwork progressing well. No material misstatements or significant deficiencies in internal control had been identified to date. The Value for Money (VfM) work was also progressing, with findings to be reported in November.

The update on the risk management framework revealed that the six key risks identified – Accountability, Resilience, Environment, Transport, Economic Prosperity, and Financial Sustainability – remain unchanged in their scoring. New actions have been identified for several of these risks, particularly concerning the Rewiring the State initiative and its implications for devolved responsibilities. The committee noted improvements in the consistency and completion of service and project risk registers.

Committee Work Programme Approved

The committee approved its work programme for the 2026/27 municipal year, which includes regular updates on internal audit, finance, and risk management, as well as reviews of the Constitution and accounting policies. The programme is designed to be flexible and can be amended as needed.

Read the full details of the LCR Audit & Governance Committee meeting

This week in Liverpool City Region Combined Authority:

Liverpool North Docks Mayoral Development Corporation: A Bold Plan for Regeneration or a Risk to Local Control?

The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority met on Friday 25 September 2026 to discuss a range of significant financial, developmental, and policy matters. A key item on the agenda was the proposed establishment of the Liverpool North Docks Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC). This ambitious proposal aims to accelerate the delivery of 17,000 new homes and half a million square feet of commercial space over the next 15 years. However, the plans have sparked debate about transparency, community engagement, and the potential impact on local planning powers.

Mayor Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and Cabinet Member for Policy and Resources and for Transport, is seeking approval from the Secretary of State to establish the MDC. This would grant it significant powers, including land assembly and compulsory purchase. While 85% of respondents to a recent consultation supported the MDC's establishment, concerns were raised by councillors about sustainability, the definition of good developers, and the potential for the MDC to override local planning decisions.

The report presented to the Combined Authority updated members on the consultation process, which demonstrated strong support for the MDC's role in accelerating regeneration. It also outlined the concept for establishing a consistent city-region-wide Mayoral Development Zone (MDZ) to prioritise, govern, and deliver strategic regeneration areas. The report sought due consideration for the designation of a Mayoral Development Area in Liverpool North Docks and notification to the Mayor if the Combined Authority proposed to reject the proposal.

This initiative is a significant undertaking that could reshape a large part of the city. For residents, it means the potential for new housing and economic opportunities, but also raises questions about how local voices will be heard and how development will benefit existing communities. The decision to progress with the MDC will have long-term implications for the character and development of the area.

Read the full details of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority meeting

Financial Performance and Budget Revisions: Ensuring Fiscal Responsibility

The Combined Authority also reviewed its financial performance for the first quarter of the 2026/27 financial year. A report detailed the projected financial outturn position as of June 2026, summarising budget and reserve movements, and identifying key financial risks and opportunities. Proposals for further budget revisions and amendments to current reserve arrangements were also on the agenda.

This included recommendations to:

• Note the financial position.
• Approve revenue and capital budget amendments for 2026/27.
• Approve the establishment of an Investment and Development Earmarked Reserve, funded by an allocation from the forecast revenue underspend.

These decisions are crucial for ensuring the Combined Authority can continue to fund essential services and strategic projects. For residents, sound financial management means greater certainty in the delivery of public services and a more stable environment for investment and development across the region.

Read the full details of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority meeting

Housing Retrofit: Securing Funding for Warmer Homes

An update on housing retrofit activity was presented, with consideration given to the acceptance of new funding from the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ). The report requested approval to spend new funding and to expand the Warm Homes Social Housing Fund consortium to include any Registered Housing Provider with homes within the Liverpool City Region.

Delegated authority was also sought to submit a proposal to DESNZ for funding to pilot plug-in solar panel technology. This initiative is vital for tackling fuel poverty and improving the energy efficiency of homes, which directly benefits vulnerable residents by reducing their energy bills and improving living conditions.

Read the full details of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority meeting

Other Matters

Strategic Investment Fund Quarterly Report

A quarterly update on the Strategic Investment Fund (SIF) for the period of April to June 2026 was presented. The report provided an update on the financial position of the funding streams within the SIF and the performance of projects in the delivery phase. The agenda also included seeking approval for changes to several SIF projects, including Merseytravel's Mersey Tunnels Tolls Technology Refresh, Stanley Dock Rail Access, Station Accessibility, and Mersey Ferries Upgrade Programme, as well as Sefton Council's Southport Eastern Access and Maritime Corridor Phase 2 projects. These investments are key to improving infrastructure and services across the region.

Read the full details of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority meeting

Mersey Tunnels Byelaw Consultation

The authority was asked to endorse a proposed approach to review and amend the Mersey Tunnels Byelaws 2003. The report highlighted that the current byelaws required modification to reflect current legislative and regulatory frameworks, safety requirements, vehicle standards, and operational practice. The agenda sought approval of the revised draft Mersey Tunnels Byelaws and delegation of authority to undertake formal public consultation before returning to the Combined Authority for final approval. Modernising these byelaws is essential for ensuring the safety and efficiency of this vital transport link.

Read the full details of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority meeting

Q1 2026/27 Performance Reporting on the Corporate Plan

The meeting was scheduled to receive a summary of progress against the 2024-28 Corporate Plan priorities and key commitments during the first quarter of 2026/27. The report also included a summary of the key findings from the Mid-Term Review of the Corporate Plan. The performance ratings presented indicated that 95% of the Corporate Plan commitments with activity during the quarter were on track for successful delivery or had been completed. The report also highlighted a small number of commitments rated as amber, requiring further work to improve or accelerate progress. This reporting ensures accountability and transparency in how the Combined Authority is working towards its strategic goals.

Read the full details of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority meeting

Minutes of Committees

The minutes from the LCR Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 1 July 2026, the LCR Transport Committee held on 16 July 2026, and the LCR Audit and Governance Committee held on 23 July 2026 were scheduled for receipt.

Read the full details of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority meeting

Public Engagement

The agenda included provisions for public engagement, with Public Question Time allocated for members of the public to ask questions submitted in accordance with Meetings Standing Orders. A period of 30 minutes was allocated for this item. Additionally, there was an item for Petitions, where members of the public could submit petitions in accordance with Meetings Standing Orders.

Read the full details of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority meeting

Mayor of the Liverpool City Region Announcements and Updates

The meeting was scheduled to receive updates from the Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, Mayor Steve Rotheram, on his recent activities and key developments since the last Combined Authority meeting.

Read the full details of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority meeting

This week in Liverpool City Region Combined Authority:

E-Bike Ban on Merseyrail Sparks Outrage: Will Council Intervene?

The LCR Transport Committee met this week, and a major point of contention was Merseyrail's recent decision to ban all non-folding e-bikes from its trains and premises. This move has been met with significant backlash from cyclists and disability advocates, who argue it unfairly penalises responsible users and potentially breaches disability discrimination laws.

The committee heard that Merseyrail Electric 2002 Limited, operating under a concession, made this decision based on a safety review. However, Councillor Steve Foulkes, Chair of the Transport Committee, acknowledged the widespread concern, stating, It has been described as something of a sledgehammer to crack a nut. He proposed that the committee write to Merseyrail urging them to reconsider the ban. The committee agreed to this, signalling a potential intervention from the Combined Authority to find a more balanced solution that doesn't punish legal e-bike owners.

The ban comes into effect fully in January, following an awareness campaign. This situation highlights how private operators, even under public concession, can make decisions with significant real-world impacts on residents' ability to travel. The council's willingness to engage with Merseyrail on this issue is crucial for ensuring transport policies remain inclusive and accessible.

Read the full details of the LCR Transport Committee meeting

New Bus Operators Take the Helm: What it Means for Your Commute

The LCR Transport Committee also welcomed presentations from the new bus franchise operators, Stagecoach and Go North West. These companies are now responsible for delivering bus services across the region, and their approach will directly affect the daily commutes of thousands of residents.

Go North West, part of the global Go Ahead Group, highlighted their commitment to decarbonising public transport and improving employee welfare. They are mobilising services for the Wirral and Liverpool City Region, focusing on driver training and fleet preparation. Stagecoach, a familiar operator, presented their plans for the newly awarded St. Helens franchise, promising improved frequency, a new fleet, and enhanced connectivity.

Both operators emphasised their focus on customer satisfaction and community engagement. Passengers can expect to see improvements in service frequency, particularly at the beginning and end of the day, and a better-regulated network. A key development for passengers will be the introduction of a unified LCRCA app for ticketing and real-time information, aiming to simplify the travel experience and avoid confusion from multiple operator apps. This move towards a more integrated and user-friendly system is a significant step in improving public transport for everyone.

Read the full details of the LCR Transport Committee meeting

Hill Dickinson Stadium Transport: A Collaborative Effort for Smooth Match Days

The committee received a comprehensive update on the transport and infrastructure surrounding the new Hill Dickinson Stadium, the home of Everton Football Club. This update showcased a significant collaborative effort between the LCRCA, Merseyrail, Everton Football Club, and Liverpool City Council to manage the influx of fans on match days.

Key improvements include four dedicated bus routes, with new services from Liverpool city centre, Bootle, and Kirby proving successful. Mersey Rail's Sandhill station is undergoing phased improvements, including a new queuing area and a bridge, representing a £6.4 million investment. The capacity of Mersey Rail's 777 trains, capable of carrying nearly 1,000 people, is crucial for efficiently moving large crowds.

The implementation of Zone X road closures on match days has been refined to lift faster, enhancing pedestrian safety. A multi-agency command centre coordinates efforts, and fan representatives are actively involved in transport planning to ensure supporter experience remains central. While initial challenges with Mersey Rail performance were noted, significant improvements have been made, with the station clearing thousands of passengers within an hour on match days. This coordinated approach is vital for ensuring safety and minimising disruption for both football fans and local residents.

Read the full details of the LCR Transport Committee meeting

Mersey Tunnels Byelaws Under Review: Modernising Rules for Safety

Proposed amendments to the Mersey Tunnels Byelaws (2003) were presented to the committee, aiming to update regulations for safety, enforcement, and operational efficiency. The current byelaws are outdated and do not reflect modern vehicle standards or legislation.

Key proposed changes include:

• Updated definitions for modern vehicle types.
• Clarified speed limits within the tunnels and their approaches.
• New byelaws for vehicle recovery and abandoned vehicles.
• Updated restrictions on dangerous goods to align with international regulations.
• Revised approach to pedal cycles and electrically assisted pedal cycles, with specific time restrictions for Queensway Tunnel.

These updates are essential for ensuring the tunnels remain safe and efficient for all users, adapting to new technologies and traffic management needs. The committee was asked to endorse the draft byelaws and the approach to public consultation.

Read the full details of the LCR Transport Committee meeting

Other Matters

Bus Stop Accessibility Gets a Boost

New design guidance for accessible bus stops and walking/wheeling routes was endorsed by the committee. Developed with input from disability groups and bus operators, this guidance updates existing standards to ensure new infrastructure is inclusive for all passengers. This is a crucial step towards creating a truly accessible public transport network for everyone.

Read the full details of the LCR Transport Committee meeting

£2 Bus Fare Cap Continues to Support Residents

The committee received an update on national and local transport policy, including the confirmation of a £2 cap on single bus tickets in England from January 2027. While the LCR already benefits from a £2 cap funded by the Combined Authority, this national move reinforces the commitment to affordable public transport. New entitlements for disabled person's travel pass holders to receive free bus travel all day, every day, were also confirmed, a benefit long enjoyed by Merseytravel passholders.

Read the full details of the LCR Transport Committee meeting