The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority meeting, held on Friday, 25 September 2026, focused on financial updates, the establishment of a new development corporation, and progress on key regeneration and housing initiatives. Key actions included the approval of budget revisions, the progression of the Liverpool North Docks Mayoral Development Corporation, and the acceptance of funding for housing retrofit projects.

Financial Performance and Budget Revisions

The Combined Authority reviewed its financial performance for the first quarter of 2026/27. Budget revisions were approved, totalling £10.8 million, to support initiatives such as the extension of the £2 bus fare cap until December 2026, pre-development activity for Inclusive Growth projects, and preparations for the transfer of Police and Crime Commissioner and Fire and Rescue Authority functions. An Investment and Development Earmarked Reserve was also established, funded by £6 million from the forecast revenue underspend.

Liverpool North Docks Mayoral Development Corporation

The Combined Authority noted the outcome of the statutory consultation on the proposed Liverpool North Docks Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) and endorsed the approach to developing a Mayoral Development Zone (MDZ) concept as a strategic regeneration model for the region. The proposed MDC has the potential to unlock 174 hectares of brownfield land, facilitate the development of approximately 5 million square feet of new commercial space, and deliver 17,700 new homes. The Mayor will now write to the Secretary of State to confirm the intention to establish the MDC.

Housing Retrofit Funding

The Combined Authority accepted new housing retrofit funding totalling at least £24 million from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ). This funding will support an estimated 12,000 additional households in reducing energy bills and improving home warmth and health. The programme will also support registered providers in enhancing the efficiency of their housing stock and will pilot new plug-in solar panel technology. Delegated authority was granted to officers to enter into contracts for the delivery of these energy efficiency measures.

Strategic Investment Fund Quarterly Report

An update on the Strategic Investment Fund (SIF) for the first quarter of 2026/27 was presented, indicating that £1.64 billion of investment is currently in delivery across 228 projects. The report recommended endorsing change control requests for various projects, including adjustments to funding, completion dates, and project outputs for initiatives such as the Mersey Tunnels Tolls Technology Refresh, Stanley Dock Rail Access, Station Accessibility improvements, Mersey Ferries Upgrade Programme, Southport Eastern Access, and Maritime Corridor Phase 2.

Mersey Tunnels Byelaw Consultation

The Combined Authority approved revised draft Mersey Tunnels Byelaws for public consultation, which update the existing regulations from 2003 to reflect current safety requirements, vehicle standards, and operational practices. These proposed changes aim to ensure the rules governing the tunnels remain up-to-date, proportionate, and fit for purpose, strengthening the ability to manage the tunnels safely and efficiently. The proposals will now move forward to a formal public consultation before any application is made to the Secretary of State for Transport for final confirmation.

Q1 2026-27 Performance Reporting on the Combined Authority Corporate Plan

The Committee reviewed the progress against the 2024-28 Corporate Plan priorities for the first quarter of 2026/27. The report indicated strong progress, with many commitments on track or completed. Key achievements were highlighted across the Economy, People, Place, Transport, and Digital Infrastructure themes. A mid-term review of the Corporate Plan also concluded that its commitments remain relevant and sound, despite evolving external circumstances, and emphasised the need for continued agility and responsiveness.

Other Business

The meeting also included noting the minutes of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, the Transport Committee, and the Audit and Governance Committee. The Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, Steve Rotheram, provided announcements and updates on various regional developments, including the upcoming Labour Party conference, the new Mersey Ferry, and progress on transport infrastructure improvements. He also paid tribute to outgoing chairs of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Panels and the outgoing Director of Transport. A video showcasing the progress of devolution and investment across the City Region was also presented. Public question time and petitions yielded no submissions.