The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority is scheduled to convene on Friday, 25 September 2026, with a packed agenda covering financial performance, strategic development, and operational updates. Key discussions are expected to centre on the establishment of a Mayoral Development Corporation for Liverpool North Docks, proposed amendments to Mersey Tunnels byelaws, and a review of the Combined Authority's Corporate Plan performance.

Liverpool North Docks Mayoral Development Corporation

A significant item on the agenda is the proposed establishment of the Liverpool North Docks Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC). The report will update members on the outcome of a statutory consultation regarding the MDC, which aims to accelerate regeneration in the North Docks area. The consultation reportedly showed strong support for the MDC's purpose and establishment, with over 85% of respondents agreeing with its core aims. The proposal also includes the designation of a Mayoral Development Area (MDA) and the potential for the MDC to act as the Local Planning Authority for major development proposals within its boundary. The report will also provide an update on the Place Based Business Case for Liverpool Central and North Docks, which aims to coordinate interventions across housing, transport, and infrastructure to deliver greater long-term economic and social value.

Mersey Tunnels Byelaw Consultation

The committee will consider proposed amendments to the Mersey Tunnels Byelaws (2003). The current byelaws are considered outdated and require modification to align with current legislative and regulatory frameworks, safety requirements, vehicle standards, and operational practices. The report outlines proposed changes to definitions, traffic regulations, speed limits, and provisions for dangerous goods. Following endorsement of the draft byelaws, a formal public consultation will commence before final approval is sought from the Secretary of State for Transport.

Financial Performance and Budget Revisions

The meeting will review the financial performance of the Combined Authority Group for Quarter 1 of the 2026/27 financial year. The report provides an update on the projected financial outturn position, summarises budget and reserve movements, and identifies key financial risks and opportunities. Proposals for further budget revisions and amendments to current reserve arrangements are to be considered, including the establishment of an Investment and Development Earmarked Reserve.

Housing Retrofit Funding

The committee will consider proposals to accept new housing retrofit funding from the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ). The report details progress in housing retrofit activity and requests approval to spend new funding, which aims to improve energy efficiency in homes, reduce living costs for residents, and support the city region's net-zero ambitions. The expansion of the Warm Homes Social Housing Fund consortium to include any Registered Housing Provider with homes within the Liverpool City Region is also proposed.

Strategic Investment Fund Quarterly Report

A quarterly update on the Strategic Investment Fund (SIF) for the period 1 April to 30 June 2026 will be presented. The report details the performance of various funding streams, including Gainshare, CRSTS, TCR, LUF, BLF, UKSPF, LGF, Innovation Zone, Freeport, and the Chrysalis Fund. The committee will also consider requests for changes to several SIF projects, including extensions to completion dates, funding increases, and adjustments to project outputs.

Q1 2026/27 Performance Reporting on the Corporate Plan

The meeting will receive a summary of progress against the 2024-28 Corporate Plan priorities and key commitments during the first quarter of 2026/27. The report highlights strong performance, with 95% of commitments rated as green. Key achievements across the Economy, People, Place, Transport, and Digital Infrastructure themes will be presented. The report will also summarise the key findings from the Mid-Term Review of the Corporate Plan, which concluded that the plan's commitments remain relevant and sound overall, despite changes in the external operating environment.

Other items scheduled for discussion include:

• Mayor of the Liverpool City Region Announcements and Updates: To receive updates from Mayor Steve Rotheram.
• Public Question Time: An opportunity for members of the public to ask questions.
• Petitions: Consideration of any petitions submitted.
• Transport for City Regions Programme Update: An update on preparations for the delivery of the new capital transport programme.
• Metro Network Update: Proposals to bring the Merseyrail concession into public ownership when the current concession ends in 2028.
• Adult Skills Fund Commissioning Approach 2027-2032: A proposed plan for adult skills funding.
• Minutes of Committees: The minutes of the LCR Overview and Scrutiny Committee, LCR Transport Committee, and LCR Audit and Governance Committee held on 1 July, 16 July, and 23 July 2026 respectively will be presented for noting.