More than 12,000 fans used the region’s trains for the u21s fixture on Sunday
Merseyrail are to review plans for additional services in the aftermath of demand during the second test event at Everton’s new stadium. With more than 12,000 people using the region’s trains this afternoon – almost half the expected capacity – the rail operator laid on extra services and larger trains to cope with the number of fans passing through.
Around 25,000 turned out at Bramley-Moore Dock for the second in a series of three test events at the new ground. Everton’s under 21 side beat Bolton Wanderers B 1-0 in a truncated fixture as the club carried out an evacuation to secure the relevant safety licences needed ahead of next season.
Merseyrail chiefs have now had their say on how things went on the network, saying they are pleased with the outcome. The day wasn’t without a couple of snags, with increased demand on the Hunts Cross line and a trespasser on the line bringing Southport services to a brief halt.
After the first test event, questions were raised about the viability of transport infrastructure around the new 52,888 seater stadium, particularly focused on Sandhills station and the rail network. Passengers after the game spoke of a crowded platform and fearing for their safety as they waited for 30 minute services being put on.
As it was an evening fixture last month, trains after 7pm run every half an hour. To deal with the increased number of users passing through, Merseyrail amended its Sunday timetable accordingly.
Services ran every 15 minutes on the Southport, Ormskirk and Headbolt Lane lines, with eight car trains where possible. Merseyrail said the use of 8-car trains and additional services before and after the event helped manage the increased number of customers, keeping queues to a minimum and ensuring everyone reached their destination safely and swiftly.
The operator added how some “busy trains” on the Hunts Cross line and a trespasser on the tracks around Seaforth had caused some minor disruption but the plan for the day had worked well.
Stephen Dodd, Merseyrail chief operating officer, said: “We are pleased with how well this test event went, with thousands of customers travelling smoothly and safely via Sandhills station – thank you for following travel advice and for your patience. The feedback from this and the previous test event are invaluable as we continue to refine our matchday transport plans, ahead of the stadium’s official opening at the start of the 2025/26 Premier League season.
“These test events allow us to further improve the overall travel experience for fans.” Preparations will now begin for the third and final test event later this summer.
Additional extra services and 8-car trains will be in use for the third test while Merseyrail have also confirmed they will review plans for additional services on the Hunts Cross line, given the demand during the test event today.
