I was delighted to open the new rail station and transport interchange at Newton-le-Willows today alongside Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram.

Newton-le-Willows has a proud history as a pioneering railway town. It’s at the heart of the North West and the gateway between the Liverpool City Region and Greater Manchester. The redeveloped rail station, new routes and plans for increased capacity confirm the town’s status as a key North West and Northern region transport hub.

This significant investment in the station will hugely improve the facilities for passengers and better connectivity will help bring jobs, and growth to St Helens borough.

I want to congratulate all the people involved in bringing this ambitious and impressive project to fruition and well done to everyone involved in the opening, particularly the Mayor of St Helens Borough, local councillors, Newton and Earlestown Community Group, and thanks to the Riddling Rack for providing refreshments.