Merseytravel proposed upgrading the Halton Curve so it can be worked bidirectionally (which would need a new crossover at Halton Junction), providing a second rail route between Liverpool and Chester.
Merseytravel (One of the two PTEs on the route) had previously stated their aspirations for the St Helens infill electrification; considering it a necessary addition to the (then-proposed) Liverpool to Manchester electrification, given the interworking of passenger services between the Chat Moss (Liverpool to Manchester) and St Helens (Liverpool to Wigan) lines imposed by the December 2008 timetable.
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For local passenger transport, the route is branded as a significant section of one of Merseytravel's City Line routes.
Electrification of Kirkby - Headbolt Lane, Bidston - Wrexham, Liverpool - Earlstown - Manchester, Huyton - St. Helens - Wigan sections
It is well connected to the city and the rest of the United Kingdom through three local train stations (Aigburth Station, Mossley Hill Station and West Allerton Station), several bus routes operated by Merseytravel, and Liverpool John Lennon Airport.
The road tunnels are owned and operated by Merseytravel, and have their own police force, the Mersey Tunnels Police.