Rail users are set to face more disruption to ahead of the arrival of new trains on the Merseyrail network– because some station platforms may have to be extended.

A series of platform and station closures took place earlier this year, so platforms could be made higher and wider to reduce the gap when accessing trains.

Merseytravel and the Combined Authority confirmed that there will be extra work needed to accommodate the new longer trains - some of which are formed as eight-car services.

The position of certain signalling points at some stations assumes only three or six-car sets.

It has not yet been confirmed which stations will be affected, or what level of disruption the works will cause.

A Merseytravel spokesperson said: “As part of the planned infrastructure works associated with the new trains being phased in from 2020 on the Merseyrail network, we will be undertaking platform lengthening and signal works at some stations.

“The works will be necessary to bring the new state-of-the art, publicly owned trains to our city region, with increased capacity, free wifi and level access for all passengers including wheelchair users and those with bikes and buggies.

“We’re working with Network Rail on the plans for these works right now and will be providing further information once these are finalised.

“As with all engineering works there will be some disruption but we’re confident this can be kept to minimum and people will be able to get where they need to go.”