ABSTRACT
This chapter analyses the processes underlying the development of the range of smaller network investment projects within the Merseyside rail transport policy regime between 1986 and 1996. It addresses every potential development policy involving the provision of a new rail service facility considered by Merseytravel and the wider regime. The chapter analyses the ways in which proposals for the development of new branch lines and extensions, new stations on existing routes and the enhancement of existing routes were evaluated within the regime. It reinforces the impacts of the atomisation of capital funding consents across several regime institutions and the rules of quantitative project appraisal within the 'Package' submissions. The chapter highlights the development of actual policies according to the 'instrumental' goals of 'project realisation' and the achievement of 'tangible results.' The availability of capital allocations for local rail transport development other than that of Merseytravel itself remained a critical factor in the prioritisation of competing potential development schemes.
