TRANSPORT chiefs want to open up old train lines to boost Merseyside’s rail network.

As part of the plans they are looking at three possible venues for a new Anfield station to service Liverpool FC’s new stadium.

Top of the wish list is to run freight trains into the heart of the docklands along a stretch of track not used for decades.

It is hoped the move would take dozens of lorries off inner-city roads.

The Burscough curves – which used to connect the Southport to Manchester and Ormskirk to Preston lines – are also being considered for re-use. It would mean passengers could get a direct train from Southport to Ormskirk, rather than taking a Northern Line train and changing at Sandhills.

Cllr Peter Millea, who sits on Merseytravel’s board, is pushing for the plans to be included in the City Region’s next Local Transport Plan (LTP3).

He said he had identified three possible locations for an “Anfield station”.

If the plans go ahead it is likely the freight-only Bootle Branch Line would be adapted to take passengers.

Along the route it also skirts Stanley Park, where LFC is hoping to build a 73,000-seat stadium.