Groundworks move forward on St Helens Transport Interchange
13.11.25 3 min read
The next phase in delivering a state-of-the-art St Helens Transport Interchange is well underway, with specialist piling machinery being employed to prepare the ground ahead of the main construction works.
ECF – our partnership between Homes England, and L&G – is bringing forward the transformational regeneration scheme with St Helens Borough Council.
Main contractor VINCI Building has appointed specialist subcontractor Town and Country Vibro to carry out the works – a key stage in the project, with the piling scheduled to be completed by late November.
Matt Whiteley, Senior Development Manager, commented:
Martin Horton, Senior Project Manager at VINCI Building, said:
“Before any major structure can take shape, engineers must first ensure the ground beneath it is strong enough to support the imposed design loads. That’s where vibro piling comes in – a modern ground improvement technique that uses controlled vibration to install compacted stone columns deep into the soil.
“This process is all about creating strength and stability below ground before construction begins above it. Vibro piling efficiently compacts and reinforces existing soil, providing a secure foundation for the buildings that follow.”
Councillor Richard McCauley, Cabinet Member for Regeneration at St Helens Borough Council, said:
“The start of vibro piling marks yet another important milestone for the St Helens Transport Interchange. It’s fantastic to see the rigs in action on site – it’s another clear sign of progress. These works are literally laying the groundwork for a modern, accessible, and sustainable Transport Interchange that will serve local people for decades to come. Each stage of the project brings us closer to delivering a facility that reflects St Helens’ ambitions for a greener, better-connected future.”
Cllr Steve Foulkes, Chair of the Transport Committee at the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, added:
“The start of piling works is yet another sign of visible of progress towards the delivery of a brand-new transport interchange for St Helens.
“Backed with £32 million of funding from the Combined Authority, this project will make it easier for people to travel to and from a revitalised and regenerated St Helens town centre. It’s a fantastic example of how investment in infrastructure can connect communities and drive local growth.”
Once complete, the St Helens Transport Interchange will completely transform travel for bus passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians – creating a safe, accessible, and welcoming gateway to the town centre.
Key features include 11 bus stands (up from nine) to support the region’s bus franchising plans, temperature-controlled concourses, real-time travel information for both buses and trains, step-free access throughout, and automatic doors at every stand. The new Transport Interchange will also feature a Travel Centre, accessible toilets including a Changing Places facility, and secure indoor and outdoor cycle parking with improved wayfinding.
The surrounding public realm will also be enhanced to improve connections between the interchange, St Helens Central Rail Station, and key landmarks such as the Gamble Building, Theatre Royal, and the forthcoming Hampton by Hilton hotel. A new civic square, upgraded lighting, and high-quality landscaping will help create a vibrant, people-friendly public space.
The £35 million project is being delivered through £32 million from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority via the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS), alongside £3.25 million from the Government’s Towns Fund and contributions from St Helens Borough Council.