Battery technology in some of the new state-of-the-art trains to be operated by Merseyrail could lead to a direct rail passenger link between Helsby and Ellesmere Port.

Currently its trains can only run where a third electrified rail is in place.

But several of the 53 Swiss-made Stadler units on order will be installed with batteries, allowing them to operate for up to 20 miles off grid.

This opens up the possibility of passenger trains between Helsby and Ellesmere Port using an existing line not fitted with a third rail.

The potential route features on a map released this week as part of an announcement by Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram about using the game-changing battery technology to extend the Merseyrail network.

Welcoming a move that would benefit his constituents, Weaver Vale MP Mike Amesbury said: "I am delighted with this announcement. Labour, in leadership locally, has already delivered on improving the railway passenger service for commuters and leisure users.

"I personally worked really closely with Steve on bringing back the Halton Curve. So this is not a flight of fancy. We have a strong track record.

"I have again met with Steve Rotheram, as well as Louise Gittins and Karen Shore, leader and deputy leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, to look at how we might open up this route between Helsby and Ellesmere Port using green battery technology."

Initially the battery-powered trains, which use up to 30% less energy than the existing fleet, are set to run on services to a planned new station at Headbolt Lane, Kirkby. As part of a trial, one of the new class 777 trains fitted with the battery technology was successfully tested on the Northern line.

Cllr Karen Shore, deputy leader and cabinet member for environment, highways and strategic transport, said: "We are pleased with this progress for our region and will continue to work closely with Steve Rotheram, Mike Amesbury and other partners to unlock connectivity in the sub-region.

"There is huge potential for the Hooton/Ellesmere Port to Helsby line and we are working closely to deliver it. We are committed to delivering improved rail infrastructure for all our residents to open up greater opportunity, connectivity and growth."

Steve Rotheram, Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said: "Good public transport is vital for connecting people with each other and opportunity. Our region deserves what London has had for years: a transport system that is affordable, reliable and easy for people to get about. I'm working to build one and these trains are a massive part of that."