Bridge ‘still on track’ as inquiry is launched

Oct 9 2008 by Paul Glynn, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

BOROUGH chiefs have been reacting to the Department of Transport’s announcement of a public inquiry into the second Runcorn-Widnes bridge.

The Mersey Gateway Partnership is now awaiting confirmation of when the inquiry into the Mersey Gateway project will take place.

If the project is given the go-ahead by the inquiry’s Government inspector, it is envisaged that construction would start in 2011, with the new bridge expected to open in 2014.

David Parr, chief executive of Halton Council, said the Mersey Gateway project is essential to Halton’s future prosperity.

He said: “This announcement is exactly what we were expecting to hear.

“It is good news for all the residents, commuters and businesses across the region who have been suffering with the problems caused by the congested Silver Jubilee Bridge for far too long. We have a unique opportunity here to unblock this congestion bottleneck which is restricting our region from reaching its full potential.

“It is vital that we deliver our vision for the Mersey Gateway that will see new jobs, investment and the continued transformation of Halton and the region.”

Cllr Tony McDermott, leader of Halton Borough Council and chairman of the Mersey Gateway executive board, said: “The announcement of the inquiry means that we are still on track to deliver the new bridge and all of the associated benefits that it can bring to Halton and the surrounding area.

“The inquiry will mean that everyone will have a chance to express their views on what is without doubt an important and complex and issue.”

The inquiry is expected to take place in Halton in early 2009, following the submission of the project plan earlier this year.