Wider Economic Impact Report predicts massive boost to North West economy

Feb 26 2009 by Adrian Short, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

MORE than 4,000 jobs could be created and massive benefits brought to the North West economy as a result the proposed Mersey Gateway bridge crossing.

Research, commissioned by Halton Council and published in the Wider Economic Impact Report on Monday, predicts 4,460 new permanent jobs would be generated, 470 temporary jobs created over a decade and 500 people would be employed in its construction phase.

Further predictions include:

Some local journey times reduced by up to 40% in peak periods by 2030.

85% less daily traffic using the Silver Jubilee Bridge by 2015.

Major public transport improvements, pedestrian and cycling facilities.

Environmental benefits from reduced congestion.

Cllr Tony McDermott, Halton Council leader and Mersey Gateway executive board chairman, said: “This project will be good for the economy, good for the environment and good for Halton.

“It will provide a long-term solution to the congestion problems that are hampering the economy, bring jobs and investment to our area, and also play a major part in helping the Liverpool city region regain its status as a premier European city.

“We’re now preparing for the public inquiry which should take place in a few months’ time.”

David Parr, the council chief executive, said: “The current economic downturn makes these wider benefits of the Mersey Gateway even more crucial for the region.

“The forecasts we have published could be seen as very cautious given the potential of this project and the interest we have had from businesses investing in the area.”