Mersey Gateway team submits statement of evidence to public inquiry

Apr 23 2009 by Oliver Clay, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

THE Mersey Gateway team has submitted its evidence for the forthcoming public inquiry.

The team’s evidence sets out the case in favour of the project, including a second bridge and changes to Halton’s roads and the Silver Jubilee Bridge.

The evidence is expected to argue that the project will create “significant” economic, social and transport benefits to Halton and the rest of the region.

Objectors and other interested parties have until April 28 to submit their evidence.

A planning inspector will then consider the evidence and recommend whether the project should go ahead.

Tony McDermott, Halton Council leader, said: “The Mersey Gateway project is a unique opportunity for Halton and the North West.

“It can be the catalyst to create jobs, encourage regeneration and investment and resolve some significant congestion issues on the Silver Jubilee Bridge.

“We’re delighted that the public inquiry is about to start and look forward to presenting what we believe is an overwhelming case for the project and hearing the views of others.

“The council has submitted its evidence a week earlier than everyone else to give other parties a chance to read through the official evidence and consider its contents before submitting their final evidence.”

The public inquiry starts on May 19.