The proposed Mersey Gateway bridge between Widnes and Runcorn _400
A PUBLIC inquiry will take place into plans to build a second bridge across the River Mersey.
The Department for Transport announced yesterday that a public inquiry will be held into Halton’s Mersey Gateway Bridge.
No date or venue has been set, but it is expected to take place at the start of the next year and last around three months.
Following several years of development, the council submitted plans for the new six-lane bridge to the Government earlier this year.
They have been waiting for a decision in the hope of keeping the project on target.
Key milestones towards the opening in 2014 predict the results of the public inquiry in late 2009, with work starting on the bridge in 2011.
The team leading the project have welcomed the announcement, seeing it as bringing the bridge one step closer to reality.
Cllr Tony McDermott, leader of Halton Borough Council and chairman of the Mersey Gateway Executive Board, said: “This is excellent news as it means we are still on track to deliver a new bridge and the new jobs, homes, transport infrastructure and inward investment that the associated regeneration programme will bring to Halton.”
He added: “We have said all along a public inquiry is important and would be needed for the Mersey Gateway as this is such an important and complex issue.
“We firmly believe everyone needs to have the chance to give their views and contribute to a very public debate.
“I would urge the Government to act quickly to confirm a date and venue quickly so that the inquiry can get underway and involve as many people as possible.”
Both the new bridge and existing Silver Jubilee Bridge will be tolled as part of the project.
The exact toll levels are still to be determined but they are likely to be similar to the cost of travelling through one of the Mersey Tunnels, currently £1.40 for a single car journey.
The rising cost of the Mersey Gateway project was revealed last month with the flagship scheme costing 11% more than predicted.
Councillors unanimously backed the scheme which now stands at £431m, with the £41m increase caused by changes to the design.
David Parr, chief executive of Halton Borough Council, said: “It is good news for all residents, commuters and businesses across the region.”
