THE long-awaited public inquiry into plans to build a second bridge across the River Mersey will finally start today.

Last night, the man driving the project, Halton Council leader Tony McDermott, said it would be the pinnacle of his career.

Cllr McDermott has submitted a letter in support of the £431m gateway project, saying it was the most important of his political career.

He said: “During my 11 years as leader, this has been the most important, most difficult and, yet, the most exciting project I have been involved with.

“The proposals before the inquiry are supported by extensive investigation and assessment of alternatives, exploring different routes for the new crossing and also looking into public transport and travel demand as solutions to the acute failure of the Silver Jubilee Bridge.

“I feel confident that we have developed the best solution, which is economic, it fits the environment and it is deliverable within the funding terms we have agreed with Government.”

The inquiry, led by Inspector Alan Gray, will start this morning at Halton’s Stobart Stadium, and is expected to last from six to ten weeks.

After hearing evidence from Halton, the Mersey Gateway project team and objectors, the inspector will then make a recommendation to the Secretary of State as to whether the proposal should go ahead.

The Government has given its backing to the project, which will see a new tolled bridge between the Central Expressway in Runcorn and Eastern bypass in Widnes.