AN MP backed plans for a second Mersey bridge claiming it was more important to Merseyside than the axed tram scheme.
MP for Halton Derek Twigg spoke out at a public inquiry into the Mersey Gateway project which would see a second crossing built between Runcorn and Widnes.
He said after talking to his constituents, many of whom work and have businesses in Liverpool and across Merseyside, support for the bridge was strong.
Mr Twigg said: "Four years ago, at the time of the debate over the cancelling of the Merseytram scheme, Liverpool business people told me that while they supported the tram, they believed the Mersey Gateway was even more important to the economic regeneration of Merseyside.
"There is no doubt a vibrant and economically successful Liverpool benefits the rest of Merseyside including Halton."
Mr Twigg said a second crossing was crucial to future economic growth, with good transport links essential to the success of the science park at Daresbury, the rail freight development at Ditton and the Widnes waterfront.
Under questioning from John McGoldrick, from the National Alliance Against Tolls, Mr Twigg said: "I would prefer a toll-free bridge, particularly for Halton residents, but I am aware that is currently not government policy."
