THE public inquiry into whether a second bridge should be built across the River Mersey is drawing to a close.
Closing statements from both sides will be heard by the planning inspector on Thursday, bringing the complicated inquiry to an end – weeks earlier than expected.
The inquiry, which has been running for the last six weeks, is finishing ahead of schedule as a number of objectors withdrew during the programme.
Speaking yesterday, Cllr Tony McDermott, leader of Halton Borough Council and chair of the Mersey Gateway executive board, said: “We are very satisfied that the inspector has looked in detail at our plans and heard from everyone who wanted to give their views.
“We believe our plans are robust and are confident that we have put the best possible case for this project to the inspector.”
He added: “This is the biggest and most important project I have ever been involved in. It can be the catalyst that delivers thousands of new jobs and opens up huge areas of Runcorn and Widnes for regeneration, and would also fund major improvements to our public transport systems here in Halton.”
