The Institution of Civil Engineers has thrown its weight behind plans for a second Mersey crossing at Halton – centrepiece of the ambitious Mersey Gateway project.
The Institution’s support comes at a critical stage in the project’s planning, with the Government’s spending review due to go public on 20 October.
ICE North West Cheshire Chairman David Rowlinson says a second crossing is crucial for the region’s long term economic development.
“While the existing Silver Jubilee Bridge provides a vital infrastructure link across the river, the pressures of dealing with ever increasing traffic levels are putting it under unacceptable duress,” said Mr Rowlinson.
“We believe the local authority has made a convincing financial case for a second crossing between Runcorn and Widnes, while the economic benefits it will bring to the region are both tangible and sustainable,” he added.
Halton Borough Council’s submission outlines the extensive benefits of the project, which include:
- 70 per cent of the cost being met by the private sector;
- Benefits which are fourfold greater than the project cost;
- An estimated 4,640 new jobs through direct employment, regeneration activity and inward investment;
- An estimated annual £61.9m in Gross Value Added by 2030.
Mersey Gateway Project Director Steve Nicholson is delivering a keynote address to Institution of Civil Engineers members on 07 October.
“The submission draws on information we have developed since funding support was secured from government back in 2006. Although much of what we say is well known and demonstrates the scheme’s exceptional value for money, the submission addresses the particular points the Government has set out in its criteria for the Spending Review,” he said.
“The support we’ve had from our private and public sector partners across the region over recent weeks has been fantastic,” he added.
The aim of the Mersey Gateway Project is to build a new six lane toll bridge across the River Mersey between Runcorn and Widnes. The Silver Jubilee Bridge will also be tolled as part of the project.