COUNCILLORS representing areas on the west side of Warrington have launched a bid to reverse the borough council’s decision to support a new toll bridge over the Mersey at Widnes.
Coun Jo Crotty (right) has “called in” the executive board’s controversial decision and it will be considered by scrutiny chiefs next Tuesday, April 7.
She is supported by councillors Keith Gleave, Jim Regan, Trudi Wood and Kevin Reynolds.
The councillors – all Liberal Democrats – believe tolls on the proposed Mersey Gateway bridge will result in a big increase in traffic congestion in Warrington as drivers divert to avoid paying the toll.
Last month the executive board decided it would support the bridge plan, despite previous reservations.
Council leader Ian Marks said: “Another bridge will be great – the only issue is the toll.
“Despite our reservations, we are prepared to continue to support the plans. There are precedents in other parts of the country that show tolls can change.
“Tolls are not necessarily there for ever more.”
Coun Bob Barr, executive member for planning and regeneration said: “We have to consider the long term economy of the North West.
“At this particular time, nobody would forgive us if we missed this opportunity to create employment in construction.”
A public inquiry into the Mersey Gateway bridge – which will stand alongside the existing, but now inadequate, Silver Jubilee bridge – will open at Widnes on May 19.
