Issue - meetings

          The Board received a report and accompanying presentation in relation to the achievement of the seven strategic objectives of the Mersey Gateway Project.

          The Mersey Gateway Bridge opened to traffic on 14 October 2017 and on the eighth anniversary, almost 190 million crossings had been made. The Silver Jubilee Bridge and MGB had been operating concurrently for the past 4.5 years. The Council established the Project with the intention of delivering seven strategic objectives, which had all been achieved, and these were outlined in the report and in the presentation.

          The Project had delivered major transport improvements and an 80% reduction in traffic using the Silver Jubilee Bridge, which allowed it to be freed up for local use.  This had led to social benefits to communities in and around Halton which included improvements to public transport facilities across the river, walking and cycling facilities and health and improved road safety. As a result of reduced air pollution, the Air Quality Management Areas in Halton were revoked in November 2023.

          The Board were also advised on the work of the Mersey Gateway Environmental Trust which had seen the following achievements:

·       creating and managing new wildlife habitats;

·       delivering environmental improvement works;

·       conducting environmental monitoring to assess bird populations; and

·       community engagement such as work with local schools.

          It was agreed that the presentation would be shared with all members of the Council.

          RESOLVED:  That the report and presentation be noted.