THREE hundred and sixty years on from the final conflict of the English Civil War, another ‘Battle of Winnington Bridge’ is brewing.

It’s a battle that has been fought many times before without success, but the community remains hopeful of putting an end to travel issues caused by the swing bridge.

With 1,800 new homes being built in Winnington Village, and Winnington Lane roadworks exacerbating regular tailbacks, the River Weaver Navigation Society is renewing calls for a two-lane bridge.

Society president John Tackley said: “The RWNS has always supported the regeneration of land beside the River Weaver and believe those who have moved into the Winnington Urban Village, with the lovely river on their doorstep, deserve a better crossing across the river than the one-lane Winnington Swing Bridge.”

The grade II-listed swing bridge was built in 1909, replacing an earlier version from 1871, and Barnton Parish Council has asked for improvements to enable two-way traffic and footpaths since 1937.

Mr Tackley added: “With borough council elections in May, I am now asking potential candidates from all parties to come off the fence and support a new bridge across the River Weaver at Winnington.

“It is ironic that 50 yards away from the swing bridge was the scene of the 1659 ‘Battle of Winnington Bridge’. Who would have thought 360 years later this would be the scene of another battle?”

MPs on either side of the bridge – Mike Amesbury for Weaver Vale and Esther McVey for Tatton – are also being asked to pledge support to the campaign.

Barnton resident Tony Rowe said: “The current roadworks indicate the level of traffic we’re likely to see with the 1,800 houses in the Winnington Village. Travelling into town from Barnton is now so unpredictable, we may have to consider shopping elsewhere.”

Nick Hughes, manager at the Winnington Park Recreation Club, added: “We welcome the Winnington Urban Village as our neighbours and, although they can walk to the club, The council has a duty to ensure an adequate road infrastructure is in place for all.

“Leaving Park Road in late afternoon at present can be very difficult – it must be a nightmare for those travelling home from work to the Urban Village.”