NORTHWICH’S MPs have backed calls to replace Winnington Swing Bridge with a new two-lane road.

The River Weaver Navigation Society is stepping up its campaign by holding a talk to update residents on the issues at hand.

The aim is to influence the Cheshire and Warrington Local Transport Body to give higher priority to the bridge in their sub-regional transport strategy, which identifies a long list of 46 studies in need of attention.

The Winnington Swing Bridge is mentioned in this strategy but has not been identified as a priority, but with 1,800 new homes being built in the new Winnington Urban Village, the RWNS sees the swing bridge as a vital component for the area’s economic aspirations.

John Tackley, RWNS president, said: “I recently spent two days at the successful Anderton Boat Lift behind-the-scenes weekend and was surprised how little our local residents know about the lovely River Weaver with its heritage, picturesque walks and adjacent woodlands.

“Many were keen to support our campaign to push for a two-lane bridge at Winnington but did not realise the boat lift was only a half hour walk via the river from the town centre.

“We are pleased to have received support from both our local MPs to help prioritise the replacement of the bridge and our job now is to get local residents behind the campaign.”

Tatton MP Esther McVey said: “Many people in Barnton and the wider Tatton constituency are anxious that we get a two-lane bridge at Winnington and indeed, it was one of the first issues mentioned to me locally after my election.

“At the moment the swing bridge is only vaguely mentioned in our region’s transport strategy. I’ll be working behind the scenes to get it prioritised.”

Weaver Vale MP Mike Amesbury added: “The case for a crossing is clear. At the Winnington Urban Village 1,800 new homes are being built in Weaver Vale to support the region’s growing economy.

“It is essential that these new and existing residents have an easier trip to work and back again in the evening.

“At the moment a big stumbling block is financial and we need the government to fund vital pieces of infrastructure such as this. I will be pushing hard to ensure the case is made for such a vital crossing.”

n The free Winnington Park Rec Club event, on Thursday, March 14 at 8pm, will feature an illustrated talk by Colin Edmondson followed by an open discussion on the swing bridge.

Seats are limited. Email meeting@rwns.co.uk or call 01606 76204 to register interest.