Esther lobbied Government for help to carry out urgent repairs to make Winnington Swing Bridge safe has welcomed the cash injection – but warned it is not a long-term solution.
Tatton MP Esther McVey said what was needed was a new waterway crossing and the current plans were only temporary measures.
She welcomed a Department for Transport announcement Cheshire West and Chester Council would be handed £780,000 for the vital repairs, awarded through the Local Highways Maintenance Challenge Fund – a pot of cash councils can bid for.
Ms McVey said: “I am delighted Government has provided the money to carry out the much-needed urgent repairs but what I want to see is a plan for a new waterway crossing and a time frame for this to be put in place. I will be speaking with Government ministers to highlight the severity of the situation and see what can be done to secure the improvements we need.”
Ms McVey previously discussed the issue with Transport Secretary Grant Shapps.
Mr Shapps said: “‘I’m pleased to have worked with Esther McVey and to be able to support Cheshire West and Cheshire Council in their request for funding for the repair of the Winnington Swing Bridge. I do understand it is an important thoroughfare for local residents and that it needs repair whilst a longer term solution is agreed for crossing the river and canal in that area.”
