CONTROVERSIAL plans to build a new junction on the M62 came under scrutiny at a long-awaited public inquiry this week.

The inquiry, led by Inspector Sir Norman King, was called after the £20 million Highway Agency scheme prompted more than 300 official objections from residents.

Warrington Borough Council has supported proposals to build a new junction eight on the M62 to the west of Burtonwood Services and to widen the motorway to four lanes at junction nine, Winwick.

The plan's supporters say it is vital to the future success of Gemini Retail Park and the Omega development site, which is expected to generate up to 10,000 jobs for the town.

Residents, councillors and interest groups gathered at RAF Burtonwood on Tuesday to hear the Highway Agency's opening statements.

Highways Agency solicitor Ms Frances Patterson said: "Warrington has seen some significant growth since its designation as a New Town in 1986. But that success has left a legacy of infrastructure problems which now require resolutions. However one looks at it, this scheme represents extremely good value for money."

She added: "Accident rates at junction nine are between three and seven times the national average. This plan will alleviate traffic congestion caused by retail attractions such as IKEA and Marks and Spencer."

Objections to the scheme will be heard in the course of the inquiry, which is expected to last four weeks.

Residents of Kingswood, near Callands, fear the proposals would result in increased traffic congestion in their area.

The project is to be funded by the Commission for New Towns.

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