AN early warning system to provide motorists with times of planned swing bridge movements is to be launched in Warrington by July.

Detection equipment has now been installed at Latchford Locks and Runcorn Old Quay and work is now under way to link this equipment with the council’s traffic control room.

A system will then be developed to publish the information online and through social media.

The new system comes after the Warrington Guardian launched a campaign to stop the swing bridges in Latchford, Stockton Heath and Walton from opening during rush hour.

Clr Linda Dirir, executive board member for highways, transportation and climate change, said: “Peel have promised that the only time a vessel will pass through during peak time is when there’s no practicable alternative, and we’re confident that this will be a major help in reducing disruption."

Nick Bent, the Labour candidate for Warrington South in the next election, said: "We are making progress with Peel but a cross-party consensus behind my plan for an independent tribunal is the best way to guarantee a fair deal for Warrington."