WARRINGTON South David Mowat MP says he is 'surprised' the council is trying to 'make an issue' out of tolls over the new Runcorn-Widnes bridge.

Council leader Terry O'Neill told Monday's full council meeting that there was still no word from Government over how free crossings for Warrington residents would be funded.

They were promised by Chancellor George Osborne in a visit to the construction site in April.

Mr Mowat MP said: “The Chancellor of the Exchequer made a clear and unambiguous statement in April that Warrington residents would not have to pay tolls once the new Runcorn Bridge was constructed.

"Since the election I have confirmed that this remains his intention. It’s important to note that the Labour party refused to scrap tolls for motorists in Warrington.

“The new bridge will not open for two years so I am a little surprised the council seems to be trying to make an issue of this.”