THREE multi-million projects set to 'tackle critical congestion points on Warrington's highway network' have edged closer after receiving a funding boost.

On Monday at the Town Hall the executive board was given an update on the outcome of the Government's third Local Growth Fund (LGF) announcement.

The three projects to have successfully received 'indicative' LGF cash are the Warrington east phase two, Omega local highways phase one and Warrington sustainable travel schemes.

They will cost £22.5 million in total, with £12.85 million coming from the LGF and £5.74 million from Warrington Borough Council.

The first will build on the 'success' of the completed phase one masterplan – the Birchwood pinch point project.

A major junction improvement at Lingley Green Avenue and Omega Boulevard will be developed as part of the second, with the third set to help deliver a new shared pedestrian and cycling route from Burtonwood to Omega, enable improvements on the Trans Pennine Trail and open up a walking route along the Mersey, adjacent to Chester Road, to link the Trans Pennine Trail to the town centre.

The projects are also set to support the delivery of up to 570 new homes and 1,700 jobs in total.

The executive board acknowledged the LGF 'indicative' allocation of £12.85 million and 'indicative' match-funding of £5.74 million previously approved through the authority's capital investment programme.

Each will be delivered subject to the 'preparation and approval' of a detailed business case.

Members also approved a further £1.95 million funding to 'continue detailed development work' on each of the plans during 2017-18 to enable delivery from 2018-19.

Cllr Hans Mundry, executive board member for highways, transportation and public realm, said: "Each of the schemes that have received LEP funding will tackle critical congestion points on the Warrington highway network.

"Investment to improve traffic flow and offer improved facilities for walking and cycling is necessary to support and maintain the strong economic status of the borough and provide the capacity for growth."

Council leader Cllr Terry O'Neill added: "When you realise this is a growth bid through the Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership it shows how successful we have been through the sub-region.

"I think in the future if we get a devolution deal we will get year-on-year funds to spend in the sub-region."