AN automatic 'free-flow' toll system and surface improvements are planned to be introduced at Warburton Toll Bridge 'in the longer term'.

Site owner Peel Ports met with representatives from Warburton Toll Bridge Action Group and Warburton Parish Council, as well as Trafford and Warrington councils yesterday, Tuesday.

The parties discussed ‘ongoing concerns in relation to congestion causing disruption to communities’ around the site near Lymm.

In a joint statement, they said: “The meeting was productive with a constructive dialogue maintained with a number actions agreed, which will now be progressed, with a view to alleviating the issues in the shorter and longer term.

“This includes clarification of the operational process to raise the toll during a period of extreme congestion occurred by incidents such as closure of the Thelwall Viaduct, exploration of weekly and monthly tickets and introduction in the longer term of automated free flow tolls and surface improvements.

“The views and concerns of the community were well put and understood.

“There is a genuine desire across the parties to reach a resolution as soon as possible.

“There was agreement that all parties would continue to work collaboratively.

“Regular meetings with now take place to ensure progress.”

The action group currently has more than 1,990 members.

For more information about the campaign visit the Warburton Toll Bridge Action Group Facebook page.