CAMPAIGNERS have hit back after Peel Ports said staff at Warburton Toll Bridge have been 'verbally abused' – and insist they do not condone such behaviour.

Tolls returned to the site, near Lymm, in June following the installation of a temporary payment booth after the previous structure was destroyed in an arson on May 10.

And work to replace the temporary booth with a permanent one started yesterday, Sunday.

Site owner Peel Ports confirmed tolls will be suspended for the duration of the works, until August 29.

Charges are planned to be reinstated in both directions on August 29.

Peel Ports confirmed additional security measures have been installed following the arson attack, while the new booth will also include extra security features.

A spokeswoman added: "We are concerned that some members of the local community, purporting to represent the action group, have condoned the arson attack and our staff have been subjected to verbal abuse both over the phone and in person at the toll bridge.

"Peel Ports staff have also been subjected to abusive messages in e-mails and on social media.

"We remain committed to working with the official representatives of the action group to speed up the statutory process of public consultation and permissions which are required in order for us to proceed with works to improve the bridge and install an automated tolling system."

But campaigners have responded.

Andy Higgins, acting chair of Warburton Toll Bridge Action Group, said: "Warburton Toll Bridge Action Group does not condone the verbal, physical or intimidating abuse, nor harassment.

"We feel that while this group aims to stop tolling completely, or at least mitigate any rises in toll fees, we refute this claim that any group member has abused staff without evidence being provided.

"We would assist Peel Ports and/or the Cheshire/Greater Manchester Police in any way should anyone be suspected of such acts.

"We would, however, have expected Peel Ports to have communicated this to us as soon as they'd received such reports.

"As we have heard this second hand, we will seek more information at the upcoming stakeholder meeting on August 21.

"We are working within the law, we expect our members to also, to complete the aims of the membership."