MOTORISTS are warned to expect disrupted journeys after a major road in Widnes closed to make way for the Mersey Gateway.

The A557 Watkinson Way, which links the Silver Jubilee Bridge and Widnes Eastern Bypass and was used by many drivers from St Helens to get over the bridge, was shut permanently in both directions from 7.30pm on Sunday, April 23.

It is expected that this major route closure will add time to drivers’ journeys in the area.

The essential closure is required to finish construction of the new road network in Widnes so traffic can access the new bridge.

This section of Watkinson Way will be dismantled and removed over the coming months as part of this work opening up extra land for development opportunities in the area.

A diversion will take traffic travelling between the Widnes Eastern Bypass and the Silver Jubilee Bridge via the new Widnes Loops roundabout, Hutchinson Street and Wandsworth Way. 

Wandsworth Way will be open to two-way traffic to maximise vehicle flow in the area until the new bridge opens.

There will be a temporary diversion route created for a short period on Sunday evening which will take traffic using this route via Ditton Junction whilst the full-time diversion route and signage is fully set-up.

Hugh O’Connor, general manager of the Merseylink Consortium, said: “We always knew we’d have to close Watkinson Way completely to finish the work but I’m very pleased that we have been able to keep the route partially open over the past twelve months.

“I’d urge everyone to drive safely through the roadworks in the area, because that is vital for keeping drivers, pedestrians and workers safe along the route.”

Halton Council leader Cllr Rob Polhill said: “It is good to see the project team is now re-opening roads more than we are closing them.

“I know that reducing the closure time for Watkinson Way by 12 months is much appreciated by everyone who drives through Widnes.

“It’s worth remembering that we’re getting a lot closer to the day when the new bridge will mean quick, easier and more reliable journeys for everyone across the river.”