THE cost will take its toll on those who use it the most.
That's the message from the people of Halton, who are un-happy that drivers will be charged to cross the River Mersey when the Mersey Gateway opens in 2014.
Last week the Weekly News revealed that the project is dependent on charging people to use the bridges.
The private sector is investing more than £300m in the project which is to be recouped by toll revenue over 30 years.
But Halton Borough Council leader, Cllr Tony McDermott, was hopeful of reaching a solution that will benefit Halton residents.
He said: 'We want a system where locals find it free or at least heavily discounted.'
However, people are un-happy at what they see as paying twice.
We asked shoppers in Widnes town centre what they thought about the idea of both bridges being tolled:
MICHAEL EVANS said: 'I think it's typical of the council. We are already paying for the new bridge through road tax and no-one should have to pay money again.'
KENNY ROBERTS said: 'If taxpayers are already paying for the bridge they shouldn't have to pay for it all over again. And that goes for everyone, locals too.'
RACHEL ABRAM said: 'I'm not too sure about the bridge toll. I do think the charge should be less for regular users though - people who use it more should have to pay less.'
RIAN KRIESELS said: 'I don't think a toll will make much difference. I think there'll be about the same number of people coming in and out of the town even with a toll.'
