EXCITING plans for the new Mersey Gateway crossing could see trams as well as cars providing a vital link from Halton to Liverpool.

As part of the proposals commuters and shoppers from Runcorn and Widnes would be able to travel by tram across the Mersey and right into the centre of Liverpool.

And an extension to the ambitious project could see trams running along Runcorn's pioneering Busway network to serve the town's estates.

The system would provide an employment boost to deprived areas such as Castlefields and enable people to commute further for work.

Warrington-based company, Light Rail (UK) Ltd, has put together the revolutionary plans.

It argues the trams will benefit the town both environmentally and from a health benefit position, bringing a better quality of life to Halton residents.

Halton council leader Tony McDermott has already voiced his support for the plans.

He recently announced he will push for the tram system to be extended beyond Liverpool John Lennon Airport to Widnes and into Runcorn over the proposed Mersey Gateway Bridge.

A spokesman for Halton council said: 'The council is in support of the tram-link to Runcorn. If the plans where to go ahead there would be provisions made on the new Mersey crossing.'

It would be the proposed Line Three which would travel to Runcorn, via Liverpool John Lennon Airport, Hale Road and Widnes. Cars would travel on the upper level of the bridge while tram tracks would be on the lower level.

The lower level would also be shared with emergency vehicles and buses.

The line would also provide back up position to access the Ditton freight railway service.

Jim Harkins, managing director Light Rail (UK), said: 'It can be argued that a tramline improves, regenerates and continues to contribute to a higher quality of life for residents, employers, employees, business users, tourists and the varied visitors.

'Trams can run in places where trains cannot, therefore are able to travel into residential areas and built up shopping areas. They are also more accessible for parents with buggies and disabled people using wheelchairs.

'Trams are generally electrically operated, smooth, quiet and a pollution free mode of public transport, fantastic news for the fight against global warming.'

Funding for the tram-link could come from a number of possible sources including Regeneration Programmes and Developer Contributions.