Multi-billion-pound Mersey Tidal Power project edges closer
Having been spoken about for years, the enormous clean energy scheme has taken a “huge step” forward with the formal planning process underway.
Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram has revealed he will pursue a barrage between Wirral and Liverpool as the preferred option for the city region’s flagship Mersey Tidal Power project.
The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority will be asked at its March meeting next week to approve the submission of a scoping opinion to the Planning Inspectorate later this year for what could be the world’s largest tidal power scheme.
The barrage could generate clean, predictable energy for 120 years and create thousands of jobs in its construction and operation.
In addition, the project opens up the possibility of creating the first-ever cycling and pedestrian route over the river between Liverpool and Wirral and could also provide a defence against future flooding risks associated with climate change, according to the combined authority.
Rotheram said the scheme would position the city region as “a leader in the green industrial revolution”.
“The River Mersey has been the lifeblood of our region’s fortunes for centuries – and it has an even more vital role to play in our future,” he said.
“Mersey Tidal Power has the potential to generate clean, predictable energy for 120 years, create thousands of green jobs and apprenticeships – and all but seal our area’s status as Britain’s renewable energy coast.”
A walking link between Liverpool and Wirral is planned. Credit: via LCRCA
While the scheme is progressing, Rotheram is “under no illusions” about hurdles still to be overcome.
“We know there are still significant technical and financial challenges to overcome, but the plans we’ve unveiled today mark a huge step on our journey to bringing Mersey Tidal Power to life.
“Quite simply, the case for tidal has never been clearer – both for our economy and our planet.”
The project could be up and running in a decade, according to the combined authority. However, the scheme would require significant government backing to get off the ground.
That being said, a barrage option would be less expensive than a lagoon, requiring less material and lower levels of government support, the CA said.
If agreed, prior to the scoping opinion being submitted the Combined Authority would carry out a period of engagement, regionally, and nationally, with stakeholders. Once the scoping opinion is received, the CA will hold formal consultations across communities and stakeholder groups.
