As Secretary of the pressure group for pedestrians and cyclists ( www.path-n-pedal.com ), I would like to express our groups fullest support for a tidal barrage across the Mersey.

It would make sense to place any barrage as far downriver as practicable, so as to contain the maximum possible volume of water and thereby obtain the maximum yield of generated power.

Creating a foot/cycle-path across the river along the top of a barrage would be an excellent way to increase uptake of carbon-free travel in Merseyside. Any such link would be highly desirable, bearing in mind the fact cyclists/pedestrians are barred from using the tunnels.

In a climate of ever-increasing energy costs and with continuity of non-renewable supplies no longer 100% certain, tidal power makes a great deal of sense. A physical barrage containing tidal turbines would be far superior to placing submersible generating units in mid-stream and provide a significantly greater yield.

N.B. One notes there is now renewed interest in a River Severn barrage

Best regards,
Peter Owen (Secretary).