THE latest battle between the district's MPs could prove a bridge too far for one of them

Lancaster's Hilton Dawson has upset and angered Morecambe and Lunesdale's Geraldine Smith for initiating moves to close Denny Beck Bridge to traffic.

The narrow single track bridge is regularly used by many of Halton's 2,000 residents to cross the river and gain access to the motorway.

Residents on Hilton's side of the Lune have lobbied him to reduce the flow of traffic in the narrow lane leading to the bridge.

But Geraldine's constituents consider the bridge an important access route and are concerned that moves are afoot without full and proper consultation.

"Hilton has once again angered a large number of my constituents with another of his daft ideas," said Geraldine. "Denny Beck bridge is one of only two bridges that cross the Lune between Lancaster and Gressingham and is a vital artery for many residents of Halton and surrounding villages. Its closure would not only inconvenience many motorists but it would also force traffic through the village and add to the already terrible congestion at Skerton Bridge."

She added: "I've every sympathy with the handful of residents living on the other side of the river but when they bought their properties they must have known that it's a popular route for motorists. Moves to close the bridge have been started without any consultation with me the MP, the parish council or any residents of Halton. That's totally unacceptable and I'll be doing everything I can to keep the bridge open."

Hilton replied: "I have no intention of getting into a duel over the River Lune with Geraldine over this. I would expect a serious discussion about it. I think she's perfectly entitled to express any views."

He added: "It's quite true I've had a private meeting with constituents and officers from the city and county council about this. It's also quite true that I'm very concerned about the road safety implications about using what is a very narrow and twisting country lane. I think closing that bridge is an option but I would acknowledge that it could cause difficulties for people."

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