Rimrose Valley Judicial Review decision deferred

Sefton Council presented its case at the High Court to review the decision by Highways England not to consult on the option of a tunnel for the proposed Port Access route when they undertook a consultation exercise to determine their preferred route option.

The council argued that despite having promised to do so, Highways England failed to include the tunnel option in its consultation or in any event failed to include it in a lawful way.

Sefton is of the view that the tunnel option would have merit and the only option which could balance the need for improved access to the port with the needs of the local community.

As part of the hearing, Sefton asked for an Order quashing the preferred route announcement and an Order requiring Highways England to re-consult about the tunnel option before any decision as to the preferred route is re-taken.

After hearing both sides of the case, judgement has been deferred to another date.