Sefton Council’s Judicial Review application against Highways England will be determined by the High Court sitting at Manchester Civil Justice Centre on Tuesday, October 23.

Sefton Council asked 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 will argue 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 Council believes the tunnel option would have merit and is 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 is seeking 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.

The Council has instructed a leading QC to represent them and although it is possible a judgement will be given on Tuesday (October 23) it may be deferred to another date.