Changes to the docks route could include road-user charging

The 10-year strategy for economic regeneration will involve improving safety, promoting integrated transport and protecting the environment.

Plans include improvements to the Huyton junction of the M57 and M62 motorways, alterations to the Orrell junction at the M58 and M6 and changes to Switch Island at the M57.

The route is "vital to the economy of the region", the Highways Agency said on Thursday.

Work has been scheduled as part of the government's 10-year strategic plan for transport across the UK, and developed out of consultation with residents.

Highways Agency Project Manager Andrew Olive said: "This Route Management Strategy has been very useful in finding out what particular problems were concerning the people who live near and use the route.

'Detailed proposals'

"Further studies will now be carried out on problems identified and detailed proposals prepared when a case has been identified for improvements to be carried out.

"The report acknowledges the importance of the route to the economic success of the Port of Liverpool."

Mr Olive said further work will be done to try and minimise any "damaging effects" on local communities with the increase in freight traffic on the route.

Options to be investigated further, include bus priority lanes, lanes for heavy goods vehicles, high-occupancy car lanes and the possibility of road user charges.

The strategy has also looked at increasing the number of people using public transport, park and ride schemes, noise reduction and installation of electronic information signs.