Bryan Naylor, a long-time supporter of the Fylde scheme, is pushing for a tunnel after environmental campaigners complained about the effects a proposed bridge or barrage may have on wildlife around the Ribble.

Mr Naylor, of Southport, commenting on the Hindhead scheme, said: "The Hindhead tunnel project is similar to the idea of a tunnel under the Ribble estuary in the fact that it is a Site of Special Scientific Interest area and has to be treated accordingly.

"The fact that it is currently being built gives us an enormous opportunity to follow its planning and progress, so perhaps readers would like to give their opinions and create a long-running debate."

Drilling works are currently under way on the Hindhead tunnel, with the work having been timed to avoid disturbing ground-nesting birds.

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