Mersey Tidal Power, the world’s largest tidal power scheme, has entered the formal planning process and will soon start the first public consultation phase.

The barrage project aims to provide clean, predictable energy for 120 years and power hundreds of thousands of homes, while also creating thousands of jobs and a new walking and cycling route crossing the River Mersey.

A six-week public consultation on the scheme will begin on October 1, offering local people and organisations the opportunity to comment on initial proposals for a tidal barrage across the River Mersey and its associated infrastructure.

Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram said: “The Mersey Tidal Project is one of the most challenging schemes to deliver due to the environmental, ecological and economic considerations, but it’s potential to generate clean, green and predictable energy would be worth all the effort we are putting into this planning stage.”

“The River Mersey has been the lifeblood of our region’s fortunes for centuries, and today marks another important milestone in its future. With the launch of our first public consultation and the start of the formal planning process, Mersey Tidal Power is moving closer to reality than at any stage in our history.”

“This project has the potential to power hundreds of thousands of homes with renewable energy for 120 years while creating thousands of green jobs. It’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to cement our position as Britain’s Renewable Energy Coast and help lead the global charge to net zero. This is about much more than just an energy generation scheme—it’s a chance to build a lasting legacy for our people and our planet.”