Handforth road improvement scheme phase two finishes ahead of schedule

Cheshire East Council has completed the second phase of the Handforth road improvement scheme two and a half weeks ahead of schedule.

Phase Two began on 8 January and was completed in just four weeks. The scheme has delivered enhanced cycling and pedestrian provision, with wider footways, new drainage, kerbing, road markings and additional traffic calming measures.

The improvement works have taken place on the B5358 from the Wilmslow Road roundabout to Stanley Road, in Handforth. The highways project is a continuation of Phase One between Spath Lane and the A555 Manchester Airport Relief Road.

Completion had been scheduled for 26th February.

Funding for both schemes has been from monies set aside from the A555 MARRS (Manchester Airport Relief Road) exclusively to promote active travel provision in the north of the borough, therefore, there is no impact on the council’s highways budget.

Councillor Craig Browne, Cheshire East Council deputy leader and chair of the council’s highways and transport committee, said:

“I congratulate our highways service on delivering both these schemes in such a timely manner, and with minimal disruption.

“I recognise the road closures involved have caused some inconvenience to residents and businesses and I extend my thanks for their patience and co-operation. I hope that people will agree that this has been a worthwhile investment, making walking and cycling safe on what is a busy road.”

Councillor Chris Hilliard, the council’s walking and cycling champion, said:

“The council is committed to active travel, allowing residents to walk and cycle in safety. These two schemes will be of great benefit to our residents in this part of the borough and, hopefully, will encourage more people to walk or cycle and leave the car at home for those short journeys in their local community.”