Historic route reopened
A LANDMARK walkway has reopened in the town centre after being closed for several years due to safety fears.
Step Hill, which runs from Church side to Waters Green, was originally closed by Macclesfield Borough Council in 2007 amid safety concerns about the retaining walls.
Since then, the safety of the historic route, also known as Footpath 53, was further undermined due Japanese knotweed.
On Tuesday the pathway was officially reopened with a ribboncutting ceremony led by the Mayor of Cheshire East, Councillor Olivia Hunter.
Keith Wykes from Macclesfield and a member of the Peak and Northern Footpaths Society, said: “I am over the moon the steps are back open to the public again after so many years.”
The bill to repair the path had been expected to top £800,000, but came in at £290,000 following a redesign.
Coun Don Stockton, Cheshire East Council Cabinet member for regeneration, said: “It is really satisfying to see this attractive and historic, landmark walkway reopen – and really great news for the town. These stone steps are part of the historic character of Macclesfield and a key part of investment by the council to improve the fabric of the town centre and make it more attractive and userfriendly for local people and visitors alike.”
The work, which included demolition and replacement of a section of the failed wall and replacing or repairing of the seating area, drystone wall and footpath, was undertaken by Cheshire East Highways and Ansa, the council’s arms-length environmental services company.