New road scheme is aiming to put brake on drivers
AREVISED traffic scheme will be implemented in Macclesfield after the originally proposed version caused a large amount of complaints.
Traffic calming measures will be installed on Ivy Road to reduce the volume and speed of through traffic as part of a Cheshire East Council transport project to encourage walking and cycling.
Initially the proposals were to shut the road to vehicles except buses but a backlash said this would cause rat runs elsewhere and much inconvenience.
Now the altered scheme is set to be introduced along with seven others in the borough on an ‘experimental basis’.
Councillor Laura Crane, cabinet member for highways, said: “These initial projects are experimental and will be subject to ongoing feedback and discussions with our communities. That is why we sought the views of local residents and councillors and have responded to what they said.
“This engagement will enable us to monitor and refine these measures before anything is considered to be made permanent – so we get schemes that are right for each community.”
The eight schemes are the result of submissions from town and parish councils across the borough, which generated 500 ideas.
Altogether
they
cost £155,000 and one of the others is work to improve access for cyclists in Macclesfield town centre.
It is hoped they will help reserve capacity on public transport for those who need it and reduce congestion on some school routes.
Further schemes will be developed following pledged government funding of up to £619,000.
Coun Crane said: “We know people’s travel behaviour has changed during the lockdown and we are determined to lock in the benefits of more people walking and cycling.
“Ditching the car and taking up daily walking or cycling is good for your health, and good for the environment.
“Being successful, with more people walking and cycling as a result of these measures, may attract additional funding from government and we welcome feedback, both positive and negative.”
For more details visit https://cheshireeastactivetravel.commonplace.is/.