Revealed: the options for M56 junction
HIGHWAYS England has revealed more details of the options for the proposed M56 motorway junction 11a in Runcorn.
The two choices available are to the east and west of the West Coast Main Line.
If the east option is picked, the motorway would be connected to the Southern Expressway via Murdishaw roundabout and to the junction of Northwich Road and Chester Road to the south via a newly-installed roundabout.
The second option to the west of the West Coast Main Line would involve installing two roundabouts, one to the south of the M56 and one to the west of Murdishaw roundabout.
A preferred route is expected to be announced in spring 2017, followed by public consultation and the request for planning permission, with construction due to start in March 2020.
The agency said traffic modelling had found both options to improve journey times and capacity.
Ecological surveys are also taking place and Halton and Cheshire West And Chester councils have been consulted.
Highways England said the scheme was a priority.
It is hoped the extra junction would ease pressure at junction 12 Clifton and improve flows to the Mersey Gateway bridge.
Aims include tackling existing and future congestion and support economic growth.
Highways England has said the M56 is an ‘important strategic route’ linking North Wales to Manchester and Wirral via the A55 and M53 as well as linking to Chester, Manchester Airport, south Warrington, and Liverpool John Lennon Airport.
Residents and road users have been invited to provide their views by email to M56NewJunction 11a@ highwaysengland. co.uk or by calling 0300 470 2733.
A public information event took place at Runcorn Linnets Football Club last Tuesday, September 6.