... but critics fear ‘rat runs’
PROPOSALS to make Macclesfield’s Ivy Lane closed to most traffic have been criticised - with claims it will be inconvenient and turn other nearby routes into rat runs.
From Wednesday, August 12, only pedestrians, cyclists and buses are allowed full access to the road as part of an East Cheshire Council travel scheme.
But it has been said that there has been insufficient consultation ahead of implementing the measure, which itself has been branded ‘counter intuitive’.
Adam Schofield, ex-Mayor of Macclesfield and former town councillor for Macclesfield West, said: “Not all residents are able to walk and cycle.
“Those living on one side of the closure will be forced to drive a considerable way to loop back round on themselves to access the amenities on the ‘other side’. Not good for the environment.
“I use the Post Office every day and keep to the main roads, intentionally not using the Weston estate as a cut through. This will now be the only option for most users on the far side of the closure.
“Kendal Road is a well known rat run and is certainly not suitable as an alternative to Ivy Road. Residents who live on the Weston Estate will have an increase of through traffic.”
Another issue raised is that the extra hassle could frustrate motorists into driving faster rather than calming speed.
Resident Liz Brooks says the scheme is ‘counter intuitive and ridiculous’.
She said: “Where was the public consultation before this decision? Would it also not have been a good idea, let alone common decency, to discuss this with the local ward councillors?
“The surrounding areas will become rat runs awaiting the inevitable accidents to happen.
“Was any consideration given to the impact this will have on the Ivy Road Co-op and the Post Office? I find it unbelievable that they would think this to be a good idea.”
The council says the measure - along with eight others across the borough - have been introduced off the back of suggestions from parish, town and borough councillors.
Aims include to aid social distancing, get more people travelling in an environmentally-friendly way, ease congestion and improve routes to schools and workplaces.