A537 Traffic lights installation in Macclesfield

Contractors operating on behalf of developers have informed Cheshire East Council they are now in a position to proceed with the agreed scheme to remove the roundabout at Broken Cross, Macclesfield and replace with a signal-controlled junction.

The works are being undertaken by HA Civils on behalf of the developers, Bellway Homes, to increase capacity at the junction as part of the development of a housing site on a parcel of land between Chelford Road and Whirley Road.

These works have been approved as part of the planning application.A further additional access road will be created from the development onto the A537.

Work to remove the roundabout and install signals is due to begin on 30 August and is in accordance with the agreed planning conditions set out for the housing development on land between Chelford Road and Whirley Road (Planning Ref: 17/4277M) and approved by the council’s strategic planning board on 4 September 2018. 

This followed consultation with ward members, residents and businesses as part of the planning process. The introduction of traffic lights in place of the existing roundabout is to mitigate the highway impact from additional housing in the area and additional levels of traffic. 

The works are delivered through a section 278 agreement with the highways authority. The Broken Cross scheme must be completed to the council’s satisfaction prior to any of the new homes being occupied.

Cheshire East Council is fully aware of the impact these works will mean for people travelling in and out of Macclesfield during this construction project, and we urge drivers to follow any recommended diversionary routes where possible.

The council is also aware of the concerns local residents have about the scheme and are in discussions with HA Civils about their community engagement and communication plans. 

The scheme is due to be completed by 8 November when some work will continue in Pexhill Road, until the 17 November, followed by two further closures in the New Year involving Pexhill Road, Gawsworth Road and Fallibroome Road. 

The council has also taken on board the concerns of residents relating to air quality due to increased levels of traffic arising from the related housing developments. Broken Cross is an air quality management area, and the council will monitor air quality in this locality in the usual way.