Cheshire East vow to tackle safety issues

A CAMPAIGN to increase safety on a notorious Middlewich road gained momentum this week as Cheshire East Council vowed to take action.

The safety of Booth Lane has been called into question over the past few years following a number of fatal and serious collisions along the road.

Campaigner David Williams and Middlewich Town Councillor Steve Mitchell met with Cheshire East Councillor David Topping at the beginning of July to discuss the issue of safety on the road and Cheshire East Council are now exploring ways in which to reduce the risk of future fatalities.

Clr Topping, Cabinet member in charge of the environment, said: “I had a very positive and useful meeting with David and Steve.”

“The issues they raised centred on the safety of the residents of Middlewich and I am pleased we were able to agree a way forward on all points raised.”

At the meeting, David and Clr Mitchell highlighted the issue of lighting, poor condition of the road surface, poor road markings and lack of facilities for cyclists.

Also discussed was Cheshire East Council’s new proposal to lower the speed limit on the road and the possible installation of community speed traps and interactive speed signs along the stretch. 

Clr Topping added:““We have agreed to review the lighting decision at the southern end of Booth Lane, by Tetton Lane.”

In terms of road markings

, we will refurbish existing lining and road ‘studs’ to support the street light switch-off and provide edge-of-carriageway marking next to the verge where no kerbing is present.

“Reflective posts along Booth Lane may be an option and we will review the length through the street-lit area and establish where reflective marker posts may be provided to better define the carriageway edge.

“Other items such as road calming measures were discussed and I will be looking to attend a meeting of the South East Cheshire Cycle Action Group.”

David said that he was pleased with the outcome of the meeting but added that the new safety features must be monitored closely to ensure the danger risk is successfully reduced.

He said: “I am pleased with the initial actions agreed, which are largely addressing issues of underinvestment going back years, but we have to see whether the number of accidents comes down.”

“I am still particularly worried about whether bringing down the speed limits will reduce speeds on the road and the authorities must monitor how drivers respond and if necessary introduce additional measures.” More information about the program is available on the web site at streetlights-solar.