MIDDLEWICH Eastern Bypass has been backed by Mid Cheshire’s new MP.
Labour’s Andrew Cooper has reiterated his support for the proposed 1.6-mile carriageway.
All that is needed is Government funding which, despite years of campaigning, has still not been granted.
Fiona Bruce, the former Conservative MP for Congleton - Middlewich's previous constituency - said this is down to Cheshire East Council’s Full Business Case, which demonstrated ‘poor’ value for money.
With the council set to submit new plans this autumn, Mr Cooper is hoping these will be approved.
In a letter sent to Minister for the Future of Roads, Lilian Greenwood MP, he said: “I write to express my strong support for the re-submission of the Full Business Case for the Middlewich Eastern Bypass scheme.
“The scheme is at an advanced stage of development, fully designed with planning consent and all necessary legal agreements secured with key partners, including Network Rail and the Canal and River Trust.
“This presents an excellent opportunity to advance our commitment to fostering economic growth and addressing infrastructure inequalities across the country.”
Middlewich Eastern Bypass will connect a new roundabout off Pochin Way in the north of the town to a new roundabout junction in the south, connecting with the A533 Booth Lane.
Mr Cooper believes this will bring ‘transformative benefits’ to the local community by diverting heavy goods vehicles away from residential areas.
This will ease congestion and reduce pollution levels, particularly in areas designated as Air Quality Management Zones.
“Moreover, the bypass is not just about immediate traffic relief; it is a strategic initiative that will drive the broader regeneration of Middlewich and the surrounding areas in Cheshire,” Mr Cooper added.
READ MORE: Wait for £95.7m bypass continues as Government accused of ‘levelling down’ town
“The completion of this scheme will unlock 1.5 million square feet of industrial and logistics space in a regionally critical location, provide land for up to 1,950 new homes, and potentially create up to 2,500 new permanent jobs.
“Given its potential to boost the local economy, improve quality of life, and support sustainable development, I urge you to give due consideration to the Middlewich Eastern Bypass scheme.
“Its successful delivery is essential for securing the long-term prosperity of Middlewich and enhancing the economic resilience of the region as a whole."
It is estimated that the bypass would cost £95.7 million, with £24.9 million of this being provided by Cheshire East Council and developer contributions covering another £22.8 million.
Cheshire East Council is currently working with the Department for Transport on a new Full Business Case.
This is expected to be submitted in the autumn.
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