Work to begin on phase 2 of Manchester Road Active Travel scheme

17 September 2026

New crossings, cycleway improvements and enhanced walking routes will be delivered as part of phase 2 of the Manchester Road Active Travel scheme, with construction due to begin on Monday 5 October.

The scheme – funded by Active Travel England – will provide a range of improvements along Manchester Road between Wilmslow town centre and Handforth, helping to make cycling, walking and wheeling safer and more accessible for all users. It is expected to complete in spring 2027.

The works include an extension to the segregated two-way cycleway, improvements to the Network Rail bridge to accommodate new cycling infrastructure, new cycle bypasses at two bus stops, two new zebra crossings at Bluebell Way and Styal Road, and footpath improvements.

Advance warning signs will be installed shortly to help residents, businesses and road users prepare for the start of construction.

Councillor Mark Goldsmith, Cheshire East Council's cabinet member for highways and transport, said: "This cycle scheme was originally chosen by the public following consultation, so I am pleased to see that we are delivering what the community wanted. 

“I'd like to thank everyone who attended our recent public engagement event and spoke with the project team about the proposals. The feedback really helps us understand local priorities and ensure people get the correct information too. 

“While a separate cycle lane on each side of the road was a common request, unfortunately the environmental and financial cost for this is just too high. The road would need widening, which is expensive and would remove the mature beech trees that are a key part of the character of Manchester Road. Therefore, the two-way cycle lane format of phase 1 will continue. 

“This investment will now provide everyone with a better, safer connection between Wilmslow and Handforth. Cyclists will be segregated from the traffic, pedestrians will benefit from the new crossings and car drivers will have a fully resurfaced road too.

"We know construction work can cause temporary disruption, and we'd like to thank everyone for their patience while these improvements are carried out."

A range of temporary traffic management measures will be required during the works, including temporary traffic signals, lane restrictions and a road closure later in the programme. Details of traffic management arrangements will be shared in advance and diversion routes will be provided.

Further information about the scheme, including construction updates, traffic management arrangements and a response to the feedback received at the recent engagement event is available on the project web page.