Manchester Road Handforth to Wilmslow Active Travel scheme

We are working to deliver a new 1.5-mile walking and cycling route between Wilmslow town centre and Handforth, as part of our Active Travel scheme.

This project is funded by Active Travel England.

What is happening?

The Manchester Road Active Travel scheme is part of the works to improve accessibility and provide an enhanced safe cycle and walking route, connecting Wilmslow and Handforth.

Works to deliver these highway improvements started on 18 August 2025, with Phase 1 of the works continuing until Spring 2026. The works have been planned to minimise disruption to businesses and residents. 

The works include:

• installation of a new segregated cycleway
• two new toucan-controlled crossing for pedestrians and cyclists
• improvement of Stanneylands Road junction including additional pedestrian crossing and a new cycle gate
• introduction of a bus stop bypass
• installing improved signage along the length of the route
• reduction in speed limit from 40mph to 30mph
• improvement to existing footway crossing at side roads and businesses
• extension of existing parking restrictions

We have completed

• works between Station Road up to the Bulls Head Pub
• resurfacing works between Stanneylands Road and Handforth Bridge
• construction of the new cycleway and installation of new bus stop bypass and kerbing along the cycle route

The next phase of the works will include the closure of the Stanneylands/Dean Row Road/Manchester Road junction for 9 days from Monday 2 February 2026.  We will be working weekdays between 08:00 until 17:00, on-site information boards will be displayed with up-to-date information.

Site plan

• Handforth to Wilmslow active travel scheme (PDF, 2.6MB)

Road closures and diversions

Under current health and safety legislation and for the safety of our members of the public and workforce, it is necessary for a combination of road closures and temporary signalised controls to be in place during the works.

Works are being completed in phases and suitable diversion routes are in place. We will be working during the day on all weekdays between 08:00 and 17:00; however, on occasion, it may be necessary to work during the weekend  to ensure that work is completed in line with the schedule.

Access for pedestrians and cyclists will be maintained. Cyclists may be asked to dismount through the road works.

• Use only the signed routes
• Remain alert for moving vehicles and machinery
• Respect our workforce and equipment

Bus services will continue during the closures, however, there may be some impact to the service. Bus companies are aware and will be operating revised routes - you can check our bus service timetable and journey planning webpage for more information regarding timetable changes.

Waste collection services will not be affected.

Emergency services are aware of the works and access will be facilitated where possible. They are aware of the diversion route in place. 

More information on roadworks, closures and diversion routes can be viewed online on our Roadworks Map

Further information

• Diversion routes will be signed to assist in the movement of traffic while works progress.
• Local businesses remain open and access will be facilitated where possible.
• Delays are expected and motorists should plan their journeys accordingly.
• Public on-site information boards will provide help and advice.