Middlewood Way footbridge over the Silk Road

Following recent inspections, we need to carry out essential safety work on the Middlewood Way Footbridge, which crosses the A523 Silk Road in Macclesfield. The scheme will include replacing the timber parapets (side barriers), clearing overgrown vegetation and drainage channels, and removing graffiti from the brick walls beneath the bridge.

What is happening

Work will take place from Monday 16 November to Friday 27 November 2026 and will require overnight road closures on the A523 Silk Road between Hulley Road/Brocklehurst Way roundabout (near McDonald's) and Bollington Road/Tytherington Lane roundabout.

To help keep disruption to a minimum, the works will take place overnight on weekdays only, between 9pm and 5:30am. The road will remain open during the day and at weekends.

The works will include:

• Installing new parapets that are stronger, safer and more durable than the existing timber barriers.
• Carrying out repairs and maintenance to the bridge structure to help extend its lifespan.
• Reinstating decking boards to provide a safer and more even walking surface.
• Clearing overgrown vegetation at either end of the bridge to improve its appearance and accessibility.
• Clearing drainage channels along the bridge deck to help water drain freely.
• Removing graffiti from the brick walls beneath the bridge to improve the appearance of the structure.

Footbridge closure

The footbridge will be closed 24 hours a day from 16 November until 27 November 2026 while the new parapets are installed.

Road closures and diversion routes

Once works commence, a road closure will be in place to keep both the public and our workforce safe.

• Signed diversion routes will be in place
• The A523 the Silk Road and signed diversion route will continue to be gritted as needed during winter weather
• Emergency services have been advised of the diversion route
• Local businesses will remain open but will be accessed via the signed diversion route
• Full diversion details can be found on OneNetwork (opens new window)
• Delays are possible, so please plan your journeys accordingly
• Bus companies are aware of the works. Services may run on different routes or timetables, so please check the operator’s website.
• Waste collection services will not be affected but will also follow the diversion route where required.