Poynton Shared Space - Highway improvement works

We are carrying out highway improvements works at Poynton Shared Space to improve the condition of the highway and the drainage system, and to install new street lighting.

Poynton Shared Space, introduced in 2011, was designed to calm traffic and create a people‑focused environment where drivers, cyclists and pedestrians naturally pay closer attention to one another, leading to safer, more pleasant movement through the centre.

As the area has aged, essential maintenance is needed to strengthen the road, improve drainage and provide a more durable layout, while preserving the Shared Space principles of wide pavements, low vehicle speeds and easy pedestrian movement.

We’re replacing the existing block paving in the shared space areas with a buff‑coloured asphalt. The new surface will be safer, more durable and still in keeping with the look of the area. The buff colour that will be used will still provide good contrast for all users, including those with visual impairments, and is the closest practical match to the existing colour.

To support sustainability and reduce waste, any damaged block paving setts from the site will be recycled and reused on future projects.

The project

Works to deliver these highway improvements started on 16 March 2026, with works being phased to help to facilitate access to businesses and residents, and to minimise disruption. 

The following works are taking place:

• installation of new street lighting on London Road North, London Road South and Chester Road
• drainage improvement works on London Road South
• improvements to Fountain Place
• road resurfacing and improvement works on London Road North, London Road South and Chester Road

Artist impression of the coloured surfacing that will replace the existing block paving

Road closures and traffic management

To keep both our workforce and the public safe, road closures and traffic management will be required while the works take place. The project will be completed in phases, with suitable diversion routes provided throughout. Work will take place during weekdays and on some weekends to help keep the programme on schedule.

Road closures and traffic management are currently in place following the phased approach outlined below*

During the works a utility company will need to install a new water main within the shared space area. To prevent any damage to the newly laid surfaces and repair works taking place as part of our works, the resurfacing of London Road North, London Road South and Chester Road and the repairs to Fountain Place will take place at a later date, when the utility works have been completed.

Between completed drainage, repair and resurfacing works, the road will be temporarily opened to minimise disruption.

These temporary measures do not incur any additional costs. This approach is more efficient, allowing the coloured asphalt resurfacing to be completed in a single phase rather than multiple visits, reducing material waste and avoiding duplication of work.

The dates for the resurfacing of the shared space will be updated on the phasing plan once we receive confirmed dates.

* All dates are approximate and may be change as the work progresses.

Access for pedestrians and cyclists will be maintained at all times. Cyclists will be asked to dismount.

Bus services will continue during the closure, however, there may be some impact to the service. Bus companies are aware and will be operating a revised route - please check their website for more information regarding timetable changes.

Waste collection will not be affected. We are liaising with the waste management team to address any concerns and ensure waste collections are carried out.

Emergency services are aware of the planned closures and access will be facilitated where possible. They are also aware of the diversion arrangements in place for emergency vehicles.

Roadworks, closures and diversions are displayed below:

Diversion route for Chester Road

Diversion route for London Road North

Diversion route for London Road South

Work progress update

Phase 2 of the drainage works on London Road South were originally due to finish on 29 May 2026. Uncharted utility services were found in the footway, which required extra work and pushed the expected completion date to 29 June 2026.

Despite these challenges, the works were completed ahead of schedule, allowing London Road South to reopen two weeks earlier than planned.

Works update

• Replaced the existing street lighting on Chester Road, London Road North and South, remedial work to footways will be carried out in future phases.
• Removed 40 tonnes of old road surface on London Road South
• Removed the granite sets on London Road South and placed them into storage
• Completed the drainage works on London North South

Further information

• The road closures and traffic management are necessary to protect the safety of both members of the public and our workforce
• 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
• On site personnel will be on hand to provide help and advice to members of the public for the duration of the scheme and are the best way to find out more information about these works
• Delays are expected and motorists should plan journeys accordingly
• Signage will be out in advance of the works starting, located at key points on the road

Contact Highways

We have a new way to report an issue.

Report an issue on traCE

If you consider a highways issue to be a danger to life: