No right turn at Monk’s Heath for Alderley to Knutsford traffic

As of Thursday 15th August, drivers travelling southbound on the A34, out of Alderley Edge towards Congleton, are banned from turning right at Monks Heath crossroads.

Cheshire East Council has made an Order prohibiting vehicles from turning right from the A34 Congleton Road onto the A537 Chelford Road, heading towards Knutsford. Instead drivers wishing to turn right must use Bollington Lane.

In December 2013, the A537 was reviewed as part of a Route Management Study (RMS) as requested by local ward members, parish councils and residents. Following analysis undertaken by Cheshire East Highways, a report was produced detailing a requirement to prohibit the right turn movement from A34 Congleton Road onto the A537 Chelford Road.

A spokesperson from Cheshire East Council said “The reasons for the prohibition of right turn are required due to the collision history at this particular junction. During the latest 5 year period, 2 slight collisions have been recorded as a result of the right turn movement heading south to west.

“As a result of the proposals put forward, a displacement of traffic from A34 Congleton Road onto Bollington Lane will occur and associated traffic signage supporting the proposed restriction will be implemented. However, this will be mitigated by improvements in the traffic signal timings at the junction of Bollington Lane/Congleton Road and at junction of Chelford Road/Bollington Lane to accommodate the increase in traffic flows.

“Comments from residents and other stakeholders have been received by Traffic & Road Safety team with regards to the proposal to prohibit the right turn movement at this junction. In summary, most residents and local ward members support the proposals as they stand and encourage/support for the work undertaken so far.”