Flower Pot junction improvement scheme

A scheme to improve the Flower Pot junction – of Ivy Lane, Park Lane, Congleton Road and Oxford Road – has been approved by Cheshire East Council.

The junction has long been the site of congestion, with a report into the project identifying ‘proposed developments in the area which would increase pressure on this junction’.

This will see the introduction of a designated left-turn lane, more space for cyclists and the addition of pedestrian crossings.

The scheme will be funded through a combination of government grants, developer contributions, and the council’s capital budget.

The decision was welcomed by ward councillor Brian Puddicombe who said: “It is good to see the green thread of tackling the climate agenda.

“As a local ward member, I do support the much needed improvements to this junction.

“This is all a part of supporting investment in walking and cycling as part of that green thread.”

The council’s cycling and walking champion, Cllr Suzie Akers Smith, welcomed the proposals, but asked for further design changes to be made – to protect cyclists and pedestrians.

She was told by Cllr Laura Crane, cabinet member for highways, that ‘design tweaks’ could be made when the final plans come together.

Completion of the scheme is anticipated by summer 2022.