UPDATED 2nd November

Work is progressing to schedule. British Waterways are completing load testing of the bridge. If that passes then, dependent on weather conditions, all resurfacing works are scheduled to be completed by the end of this weekend, 6th November.

Bad weather will delay works such as white lining, and the road cannot be opened without that. This would mean a couple of days delay into early w/c 7th November.

A Press Release from Cheshire County Council can be found here.

The section affected is from Dones Green traffic lights (A49/A533 crossroads at the Texaco garage) through to the ' The Riverside', including Acton Swing Bridge. The reason for the closure is to replace the bottom layers of the road, which are close to failing, although the tarmac surface shows no visible problems. The work is being done now while the budget is available.

The programme of works is as follows:

• Work will start on Monday 10th October.
  (1 week later than originally planned)
  
• The works should be completed in 4 weeks.
  
• Stage 1: Closure of Acton Swing Bridge for 1½weeks.
  (2weeks if delays due to weather etc.)
  The bridge is too narrow for contractors and traffic to pass safely under alternate line working (temporary traffic lights).
  Additionally, the bridge deck is constructed of 'longitudinal beams' meaning it is unable to carry traffic without a proper surface.
  
  The bridge will remain open for pedestrians and bicycles.
  
  The section from the caravan park, down to the swing bridge will also be started, under single alternate line working (temporary traffic lights) during the time the bridge is closed. Access will be permitted for residents and businesses.
  
• Stage 2: Closure of section from Dones Green traffic lights (A49/A533 crossroads) to Caravan park (just north of canal bridge) for 1½weeks.
  (2weeks if delays due to weather etc. )
  The road is too narrow for contractors to work and traffic to pass safely under alternate line working (temporary traffic lights).
  
  Work on the section between the caravan park and the swing bridge will continue and be completed during this time under single alternate line working (temporary traffic lights). Access will be permitted for residents and businesses.

Smithy Lane and Willow Green Lane will be open as normal.
There will be signs indicating that access is for local access, residents and businesses only.

Although not a signposted diversion (see below for official diversion), an increase in local traffic is likely on these lanes.

Vehicle Passes:
Local residents in the immediate area of the works should receive letters from Cheshire Highways and vehicle passes for the works. It's recommended that these passes should be kept in the car.

Cheshire Highways will monitor the amount of traffic using the closed section, and marshalls will challenge vehicles they suspect are not local. If a local resident finds they require a pass, contact admin on 891541.

If any resident finds that the increase in traffic on Smithy Lane and/or WillowGreen Lane is unacceptable, inform admin on 891541 and he will insist that the Highways Department rigourously enforce marshalling. Additional passes will be made available to any residents affected.

Pubs and businesses:
All four pubs have been met with in the last month by representatives of Cheshire County Council Highways. Signs will be erected at Dones Green crossroads and 'The Riverside' stating "Businesses Open as Usual".

Official Diversion: via A49/A559/M56 Junction 10 at Stretton then A559 to Lostock Gralam, A556 (Northwich Bypass) to A556/A49 crossroads at Sandiway then A49. 'Clockwise route' from Lostock Gralam via A559, Northwich Town Centre and A533 to A556 (at Davenham Roundabout).

If you have any further concerns or questions, please contact Matthew, Little Leigh . Net Admin