Balfour Beatty Set to Break Ground on £54m Middlewich Eastern Bypass

Balfour Beatty is preparing to begin construction on the £54 million Middlewich Eastern Bypass after receiving the official go-ahead from Cheshire East Council.

The scheme, secured through the SCAPE framework, will deliver a 2.5km single carriageway route to the east of Middlewich, designed to ease congestion and improve connectivity in the area.

Major infrastructure upgrade

The project includes the construction of two key junctions, along with significant structures such as a new bridge over the Trent and Mersey Canal and another spanning the Sandbach–Northwich railway line. The plans also incorporate active travel provisions, supporting walking and cycling alongside the new road.

Balfour Beatty has been working in partnership with Cheshire East Council and design partner Jacobs UK on the scheme’s development, as well as coordinating with stakeholders including Network Rail and the Canal & River Trust.

Construction timeline and benefits

Main construction is scheduled to begin in May 2026, with completion targeted for summer 2028. At peak delivery, the project is expected to support around 150 jobs, including opportunities for apprentices and graduates.

Kay Slade, Managing Director of Balfour Beatty’s Regional Civils business, said the project reflects the company’s strong relationship with the council and its experience delivering complex transport schemes.

She highlighted the value of early contractor involvement in shaping the project and ensuring it delivers meaningful benefits for the local community.

Long-term impact

Once complete, the bypass is expected to reduce traffic through Middlewich town centre while supporting economic growth and improving transport links in the wider region.

With construction about to get underway, the project marks a significant step forward in addressing local transport challenges and creating lasting infrastructure improvements.