Cheshire East Council Approves Main Construction Phase for Middlewich Eastern Bypass

Cheshire East Council has formally approved the main construction phase of the Middlewich Eastern Bypass, giving the green light for work to begin on site in spring 2026.

Councillors unanimously agreed to appoint Balfour Beatty to deliver the stage-two construction of the £53.8 million project, which will be built in phases, including the Cledford Lane element, to help manage costs.

The 1.6-mile (2.5 km) bypass will link Pochin Way in northern Middlewich to the A533 Booth Lane in the south, featuring new bridges over the Sandbach–Northwich railway line and the Trent and Mersey Canal, alongside a combined cycleway and footway.

The bypass is expected to alleviate congestion at the A54/A533 junction and enable the development of up to 1,950 new homes and employment land. Following the council’s submission of the full business case, ministers confirmed full approval for the scheme, with the Department for Transport contributing up to £48 million of the total estimated £107.67 million cost.

Councillor Mark Goldsmith, chair of the council’s highways and transport committee, said:"Delivery of the Middlewich Eastern Bypass has been long-awaited and enjoys strong local support. The scheme will provide significant economic and environmental benefits for Middlewich and the wider Cheshire East area. We look forward to construction beginning and the road opening in spring 2028."