Cheshire East Criticised Over Errors in £45m Roads Programme

Cheshire East Council has come under fire after publishing plans for major road improvements that incorrectly identified the locations of two A roads—raising questions about the accuracy of the programme.

The authority recently announced a £45 million package of highways and transport works scheduled for 2026–27. The investment is intended to fund upgrades and maintenance across the borough’s road network.

However, confusion arose after the council’s statement referenced work on the A534 Wrexham Road in Wrenbury and the A500 Newcastle Road in Haslington—locations that do not match the actual routes of those roads.

In reality, the A534 runs through Burland, Faddiley and Ridley, several miles north of Wrenbury, while the A500 Newcastle Road links the M6 to Nantwich via the Shavington Bypass, situated south of Haslington.

The errors have prompted criticism from local figures. Councillor Brian Silvester, leader of Crewe First, expressed concern over the inaccuracies, arguing that such mistakes undermine confidence in the council’s highways planning.

Local social media commentary has also highlighted the issue, with one account questioning how such discrepancies could occur and suggesting it reflects a lack of local knowledge.

Despite the criticism, council representatives have defended the wider programme. Councillor Mark Goldsmith, chair of the highways and transport committee, said the investment aims to improve road safety and reliability while addressing key maintenance priorities.

He noted that the works will also support public transport and active travel, including walking and cycling routes, making journeys safer and more accessible for residents.

Goldsmith added that while winter conditions limit the ability to carry out permanent repairs, the spring and summer months provide better opportunities to deliver more cost-effective and longer-lasting improvements.

The council has been approached for clarification on the specific road locations referenced in the announcement.

The wider programme is supported by £10 million in local transport funding from central government via the Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority, alongside a further £5.18 million allocated for local bus services.

Residents can view the full list of planned highway works for 2026–27 through the council’s online interactive mapping system.