RESIDENTS have the chance to see multi-million pound plans for the transformation of a key motorway junction near Knutsford.
Junction 19 of the M6 is to undergo a £43 million overhaul, with a new bridge through the existing roundabout and over the M6, creating a better flow between the motorway and the A556.
This will speed up journeys and reduce congestion around the roundabout itself. There will also be improvements for pedestrians and cyclists.
Work on the scheme is planned to start in March this year, and is scheduled for completion by summer 2021.
Public information exhibitions for the scheme are to take place at Mere and Tabley Community Centre, Chester Road, Mere, on Friday, January 24 between noon and 5pm and on Saturday, January 25 between 10am and 3pm.
The scheme aims to add a two-way link across the junction to allow better connection between the M6 and A556, including a new bridge spanning the M6 within the roundabout; renew traffic signals on the roundabout and its approach roads; add new traffic signals for the Tabley Hill Lane/Pickmere Lane junction, add new signs and improve local access for walkers and cyclists using the junction.
A Highways England spokesman said: “Since our previous events in May 2018 we have been finalising our scheme design and completing the Highways Orders process, which has been authorised by the Secretary of State for Transport.
“We’ve also been planning how we will construct the scheme, including the methods for installing the new structures and the closures we will require.
“At the public information exhibitions there will be an opportunity to learn more about the construction works and timetable, and to meet members of the team from Highways England and our contractor, Amey Sir Robert McAlpine. The team will be happy to answer any questions.
“This busy junction is used by 65,000 vehicles each day, and is in need of improvement to meet the expected increase in traffic coming from the M6 and the A556.
“This increase is further exacerbated by the expansion of Manchester Airport (Airport City) and the development of the Wythenshawe MediPark.
“M6 junction 19 improvements are part of a wider collection of schemes to improve connections between Cheshire and South Manchester, including the completed A556 between Knutsford and Bowdon, the improved B5569 and the M6 junction 16-19 smart motorway.
“The changes are vital for reducing congestion in the future, improving safety and journey time reliability for all road users and increasing connectivity between local areas. The plans will also improve access for walkers and cyclists.”
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