Cheshire East’s biggest investment in 10 years?

Motorists may be rejoicing Cheshire East’s lavish plans for its highways and transport network.

The council claims it will be the ‘Biggest investment in 10 years improving Cheshire East’s roads and transport networks.”

But the facts paint a slightly different picture.

Cheshire East says it will spend £53m in 2025/26 in its transport infrastructure – with a focus on improving the roads people use the most, enhancing bus services and providing more and better routes for those walking, wheeling or cycling. 

ilovemacc would suggest that motorists, already taxed to the hilt and struggling with crumbling roads, should be a priority – rather than walkers or cyclists.

The £53 million they highlight comprises just £14.4m from Cheshire East, government funding of £38.6m, Government Transport Grant of £7.75m, a £5.4m Government Local Bus Grant and up to £5.5m Government funding for highways maintenance works. 

So out of the headline grabbing £53 million Cheshire East motorists can expect less than 10%!

Councillor Mark Goldsmith, chair of Cheshire East Council’s highways and transport committee, said: “This investment will deliver real improvements that people will see and feel in their daily lives – spending money where it will have the greatest impact. 

“Whether it’s smoother roads, better bus connections, or safer routes for walking and cycling.  We’re committed to making Cheshire East a better place to live, work, and travel through safer, greener, and more accessible transport options.”  

Cllr Goldsmith added: “Our priority is to keep Cheshire East moving and help people to get from A to B – whatever form of transport they use.“

That wouldn’t appear to include cars!

He went on: “Clearly, despite the significant investment we will make this year, we still don’t have enough money to do everything we’d like to do. This is especially true for roads maintenance. 

“We will continue to push the case for more and sustained government funding for our highways network and prioritise where we make investment – focusing on using the right treatment, in the right place at the right time.” 

All annual planned highway schemes for 2025-2026 are viewable on the council’s online interactive mapping system: cheshireeast.gov.uk/roadrepairprogramme.