A BUSY road in Lymm is shut for 16 weeks while work is going on to install additional electric vehicle charging points at Lymm Services.

This has meant that a trench is being dug to install eight underground cables on Cherry Lane and there is a full road closure up to Booth’s Lane.

SP Energy Networks’ substation is said to be ‘vital to make sure the electricity network is ready for a greener future.’

The work was originally planned using two-way traffic management, however, SP Energy Networks said that existing underground utilities and the close proximity of passing HGVs don’t allow for a safe working distance to be maintained on Cherry Lane.

So, the closures have led to frustrations in the village.

Councillor Graham Gowland said: “Providing charging points for electric cars is an important part of the plans to reduce carbon emissions, however imposing a 16-week closure of this busy road is unreasonable.

“Speaking to the company, it’s apparent they simply looked at a map, and discounted Cherry Lane as a ‘B’ road, giving no consideration to the residents that use it, and the businesses that are dependent on customer access.

“I’ve worked to address some of these issues – so signage will be improved, but I’ll be continuing to raise the community concerns, to encourage the works to be completed as soon as possible.

“One thing this has highlighted is the use of the road by HGV’s – there is a 7.5 tonne limit that needs to be enforced, and had it been properly managed, may have meant the road could have stayed open for longer.”

 

Cllr Gowland has been raising the communities concern

Cllr Gowland has been raising the communities concern

 

A spokesperson for SP Energy Networks said: “This road closure will be in place for up to 16 weeks.

“However, we are working hard to try and reduce the duration. We have agreed with Warrington Borough Council to work seven days a week (7am – 7pm) to complete the work as quickly as possible.

"A diversion route is in place and is clearly signposted. We will be maintaining access for all properties that are affected by the closure.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused to local people as a result of this unforeseen closure.

“We are reviewing the rest of our planned work in Lymm and will keep local people informed in advance of any further traffic management measures needed later in the summer, which may include additional closures.”

Further works between Booth’s Lane and Barsbank Lane are still to be scheduled.

Lymm Parish Council has asked for an update and residents will be informed ahead of the works.