Cheshire East Council has approved a huge new development for the southern part of Crewe town centre - improving connectivity in the area.

Crewe's Southern Gateway Pedestrian and Cycling Connectivity Scheme, connecting Mill Street with the rear of Crewe Lifestyle Centre, was approved on Thursday 2 March.

This scheme is aimed at transforming the southern part of Crewe town centre - creating a new arrival point into the town.

There will be new seating areas, trees and shrubs and a new rain garden - located between the cyclist and pedestrian route (Cheshire East Council).

A new cycleway/footway link will be created, set within a public realm scheme - located on derelict land between High Street and Forge Street.

There will be a two-way route for cyclists and a separate pedestrian route - with new street lighting.

Also included in the plans, are seating areas, trees and shrubs and a new rain garden - located between the cyclist and pedestrian route.

As well as connecting Forge Street to High Street, the route will extend south to make the existing roundabout that links High Street, Mill Street, Oak Street (A5078) and Vernon Way (A5019) pedestrian and cycle friendly.

The route will extend south to make the existing roundabout that links High Street, Mill Street, Oak Street (A5078) and Vernon Way (A5019) pedestrian and cycle friendly (Ryan Parker).

Cheshire East's planning officer was satisfied with the proposals, approving the development with conditions.

They said: "This application seeks to improve pedestrian/cycle access from Forge Street to the Mill Street railway crossing and is fully supported in principle.

"Whilst there are aspects that need further thought it is considered these matters can be conditioned."

A new cycleway/footway link will be created, set within a public realm scheme - located on derelict land between High Street and Forge Street (Ryan Parker).

A public consultation for Crewe's Southern Gateway Pedestrian and Cycling Connectivity Scheme was held in June 2022 - with mainly favourable feedback.

Last year, chair of Cheshire East Council's highways and transport committee, Cllr Craig Browne, was excited about the new town centre scheme.

He said: "The council has long-term ambitions to improve pedestrian and cycle links across the borough to encourage an increase in 'active travel."

Last year, chair of Cheshire East Council's highways and transport committee, Cllr Craig Browne, was excited about the new Crewe scheme (Cheshire East Council).

"These ambitions will only be realised with a significant enhancement in funding available from the Department for Transport.

"The Southern Gateway Pedestrian and Cycleway Connectivity Scheme absolutely supports our vision and will create a safer, more attractive, and more convenient walking and cycling route.

"Once built, the scheme will provide the most direct walking and cycling route into the town centre from Crewe station."

The new cycling and pedestrian scheme will be constructed adjacent to Crewe's former Metz nightclub on High Street (Ryan Parker).

A target decision date for Crewe's Southern Gateway Pedestrian and Cycling Connectivity Scheme was originally Tuesday 10 January.

Crewe Nub News has contacted Cheshire East Council for comment on when its plans to begin the new development.