As construction work on Chester’s new bus interchange enters a new phase, some changes to traffic flow will be needed in the Gorse Stacks area of the city.
From Monday 15 August, the start of public realm works will require temporary road closures, affecting Gorse Stacks and Brookdale Place.
The works will include altering the kerb lines to footpaths, replacing the footpath paving material, and resurfacing carriageways.
The closure of Gorse Stacks will start from the junction with Oulton Place and continue to its junction with Cow Lane Bridge and there will be no through traffic allowed along this section of road for a period of approximately 15 weeks.
Entry and exit to the car park at the rear of Waterside View will be maintained from the junction of Gorse Stacks and Oulton Place while the works are taking place.
The two supermarkets in the area will be open as usual. To maintain a route for vehicles to Tesco, Iceland and Kaleyards car parks the currently closed access from Hoole Way Roundabout onto Cow Lane Bridge will have the traffic restriction for ‘Buses and Taxi’s only’ revoked and be opened up to all traffic.
Frodsham Street is presently closed to through traffic due to a separate scheme of public realm works that are being carried out in this area.
Brookdale Place and the existing short stay parking bays will be closed to vehicles and discussions will take place with local businesses regarding alternative delivery arrangements.
Pedestrian access will be maintained on Brookdale Place throughout the works along with access to the rear of the businesses via Union Terrace.
Councillor Brian Clarke, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Infrastructure, said: “The purpose of the temporary closures is to ensure that the public realm works connected to the Bus Interchange can be carried out in a safe and efficient way, while still maintaining pedestrian access along these routes.
“Our contractors, Graham Construction, have organised signage and also contacted residents and businesses in the area to explain what will happen. I’d like to thank everyone for their patience and support as this exciting project takes shape.”
The new Bus Interchange is a vital enabling project for the proposed Northgate development in Chester city centre which will deliver 40,000 square metres of modern retail accommodation and create over 1,180 new jobs.
The project is expected to open to the public in early 2017.
