Integrated Transport Working Group

The following members sit on this Working Group:

• Councillor Suzie Akers Smith (Chair)
• Councillor Dave Brown
• Councillor Suzy Firkin
• Councillor Heather Pearce
• Councillor Kay Wesley (Mayor)
• Councillor Glen Williams

Purpose: Congleton Town Council has a Strategic Objective in its 2020-23 Business Plan to ensure that the town’s transport infrastructure is integrated and sustainable. CTC intends to develop a sustainable, flexible transport system that meets the needs of all residents and creates a cleaner, better connected Congleton by 2030. This is closely connected with the Congleton Green initiative to reduce our carbon footprint and improve air quality. Reducing the number of cars on our roads and using more environmentally-friendly transport options is a key part of our green agenda.

Objectives:

• Develop a Sustainable Transport Masterplan for Congleton and surrounding parishes
• Promote exisiting infrastructure for sustainable modes of transport
• Review current bus and train provision and develop proposals with Cheshire East Council (CEC) for integration
• Review provision for car drivers including electric charging points and Car Parking strategy
• Run a safety campaign and educational programme for motorists, walkers, cyclists and wheelchair users
• Reinforce the need for high quality transport plans from developers of new housing

Recent Achievements:

• CTC agreed to look further into becoming a Living Streets Town
• Made contact with the Integrated Transport Foundation and discussed options for Congleton
• Provided feedback to CEC on the Local Transport Plan
• Sent suggestions to CEC for bus improvements in Congleton
• Sent proposals to CTC for submission to CEC on the COVID-19 town centre safety measures

Next Steps:

• Review transport content of the Neighbourhood Plan and provide input as part of the re-draft
• Invite Richard Hibbert of CEC to a meeting to initiate discussions on integrated transport for Congleton
• Ask the Integrated Transport Foundation to a meeting to advise the group on steps to putting together a transport plan for Congleton

Partners: This group collaborates with the following:

• Congleton Sustainability Group
• Congleton Partnership
• Cheshire East Council

In January 2024 Cheshire East Council released a report into changes to traffic flows in Congleton due to the Link Road. The full report can be read by clicking onto take me to the Cheshire East report on the Link Road. (January 2024)

How Can You Help: Do you work in transport and have a contribution to make? Please get in touch to send us your ideas or knowledge about public transport or active travel, or volunteer to help, email us at info@congleton-tc.gov.uk.