A government minister visited Crewe to check out the state of the roads - after the Conservatives brought forward a scheme to charge agencies for the use of the highway.

Local Councillors met with Richard Holden MP, (Minister for Roads and Local Transport) in Willaston and Rope and Wistaston wards on Sunday 16 April as he dropped by on his way north.

Cllr Allen Gage (Willaston & Rope), highlighted issues on Rope Bank Avenue, which has consistently failed over the past four years to attract cost-saving, level II patching repairs.

Local Councillors met with Richard Holden MP, (Minister for Roads and Local Transport) in Willaston and Rope and Wistaston wards on Sunday 16 April (Nub News).

Dane Bank Avenue was cited by Cllr Margaret Simon (Wistaston), as an example of interim pot-hole repairs and utilities activity.

Both have compromised the overall integrity of this busy road - providing essential access to primary, secondary and college provisions.

Conservative Group Leader, Cllr Janet Clowes, highlighted the group had brought forward a budget amendment to the February Budget which was supported by a large cross-party majority.

This amendment, called a 'Lane Rental Scheme,' will require agencies who dig up roads - to pay a charge for the use of the highway.

Cllr Clowes told Nub News: "This budget amendment will see Cheshire East introduce a 'Lane Rental Scheme' requiring agencies that dig up our roads to pay a charge for the use of the highway.

"This can be used to provide improved highways repairs and servicing.

The Conserbative group brought forward a budget amendment to the February Budget which was supported by a large cross-party majority (Nub News).

"I've been assured that a scheme will be ready for submission to the Minister within the next 12 months."

Richard Holden MP was appointed Parliamentary Under Secretary of State or Roads and Transport in October 2022.

The North West Durham MP added: "I know how important the maintenance of roads is, not only here in Crewe but also nationwide.

"Recently, the Government increased the annual potholes budget by 40%, meaning an additional £2.3 million for Cheshire East's road maintenance.

"However. I must agree with local residents and Conservative councillors who are concerned the Labour-run council isn't using this funding as effectively as it could, with too many potholes currently blighting local roads." 

"While extra money is a big step in the right direction, long term solutions are also necessary.

A 'Lane Rental Scheme,' will require agencies who dig up roads - to pay a charge for the use of the highway (Nub News).

"That is why I'm glad, that even from opposition, the Conservative group has proposed a lane rental scheme.

"This will make improvements more effective, efficient and timely whilst holding local utility companies accountable for the works they do on local pavements and roads." 

READ MORE: Crewe man charged with drink driving after car crashes through barrier.

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