ROADWORKS have started today (Monday) to prepare the way for a major highways scheme in Crewe.

Traffic light systems are in place on Middlewich Road and Minshull New Road, and a three-way system is in force on Smithy Lane, along with other small sections of traffic management, and all of these will stay in place for around four weeks.

The main works on the The North West Crewe Package are set to get underway by the summer.

The scheme will see highways and junction improvements made around the Leighton area to ease congestion and improve access to Leighton Hospital, as well as housing developments.

A new road will be built linking Smithy Lane, Minshull New Road and Middlewich Road/A530 (see graphic), as well as the realignment of Smithy Lane, Flowers Lane and improvements to other road junctions.

There will also be an extension of the Connect 2 walking and cycling route to Leighton Hospital and the north west side of Crewe and a section of Minshull New Road outside Leighton Academy will be closed to traffic to create a safer environment for pupils.

Balfour Beatty is carrying out the preparatory work on behalf of Cheshire East Council.

Councillor Craig Browne, deputy leader of Cheshire East Council, said: "It is great news that these early enabling works are underway and I would like to thank motorists and local residents in advance for their patience and understanding while traffic management is in place."

The traffic management measures will operate from 9.30am to 3.30pm, Monday to Friday

The North West Crewe Package forms part of the borough council's Local Plan Strategy.