A long awaited new footbridge into the Cheshire Oaks retail haven is to be monitored for parking problems.

The McArthurGlen designer outlet, close to the M56 and M53, has completed the first phase of installing the pedestrian and cycle route running from the busy malls to nearby Thornton Road.

McArthurGlen believes the installation of the new link, part of the centre’s £40m 21st birthday mega makeover, will improve accessibility for the 2,600 employees who currently work there and encourage more shoppers to discover Ellesmere Port town.

How the expanded Cheshire Oaks could look

International consultancy and construction company Mace Group, based in London, who are running the makeover, are managing the installation of the new link which will see cyclists being required to dismount.

The bridge was recently installed overnight with new footpaths to be constructed and additional works due before the feature is up and running later in the autumn.

Concerns date back to the original planning permission that the bridge will lead to parking problems on Thornton Road.

Planning officers explained the connection will give improved pedestrian access to Stanney Grange and will benefit access by local residents either as customers or staff.

They added, though: “There are some concerns that the provision of the footbridge could encourage parking taking place on the surrounding roads, near to the bridge, by those wishing to avoid parking within Cheshire Oaks itself and that this could lead to concerns and issues for the local residents.

“In terms of potential crime and disorder issues the new route will be lit and monitored by CCTV and the outlet village operators will retain control over the bridge which is gated and expected to be closed at night.

“In light of the above concerns about potential increased parking in the residential areas it is recommended that the applicant undertakes a period of monitoring of the parking situation in that area for a period of at least 12 months, post the opening of the bridge.

“If such issues were occurring they would then need to fund remedial measures to address them such as traffic regulation orders/residents parking schemes.”

Plans for a £23m expansion at Cheshire Oaks have been given the go-ahead
Plans for a £23m expansion at Cheshire Oaks have been given the go-ahead

Manchester based WSP consultants were commissioned by McArthurGlen to produce a monitoring plan covering Thornton Road, Alnwick Drive and adjoining courts.

Several public consultations have been carried out and residents, councillors and the police have been involved with it being recognised the new bridge provides a ‘risk’ of Cheshire Oaks customers parking in the adjacent residential areas.

As a result Cheshire Oaks staff will be discouraged from parking there and any increases in non residential parking will be monitored.

The centre management team will handle complaints of persistent abusers and will liaise with local residents. Councillors and MP Justin Madders (Lab) will also be kept informed.

Among other measures there will be a leaflet drop to householders and an e mail address for complaints which McArthurGlen will investigate.

In the event of severe problems, a temporary closure of the bridge would be considered.