As construction work on Chester’s new world class 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, “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 movement of the bus station to Gorse Stacks will enable the next stage of the long delayed Northgate development to take place. This will see a new market and cinema built in the land vacated by the bus station on Hunter street. According to the council the multi million pound development, which goes before planning in the autumn will deliver, 40,000 square metres of modern retail space and create over 1180 new jobs.
The new bus interchange and the new look Frodsham street will open in early 2017.
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