Update on disruption caused by Flood Defence works

LOCAL Cllr. Mo Hussain has given an update on the flood defence road works causing disruption to motorists and residents on Old Liverpool Road, Great Sankey, Warrington.

Cllr Hussain says he recently raised concerns with Warrington Borough Council on behalf of residents regarding the disruption caused by the ongoing flood-risk management works at Old Liverpool Road.
He said: “I’ve now received a detailed update from the council, and I want to share the key points with you:”

🔹 This is a major and essential flood-risk project involving deep excavation, heavy equipment and a significant amount of infrastructure work. To keep workers and the public safe, a road closure is unavoidable.
🔹 Hood Lane junction has been temporarily closed this week due to a large number of uncharted utility pipes and cables found in the ground. It is unsafe for vehicles to pass the open excavations while the new drainage system is installed.
🔹 Contractors are working as safely and quickly as possible to restore access.
🔹 Official diversion routes are clearly signed:
Old Liverpool Road → Thewlis Street → Sankey Green Roundabout → A57 Sankey Way → A562 Penketh Road (and vice versa).
🔹 Some motorists have unfortunately been using residential streets to bypass queues. The council hopes this will settle down as drivers now understand the closure.
🔹 Closing Malpas Drive or adding double yellow lines is not possible at this time, as this would require legal orders and formal consultation.
🔹 There have been reports of dangerous driving, cones being moved and abuse towards workers.

The council has:

• Installed CCTV
• Equipped staff with body cameras
• Worked with Cheshire Police, who will be reviewing footage and carrying out random patrols to ensure safety and enforce the closure.
🔹 The council will continue to monitor the situation and improve traffic management where needed.

Cllr Hussain concluded: “Thank you to all residents for your patience and understanding. I will continue to liaise closely with the council to ensure the impact on our community is minimised.”