TRAFFIC monitoring cameras have been mounted in Middlewich to collect data for the eastern bypass business case.

The camera will monitor traffic flow on key routes through the town, with figures set to be presented to the Department for Transport as part of the larger case.

A long-awaited bypass would help divert traffic away from Lewin Street, where a camera has been placed by Cheshire East Council’s Highways team.

Cllr David Brown, deputy leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “The implementation of the traffic cameras is the next phase in the council developing the business case for the much-needed bypass for Middlewich.

“This will provide the traffic statistics in order to satisfy central government of the requirement to ensure traffic flows in Middlewich will be significantly enhanced by the scheme.

“It is envisaged that this business case will be submitted in spring 2017 and hopefully this will lead to government support to fund the bypass.”

Fiona Bruce MP helped secure £1.25 million earlier this year to fund Cheshire East Council plans for the bypass. The project will be assessed by transport minister Chris Grayling in the spring.

Cheshire East Council recently held a month-long consultation focusing on transport options in Middlewich, and has also promised a consultation on bypass route options to help inform the business case.

Middlewich is in line for around 2,000 new homes, including potential large developments in Brooks Lane and Centurion Way. The Ansa environmental hub is also set to open in 2017.

Cllr Jonathan Parry, Labour town councillor, said: “I welcome anything that adds towards the progress of the bypass but we want to see action rather than words, we’ve been getting words for 30 years.

“It’s great to see they’re collecting the data and I accept that they have got to do these things but it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to tell you that we need a bypass.

“It should’ve been done a long time ago and I just hope it kicks on quickly now.”