Aphra Brandreth, Member of Parliament for Chester South and Eddisbury, secured a House of Commons debate to raise serious concerns about the deteriorating condition of local roads, and the failure of local councils to act.
Ms Brandreth warned that residents across the county are facing dangerous conditions, long delays for repairs, and a reactive approach to filling potholes that wastes time and money. Ms Brandreth criticised both Cheshire West and Chester Council, and Cheshire East Council for poor planning, ineffective maintenance, and a lack of transparency over how highways funding is being allocated.
“Residents are rightly fed up. They don’t want to see their council tax or Government grants wasted on crumbling repairs and short-term fixes,” said Aphra Brandreth.
One of the most alarming examples raised during the debate was the state of Newcastle Road, leading up to the roundabout serving the Wychwood Village and Wychwood Park estates. It’s a 60-mile-per-hour road, with a deteriorating surface and intermittent potholes. Traffic weaves in and out of this pothole slalom on the approach to the roundabout and has led to multiple accidents.
Despite repeated requests over a two-year period for resurfacing or repairs, Cheshire East Council has refused requests. Instead, funding has been channelled to more urban areas.
“In rural areas, we see a pattern of piecemeal patch-ups on individual potholes rather than long-term, cost-effective repairs that offer real value for money,” Aphra Brandreth said.
She added, “I’ll continue to press both councils and national bodies to make sure our rural communities are no longer an afterthought. All road users deserve safe, reliable infrastructure.”
Ms Brandreth also expressed disappointment at the Government’s response to the debate.
“Ministers talk about funding in broad terms, but they fail to acknowledge what’s actually happening on the ground. We need more than warm words. We need a real plan to fix our roads and hold local authorities to account.”
Ms Brandreth is encouraging residents to continue reporting issues directly to the relevant council and to contact her to raise concerns.
“When constituents raise issues, I will always do what I can to follow up with council officials and shine a light on where urgent repairs are needed.”
Residents can contact Aphra Brandreth MP here or by writing to Aphra Brandreth MP, House of Commons, SW1A 0AA.
