The plan, a key objective in the council’s strategic plan, seeks to make Knutsford a more desirable place for walking and cycling by guiding infrastructure changes that enhance ease and safety. It builds upon the previous Knutsford Cycle Infrastructure Plan and incorporates actions to support walking.
This new initiative will complement the Cheshire East Council Local Cycling and Walking Plan, focusing on more localised, practical changes. Cllr Scott Lowe, who led the working group, stated, “It was clear from the consultation that improving people’s experiences of walking and cycling around our town was really important.” The plan was informed by a 2025 community survey.
Enhancements for walking include installing benches along key routes, seeking formal crossings at specific points such as near St Cross Church and the Legh Arms, and exploring dropped kerbs for easier wheelchair access. The council will also investigate improving pavement maintenance and street lighting on routes like Sparrow Lane and Church Walk.
For cycling, the council plans to install cycle parking stands, explore cycle ways along arterial roads, and seek 20mph speed limits on suitable streets. Funding for minor improvements will come from revenue budgets, with the council also pursuing grants and developer contributions through community infrastructure levy and s106 planning obligations.
Cllr Lowe added, “While we don’t have a large budget, we still want to be ambitious in our target. We will push to ensure developers help fund some of the infrastructure we need to mitigate the impact of all the new houses.” The full plan is available on the council's website.
