Leaders say the improvements will ‘make a huge difference’
Businesses have issued a plea for customers to keep visiting them as a £2.6m project has shut a key North Staffordshire road. Works are now underway on the A520 around Cellarhead as part of a six-month programme to fix the busy route.
Now businesses based on and around Leek Road have urged customers to keep shopping with them while the scheme takes place. Yesterday (April 27) and crews started work on the southbound stretch from Cellarhead lights in the direction of the city boundary.
Staffordshire County Council, who are overseeing the works, say the road will be shut off until May 25 ‘and no through traffic will be allowed’. Once that is complete, the A52 Kingsley Road will be closed between May 26 and June 21. From June 22 Leek Road from the Cellarhead junction going north in the direction of Wetley Rocks will be shut until August 14.
Councillor Patrick Allen, cabinet support member for highways at the county council, said: “This is a vital scheme for the Staffordshire Moorlands and part of wider improvements taking place across the county. The Cellarhead junction and A520 Leek Road is a busy route and these improvements will make a huge difference for residents and those who travel through the area. Since starting, crews have already completed various kerbing works, installed new drainage channels and cleared several footways. Following this, they will then move on to drainage and ironwork repairs which require road closures to complete safely. Crews continue to do everything in their power to get the work done as quickly and safely as possible and we’re grateful for people’s co-operation.”
In response to the works businesses in the area have given customers tips on just how to reach them. Here’s what they have to say:
Caroline’s Pets
“Unfortunately the A520 is closed between Cellarhead traffic lights and Dalecrete for the next four weeks. Signage at Weston Coyney lights confirms that businesses are still open and access is allowed, please drive around the ‘road closed’ signs (at the Weston Coyney end). We are still accessible via Winterfield Lane.
“Luckily the horrendous potholes over Park Hall banks have recently been repaired and so this offers an alternative route from Weston Coyney should you wish to avoid the busier lanes. To access us from Cellarhead traffic lights, please head down Ash Bank and use either Salters Lane or Clough Lane to pick up Hulme Lane and then Hulme Road to bring you up into the village.
“We know that it might take you a little longer to get to us, but we’re hoping that it won’t put you off entirely. We thank you in advance for your patience, understanding and support”
Shukers Farm Shop
“We’ve been out and about this morning checking the routes ourselves so we can give you the most accurate information. The road is closed just after Dalecrete.
“But don’t worry — we are open and fully accessible. If you’re coming from Weston Coyney Even though the signs say the road is closed, please drive around the signs!
“Access to us is open and completely fine. If you’re coming from Leek, Cheadle or Werrington, there is no through‑route via Cellarhead crossroads.
“The crossroads are open in three directions and running on three‑way traffic lights, but you cannot pass straight through towards us.
“Fastest alternative routes
– From Cheadle:
Your quickest route is via Forsbrook or Dillhorne.
– From Leek / Werrington:
The quickest way is via Winterfield or Salters Lane.
“Please take care — these lanes are already getting busy and some stretches are single track. A more relaxed option You can also reach us via Park Hall. It’s a little further out of the way, but it’s a more driver‑friendly route if you’d prefer to avoid the narrow lanes.
“Please note – we are at the end of the phone if you need any additional help reaching us, our staff are on hand and happy to help – 01782 303472.”
Animal Lifeline
The rehoming charity put a post on it Facebook page confirming access was granted to its site. Correspondence from the local authority states: “Animal Lifeline drivers will be expected to comply with site rules, including adhering to the 15mph speed limit to ensure the safety of both drivers and the workforce. Amey Highways will provide a safe route through the site to your premises. Due to the nature of the works, staff and drivers may be required to follow specific instructions as works progress.”
Mantra Indian Restaurant and Bar is also open as usual with updates on its Facebook page.
Bolton Gate Cafe
A post on the business’ Facebook page states: “Lot’s of questions regarding the upcoming road closure, please be advised that Bolton Gate Cafe will be open as usual.
“We’ve had confirmation that the road will be closed on the A520 Leek Road, south of Cellarhead crossroads, meaning access will still be available as normal from the Weston Coyney side with diversions in place through Werrington. There will be a 24-hour closure in place at this point.
“If you are coming to us from the Leek side, we recommend allowing for a longer journey time and following the advised diversion route. Please see map provided (below).”
“Thank you for your continued support!”
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