New Chester Road Review
We asked
In response to public feedback, Wirral Council launched a review of the New Chester Road active travel scheme, introduced in 2020 to improve safety and connectivity between New Ferry and Birkenhead. The scheme added light segregation units (‘orcas’) to protect cyclists along the existing cycle lane. As part of the review, we asked road users to share their views on whether the current layout should remain, be removed, or be adjusted. This feedback, alongside traffic and safety data and national design guidance, will inform future decisions by the Environment, Climate Emergency and Transport Committee. The scheme also forms part of Route 11 in the proposed Core Active Travel Network (CATN), a longer-term vision for improving key routes across Wirral.
You said
196 people responded to the consultation. While a majority supported the council’s broader goals for encouraging walking and cycling, views on the current layout of New Chester Road were mixed. Around 41% of respondents wanted no changes, 32% preferred reverting to the pre-2020 layout, and 27% supported making adjustments. Concerns included underuse of the cycle lanes, traffic congestion, and safety issues with the orca separators. Suggestions for improvement included replacing or removing the orcas, enhancing protection for cyclists, and addressing parking in cycle lanes. Many respondents also highlighted the importance of balancing active travel improvements with the needs of all road users.
We did
At 09/07/2025 - Environment, Climate Emergency and Transport Committee meeting, it was agreed that amendments would be made to the design of New Chester Road.
