Rail chiefs have been forced into a rethink over plans to close Nantwich’s three level crossings in the run up to Christmas.
Network Rail wanted to close the London Road, Wellington Road and Shrewbridge Road crossings for several days in December.
But councillors and retailers were unhappy with the idea as it could have a major impact on shopping trade in the busiest period of the year.
They met with Network Rail who initially wanted the closures between December 1 and 14.
They wanted to shut London Road crossing for four days between December 10 and 14.
Before that they had planned to close Shrewbridge Road between December 1 and 7. And they wanted half day closures from 10pm to 7am on Wellington Road and London Road crossings between December 7 and 10.
“This is a very key time of the year for the town,” said a Nantwich Town Council spokesman.
“There is considerable concern this would put out the wrong message to people visiting, and the traffic problems the closures would cause.
“The message was put across that they had got this wrong. We have asked them to delay these works.”
A spokesman for Network Rail has confirmed they are reconsidering the schedule to see if it can be done in a “less disruptive way”.
“A meeting was held and local businesses were generally supportive of the work, the investment in the railway and the need for closures.
“However, they expressed their concerns about the timing of the closures in the run up to Christmas.”
They say the work is essential to improve the level crossing equipment and speed up the barrier movements, reducing waiting for motorists. New signals will also help cope with any increased train provision in the future.
It’s part of a £30 million investment along the Crewe to Shrewsbury line. Work is also scheduled for the crossing at Wrenbury.
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