Starting next week, there will be a suspension of all non-essential roadworks in Chester city centre.

Running from 11.59pm on Sunday 16 November until 11.59pm on Sunday 4 January 2026, Cheshire West and Chester Council has again arranged a roadworks embargo for the Christmas period.

The suspension will cover Chester city centre, alongside Ellesmere Port, Frodsham, Neston, Northwich and Winsford town centres. 

Only urgent and emergency repairs will be granted permission to work on the road network in these areas.

Councillor Karen Shore outlined the 'significant increase' in both the number of vehicles and pedestrians in and around the borough's major shopping centres, in the run up to Christmas.

She added: "A roadworks embargo has worked well in previous years and will help visitors and shoppers access the borough's wonderful shopping and leisure facilities by keeping traffic running smoothly.

"Our streetworks team may, of course, need to grant permits for work on the road network during these dates if emergency repairs are needed to ensure the supply of vital utility services to homes and businesses."

An alternative form of travel into Chester is the city's park and ride service.

It costs just £2.50 per person with a variety of other ticket options available for groups and young people. 

On Thursday 20 November, late night extended hours begin for Christmas shopping and socialising, continuing every Thursday until Christmas.