New safety measures including a 20mph speed limit were "already underway" at Hoole Bridge before the death of cyclist Lee Stallwood, the council has said.

In the early hours of Thursday 21 May, Lee Stallwood died following a collision on Hoole Bridge involving a silver Toyota Yaris.

An inquest into his death was opened at Warrington Coroner's Court on Wednesday and adjourned pending criminal proceedings, with a provisional hearing listed for April next year.

Campaigners are now renewing calls for safety improvements at the bridge, highlighting a petition that has attracted over 4,000 signatures.

Originally launched in 2019 and recently revived at the request of Lee's family, the petition calls for measures including a 20mph speed limit, improved lighting, safer crossings and better protection for pedestrians and cyclists.

Led by Steve Howe, Marko Williams and Adam Dandy, the campaign says concerns about the safety of Hoole Bridge have been raised for many years, with residents and local representatives previously backing calls for improvements.

A spokesperson for Cheshire West and Chester Council has since confirmed that plans to reduce the speed limit on the A56 at Hoole Bridge to 20mph "were already underway" before the incident occurred.

Referring to the plans, they said: "The change forms part of a wider scheme to extend the existing 20mph limit recently installed outside St Martin's Academy on Hoole Road.

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"Cheshire West and Chester Council pass on thoughts and condolences to the family, friends, and everyone affected by this tragic incident.

"Road safety is extremely important and there is understandably concern within the local community.

"The Council continues to work with partners to make our roads safer and will provide further information when it is appropriate to do so."

MP for Chester North and Neston, Samantha Dixon, said she was "deeply saddened" to hear of the death of Lee Stallwood, stating the "tragedy" has brought "renewed focus to the long-standing concerns that local residents have raised about Hoole Bridge".

She added: "There is a strong feeling amongst people in Hoole and across Chester that the bridge's carriageway and walkways need to be widened to make them safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

"The safety of Hoole bridge is very important to me and the local community. I will continue to work hard to make this a safe place for pedestrians and cyclists."

She also acknowledged those behind the petition and Chester Critical Mass's tribute last weekend, as she referred to the "determination of local people to see meaningful change".

The MP added: "Above all, my thoughts remain with Mr Stallwood's family and loved ones at this difficult time."

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Detectives investigating the collision have since charged 32-year-old Nathan Howe, of Thorndale Road, Sunderland, with causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop after a road traffic collision, and failing to report an accident. He has been bailed to appear at Chester Crown Court on Friday 19 June..

A 35-year-old man, also from Sunderland, who was arrested in connection with the investigation, has been released on bail.