Traffic signal controls on Chester's Fountains Roundabout will be removed following a trial this summer, alongside providing a new pedestrian crossing on St Oswald's Way.

This summer, Cheshire West and Chester Council launched a two-stage trial at the Fountains Roundabout, funded by a grant from Active Travel England. 

Phase one of the scheme saw the permanent traffic signals at the roundabout turned off to assess how the junction operated.

Two weeks later, in phase two a temporary pedestrian crossing was installed across St Oswald's Way. This was reviewed due to the number of pedestrians found to be crossing between traffic at this location and not wanting to use the subway.

Surveys were undertaken both before and during the trial to assess its impact.

During the trial period, an online survey was set up to obtain feedback from members of the public. A total of 3063 responses were received in 17 days. 

The junction was identified as a key walking and wheeling gateway to the city from the north, used by many residents and students that live locally.  

Due to the initial survey results and engineering observations, a decision was taken in July to leave the permanent traffic signals switched off. Over the last few months, engineers have worked with Active Travel England to review the trial results and feedback.

Key findings

• 120% increase in the number of people crossing the road once the temporary crossing was installed
• During one 24-hour period, 1924 people crossed the road utilising the temporary pedestrian crossing
• The number of people utilising the subway dropped during the trial by 29%
• The temporary traffic signal crossing experienced reliability issues during phase two

Key themes

• 90% agreed with keeping the permanent traffic signals switched off
• 84% of pedestrians agreed the trial had been beneficial for improving their journey
• 88% of car drivers agreed the trial was beneficial for improving their journey

"A permanent design is now being undertaken to build on the success of the trial by removing the traffic signal control on the roundabout and to provide a new permanent pedestrian crossing on St Oswald's Way," said deputy council leader, Cllr Karen Shore.

"Many thanks to everyone who gave their feedback this summer."

Temporary works will be undertaken in the coming weeks to remove unnecessary street furniture and to remove the temporary barriers from site. 

The permanent scheme is then expected to be delivered in Spring 2026.