A new scheme will be trialled next week to enhance movement for cyclists and pedestrians at the Fountains Roundabout in Chester.

Phase one of the scheme will commence from Monday 12 May.

It will see a controlled exercise turn off the existing traffic signals at the roundabout, to assess how the junction operates for all users.

Cheshire West and Chester Council's leader, Cllr Louise Gittins, said: "The traffic signals at Fountains Roundabout are approaching the end of their operational lifespan.

"Our Highways service has been looking into potential future options for the management of traffic and to support cyclists and pedestrians at the junction to find the best solution for all road users.

"The current signalised roundabout is a key junction in Chester's highway network and at peak periods, queues can form on the approaches causing delays to motorists.

"In addition, we are aware that many pedestrians choose to cross St Oswald's Way using gaps in the traffic, rather than using the subways."

Using funding from Active Travel England, the trail will explore options to improve the roundabout for both motorists and pedestrians.

The council's Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan identifies the junction as a key gateway to the city from the north, used by many residents and students that live locally.

The council wants to explore options to improve traffic flow, pedestrian safety and accessibility by providing crossing facilities on the roundabout itself, rather than just the current subways.

Phase two of the trial will begin on 27 May 2025.

This will involve installing temporary pedestrian crossings across St Oswald's Way to help pedestrians crossing the road.

The effectiveness of these temporary facilities will be reviewed.

Continuing until 7 July 2025, the temporary pedestrian facilities will then be removed and the permanent traffic signals will be switched back on. 

Cllr Gittins added: "We will be monitoring the impacts on traffic, as well as the use of the temporary crossing throughout the trials.

"Existing subways will be left unchanged.

"If the trial is a success, we will begin design work on a permanent solution which will also consider opportunities to improve wider walking routes to the new crossing from the University and Upper Northgate Street."