Ground investigations have officially commenced on the site of the planned Garden Village in Handforth.

The surveys, which are expected to take around eight weeks, will include land and drainage surveys, as well as taking ground samples. The findings will play a crucial role in informing the preliminary design of the scheme, which is scheduled to begin construction by September 2026.

During the investigation work, certain areas of the site will be cordoned off for safety, and temporary traffic management measures will be in place for short periods.

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Councillor Michael Gorman, chair of Cheshire East Council's economy and growth committee, said: "I would like to thank residents and those visiting the area for their patience while the surveys over the next few weeks take place.

"This is an important step towards delivering on our ambitions for the Garden Village site, which includes 1,500 new homes, new employment space, a village centre, extra care accommodation, a new school, a community hub and green space for the local community to enjoy.

"Significant progress to drive the scheme forward has been made over the last year, and an update on its delivery will be considered at the March meeting of the council’s economy and growth committee."

While the ground investigations are carried out, traffic management will impact the A34, access to Total Fitness, Long Mile Drive and Coppice Way. There will also be a one-day closure of the route to Tesco via dumbbell roundabout. Traffic will be diverted to the main roundabout. There will be no full road closures, lane closures or temporary signals in place.