Have your say in shaping the future of Congleton

Congleton Town Council is inviting residents to share their views on how the town’s Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding should be invested to improve local facilities.

The CIL is a charge collected from developers when new developments are constructed. In Cheshire East, the levy is collected by Cheshire East Council and passed on to the relevant town or parish council for reinvestment in the local community.

CIL monies can be used to support a wide range of local improvements, including play areas, open spaces, parks, cultural and sports facilities, and community safety initiatives.

To date, Congleton Town Council has received £21,684 in CIL funding. At the Annual Town Meeting in May 2025, town councillors discussed possible projects with residents and agreed on three priority proposals:

1. Pedestrian Safety Gates – Install gates on Bridge Street and Little Street to safeguard pedestrians and cyclists from vehicles during pedestrianised hours (10am–4pm).
2. Public Realm Improvements – Maintain and upgrade bins, benches, signage, and other street furniture across the town centre. These were originally installed by Cheshire East Council, who have since confirmed they will no longer maintain them.
3. Public Toilets – A contribution towards refurbishing the town centre public toilets (once legal transfer from Cheshire East has been achieved).

Congleton Town Mayor, Cllr Robert Brittain said: “This is a real opportunity for the people of Congleton to influence how money raised from local developments is reinvested back into our community. Each of the shortlisted projects will bring clear benefits, and your feedback will help us prioritise the improvements that matter most to residents. A small portion of the funding must be spent by June 2026, with the remainder required to be used by dates in 2027 and 2028. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey and have your say in shaping the future of our town.”

Residents are encouraged to play a part in the future of Congleton by taking part in the short survey to select their preferred option. The survey will remain open until 30 September 2025. To take part in the survey, visit: www.surveymonkey.com/r/VSZPPZL

For more information contact Congleton Information Centre on: 01260 270350 ext 1 or email: info@congleton-tc.gov.uk