FOI Request 2298

Subject: Inspection of Emergency Access Roads on New Developments

Status: Closed

Date received: February 2026

Question Asked:

We have some questions about emergency access roads in general, and a particular one in Congleton.

General:

1. Are you notified of any proposed emergency access roads in planning applications, so that you can comment on suitability?

2. If not, do you scrutinise planning applications to identify any proposed emergency access roads, in order to comment on their suitability of use? And do you intend to request notification from the relevant local authority?

3. Are you notified of completed emergency access roads so you are aware of new potential routes between your base and the development?

4. Do you inspect completed emergency access roads to ensure they are fit for purpose?

5. When locked barriers are in place to keep the traffic route free, are the keys kept in all emergency vehicles?

Specifically for the emergency access road between Falcon Drive and Howey Lane:

This road is incomplete, with unmade ground and a raised kerb between it and the adopted highway (Howey Lane). Additionally there are two pairs of locked bollards, where one at each location would be sufficient. So there are four bollards to unlock in an emergency instead of two, creating a delay that could be crucial.

1. Have you visited this site to assess the road and barriers as being fit for purpose?

2. If not, do you intend to? And when?

3. After assessment, if you consider remedial work necessary, will you ask or demand that the developer does this?

4. Will you publish your assessment? If so, where will it be published?

Our Response:

This Freedom of Information Request has been closed.

Outcome: Closed

FOI responded to within timescales: YES

Further action: NO