NORTHWICH will keep its subway after an overwhelming vote from the public.

More than 500 people took part in a consultation about the fate of the underpass beneath Chesterway with 86 per cent wanting to keep it rather than spend £500,000 filling it in.

Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC) suggested filling it in as part of work to landscape the area around the new Memorial Court.

CWAC will now work with Northwich Town Council to investigate suggestions made in consultation responses.

Clr Sam Naylor, CWAC councillor for Winnington and Castle, said: “I am delighted that common sense has prevailed, and that in these times of austerity, the people of Northwich do not want to see money spent unnecessarily on filling in a well-used subway.

“It is particularly pleasing that the consultation had such a large response, with more than 500 people making their views known.

“I look forward to seeing what suggestions for improvement come forward in the New Year.”

Online submissions to the consultation totalled 305, of which 242 wanted the subway to stay open and 55 voted to fill it in.

Paper questionnaires totalled 207 of which 192 opted to retain the subway and 10 said fill it in.

Clr Lynn Riley, CWAC's executive member for localities, said: “It’s great to see so many people choosing to get involved and sharing their views on the subway.

"It is by working together in this way that we shape a town centre that works for local people.

“Let’s hope that having both underground and overground options helps improve and increase access into the improving town centre and Memorial Court, which is soon to open.

“It is clear that the subway is valued by local people and we now need to keep working together on the little things that will improve it.

"I hope the supporters will keep thinking and let us know their suggestions.”

Northwich town mayor Clr Alison Gerrard said: “I welcome this decision, which shows just how many people use the subway on a daily basis.

“We are now looking forward to working with Cheshire West and Chester Council to improve this facility for the town.”