THE COMPANY that has won the £22million contract to ease congestion near the Parkgate Industrial Estate could take five years to finish the job.

Miller Developments said that the work, which will involve tunnelling under the railway line to create a new access road, would be phased.

But the company will not reveal its exact timetable.

"We hope to have it completed within five years," said director Nick Harris.

It is now two years since the company was awarded the contract.

On Monday Mr Harris said he would seek outline planning permission from Macclesfield Borough Council next year.

"You have to set the scene first," he said. "That will be followed quickly by more detailed plans."

The borough council agreed to release the land for development last month. Several companies already trading from the estate are keen to expand. International estate agents have advertised the site that will see a further 20 acres developed. Mr Harris said details of potential clients and their wishes had to remain confidential.

"We are being open-minded to occupiers' requirements," he said. "Interest has been adequate in the site, but the occupational market has not been strong anywhere recently." Residents and those who work on the industrial estate are hoping that the creation of a new access road will ease congestion in Parkgate Lane.

They have long complained about traffic queues during rush-hour.

This week, though, it was not clear at what stage the new tunnel leading out to Mobberley Road would be built.

In November, Anthony Jackson, who also bid for the contract, said he was astounded that work had not started on site. Miller Developments is a privately-owned company and built Portugal's first out-of-town shopping centre.

Mr Harris said the company would use all its experience to build a development suitable for Knutsford.

"We know how to deliver products that people want," he said.