WARRINGTON Walking Day returns for the first time in three years on Friday.
And a number of road closures will be place from 7.30am to make sure the event runs smoothly.
Schools, churches, community organisations and faith groups will come together on Friday and organisers are gearing up for the event.
The inner town centre will be closed to traffic from 7.30am until around 1pm. Vehicle access to Warrington town centre will be severely restricted during these times. Phased road closures will be strictly enforced.
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A spokesman said: "If you are expecting a delivery, you may wish to re-schedule, as access will not be granted at this time. Multi-storey car parks at Time Square and Golden Square will be accessible throughout the morning, though may be busier than usual due to the event and other areas being closed.
"We apologise for any inconvenience these closures may cause – they are in place for the safety of walkers and all road users."
Phase 1 – 7.30am
Closure of Sankey Street between Crosfield Street and Legh Street.
Closure of Winmarleigh Street between Sankey Street and Museum Street.
Phase 2 – 8am
Closure of remaining streets within the town centre, apart from those covered under Phase 3. Access to Time Square multi-storey car park will be maintained.
Phase 3 – 9am
Closure of Dial Street, Buttermarket Street, Academy Street.
Academy Way will remain open but will close for a minimum time to allow for the safe passage of the parade passing through.
In addition to this, there are four procession routes into the town centre. Phased road closures will be applied to allow for the safe passage of the churches into and out of the town centre, before and after the main walk.
Route 1 – 9am
Closure of Church Street.
Route 2 – 9am
Closure of the outbound section of Knutsford Road from Grange Avenue, Latchford to Bridge Foot and across Bridge Foot into Bridge Street.
Route 3 – 9.30am
Closure of Rhodes Street, Orford Lane, Pinners Brow, Tanners Lane, Midland Way, Legh Street and Bath Street.
Route 4 – 10am
Closure of Milner Street, Liverpool Road.
The procession route will not pass through Arpley Street this year.
The Mayor of Warrington, Cllr Jean Flaherty, said: “I’m so pleased that Walking Day is back this year. Having to cancel the last two events was disappointing as it is such an important day in Warrington’s calendar.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the town centre come alive with activity in what is sure to be an unforgettable day for our town.”
There is also the option to book seats in front of the Town Hall's golden gates for the event.
Seating is free and can be reserved in advance. Seats will be allocated on a first come, first served basis when booked online via Eventbrite.
Residnts are asked to take their seats from 9.45am and arrive no later than 10.25am.
