TRAFFIC barriers which have been used to support social distancing in Knutsford have been replaced with lower, less visually intrusive barriers.

The traffic barriers were installed by Cheshire East Council in the town centre, but have attracted criticism because of their impact on attracting shoppers to the town.

In addition town councillors have warned of the dangers posed by the barriers constantly falling over in strong winds as winter approaches.

The barriers were replaced last weekend by triangular red and white plastic water-filled barriers, which are lower than those they replaced.

Knutsford Town Council has been pushing for the barriers to be replaced by planters as a more attractive option.

Town clerk Adam Keppel-Green said: "The barriers needed taking down and replacing with something better.

"We are keen to have planters, which will look better. However the triangular barriers are better than the taller ones they replaced.

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"They are not going to fall over, will be harder to move, are much lower and a bit subtler visually."

A report to the town council's events committee said high winds caused the barriers to fall numerous times over the weekend of October 31 and November 1.