Major alterations to vehicle movement in Leeds City Centre are set to take place as construction work introduces a new 24-hour East Parade bus gate over the weekend of June 16-18. Starting from 5 am on Monday, June 19, the East Parade bus gate will only allow buses, emergency vehicles, bikes, and hackney carriages.
Motorists travelling from the Headrow or passing through the new bus gate north of South Parade will be in violation of traffic restrictions. Traffic enforcement cameras will be activated in the coming weeks, urging motorists to plan their journeys accordingly.
Simultaneously, Calverley Street will transition from one-way northbound to two-way access. This change means motorists travelling southbound on Calverley Street will no longer be able to access The Headrow. Pedestrians should exercise caution while approaching and crossing the affected roads due to the major shift in traffic flow.
These developments align with Leeds City Council’s plan to prioritise pedestrians and transform City Square into a people-first space by diverting general traffic away from the city centre. The ongoing work is part of the final phase to complete City Square highway changes by the end of August.
From 7 pm on Friday, June 16, lane and road closures will be implemented along East Parade, South Parade, Bedford Street, and Infirmary Street. In the last 24 hours leading up to the transition, additional closures will occur from 7 pm to 5 am, with bus and signed vehicle diversions in place. Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the process.
Starting on Tuesday, June 20, Yorkshire Water will commence deep sewer replacement works on Great George Street for a duration of five weeks. The coordination of all city centre works aims to minimize delays, with motorists urged to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys.
The City Square project began in September 2022, resulting in the initial closure of City Square through traffic. Subsequent works included the closure of the Quebec Street access and the conversion of King Street and Thirsk Row to two-way traffic. Presently, construction activities are underway at the junction of Aire Street and Wellington Street, as well as in front of the Queens Hotel pick-up and drop-off area south of City Square. Detailed information about the phased changes can be found on the project website.
Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council’s executive member for sustainable development and infrastructure, emphasised the council’s commitment to managing the highway network changes effectively while minimising disruptions. She thanked those who have adjusted their travel routes and methods, acknowledging their contribution to creating safer and more attractive spaces for walking and cycling.
Motorists are advised to plan their journeys in advance, considering alternative routes or modes of transportation. Those who must drive into the city centre should allow extra time and explore off-peak hours. Alternative routes can be found on the Leeds City Council website, and the council appreciates the public’s patience during this transformative phase.
